Musk challenges Brazil's order to block certain X accounts

Elon Musk is challenging a decision by a Supreme Court justice in Brazil who ordered his social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, to block certain accounts. Musk called for the judge's resignation, accusing him of betraying the constitution and people of Brazil. He criticized the judge, Alexandre de Moraes, for applying fines, threatening to arrest employees, and cutting off access to X in Brazil. Musk stated that X would lift all restrictions decided by Justice Moraes and would publish details of the order despite the judge's prohibition on doing so. Musk promised to legally challenge the order where possible.

 

In response, Brazil's solicitor general, Jorge Messias, criticized Musk's decision and called for the regulation of social media networks to prevent foreign platforms from violating Brazilian laws. X Corp stated that it had been "forced by court decisions" to block certain popular accounts in Brazil and was prohibited from giving details of the order or which judge issued it. The company said it was threatened with daily fines if it failed to comply.

 

Musk argued that the blocking order was unconstitutional and emphasized that the people of Brazil are entitled to freedom of speech, due process, and transparency from their own authorities. Justice Moraes, who is leading an investigation into an alleged coup attempt by former President Jair Bolsonaro, is known for being active in combating online misinformation in Brazil. The Supreme Court declined to comment on the matter.