Brazilian opposition cries foul on privacy, freedom of expression and mentions political persecution

Members of the opposition in the Brazilian parliament have raised questions regarding the request from the Prosecutor General’s Office (PGR) for social media platforms to provide a comprehensive list of former President Jair Bolsonaro’s followers.

These lawmakers, including both deputies and senators, perceive the action initiated by Deputy Prosecutor General Carlos Frederico Santos as a political concern.

Deputy Paulo Bilynskyj (PL, right) has written to the Federal Public Ministry (MPF) seeking clarification on the reasons behind the PGR’s request, stating his disapproval of actions that may impinge on the rights of Brazilian citizens.

Senator Sergio Moro (União, center-right) expressed his view that the request, which requires full identification of Bolsonaro’s followers, is difficult to justify and potentially impractical, besides infringing on the privacy of millions.

The opposition leader, Rogério Marinho (PL) regarded the request as a potential threat to freedom of expression.

Meanwhile, Mauricio Marcon (Podemos,center) interpreted the request as a form of intimidation towards those not in support of the current government.

The PGR has requested a list of followers on all platforms where Bolsonaro maintains an official profile and details of posts pertaining to key political and electoral matters.

Justice Alexandre de Moraes of the Federal Supreme Court, who is often referred to as the Brazilian censorship czar, is currently reviewing the request made by the PGR

Bolsonaro has voiced concerns about potential impacts on freedom of thought and opinion.