Alcolumbre: 109 Impeachment Requests Sit at the Senate
Brazil · JUSTICE
Key Facts
- —Senate President Davi Alcolumbre says 109 impeachment requests target the ten justices of the Supreme Federal Court.
- —Prosecutor-General’s Office Asked on 1 September 2026 for the investigation to be declared null, arguing the judge’s order was invalid.
- —Justice André Mendonça Criticized for requisitioning the inquiry without a request from prosecutors or police.
- —Senator Carlos Viana Filed an impeachment request against Justice Alexandre de Moraes on the same day.
- —Brazilian Bar Association Called for a rigorous investigation of the matter.
The Senate President’s remarks come as Brazil’s top court faces a wave of political pressure over a judge’s controversial order.
Brazil’s Senate President says 109 impeachment requests sit before the upper house, targeting the ten justices of the Supreme Federal Court. Davi Alcolumbre made the remark on 1 September 2026, responding to a new request against Justice Alexandre de Moraes.
Senate President Calls Volume Unusual
According to Alcolumbre, having 109 impeachment requests against the ten justices is not normal. He spoke after Senator Carlos Viana filed a request against Justice Alexandre de Moraes on the same day.
In Brazil, an impeachment request against a Supreme Court justice is filed with the Senate. The Senate President decides whether to put it on the agenda, which is why most requests never proceed.
Prosecutor-General Challenges Judge’s Order
The Prosecutor-General’s Office, known as the PGR, asked for the investigation to be declared null on 1 September 2026. It argued the judge’s order was invalid.
It is not for a judge to accuse, the filing said, still less to carry out pre-procedural investigations. The PGR also criticised Justice André Mendonça for requisitioning the inquiry without a request from the prosecution service or the police.
Therefore, the agency wants the whole procedure struck down.
Background of the Underlying Police Report
The underlying material is a Federal Police report concerning the banker Daniel Vorcaro. Its secrecy was lifted by Justice Mendonça.
Meanwhile, Mendonça sought a public plenary session of the Supreme Federal Court to examine mentions of Moraes and of Prosecutor-General Paulo Gonet. No date had been set for that session.
Role of the Prosecutor-General Clarified
Paulo Gonet is not presented in the retrieved reporting as a suspect. He is the prosecutor-general who challenged Mendonça’s move.
Still, one report notes the investigative material also mentions him. In addition, Gonet’s office has asked for the investigation to be declared null.
What Declaring an Investigation Null Means
A request to declare an investigation null asks a court to strike the whole procedure. The ground is that it was opened the wrong way.
If granted, evidence gathered under it can fall with it. As a result, the PGR’s request could have significant consequences.
However, the Supreme Federal Court has not yet ruled on the matter.
Bar Association Calls for Rigorous Inquiry
The Brazilian Bar Association, known as the OAB, called for a rigorous investigation of the matter. This adds another layer of scrutiny to the unfolding situation.
In short, the OAB wants a thorough look at the events. Meanwhile, the Senate President’s comments highlight the political tension surrounding the court.
Supreme Court’s Structure and Stakes
The Supreme Federal Court, the STF, is Brazil’s highest court. It has eleven seats, though only ten justices are currently targeted by the impeachment requests.
Because the Senate President decides whether to schedule a request, most never proceed. Even so, the sheer number of requests signals deep dissatisfaction.
Political Pressure Mounts on Justices
Senator Carlos Viana’s request against Justice Alexandre de Moraes adds to the pile. Alcolumbre’s response suggests he sees the volume as excessive.
While no justice has been charged or suspended, the impeachment requests remain a tool for political pressure. In fact, the Senate President’s remarks underscore the unusual nature of the situation.
Impeachment Requests and the Road Ahead
The 109 impeachment requests against the ten justices are now a central topic in Brasília. Alcolumbre’s statement that this is not normal sets the tone for debate.
Because the Senate President controls the agenda, most requests will likely stall. Nevertheless, the pressure on the court is unlikely to fade quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are impeachment requests in Brazil?
Impeachment requests are formal calls to remove a public official from office. Against Supreme Court justices, they are filed with the Senate, which decides whether to proceed.
Who decides whether an impeachment request moves forward?
The Senate President decides whether to put an impeachment request on the agenda. This is why most requests never proceed.
What did the Prosecutor-General’s Office ask for?
The PGR asked for the investigation to be declared null, arguing the judge’s order was invalid. It also criticised Justice Mendonça for requisitioning the inquiry without a request from prosecutors or police.
Is Justice Alexandre de Moraes facing charges?
No. Justice Moraes has not been charged, suspended or removed. Senator Carlos Viana filed an impeachment request, and Alcolumbre noted there are already 109 such requests before the Senate.
Connected Coverage
Sources: PGR filings; Brazilian Senate; OAB; Brazilian legal press.
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