The social media platform, X has been banned in Brazil after Elon Musk failed to comply with a Supreme Court order to appoint a legal representative in the country. The ban was validated after Elon Musk missed a 24-hour deadline set by Justice Alexandre de Moraes. Alexandre was the one who ordered immediate and complete suspension of the platform until it adhered to the directives of the court and paid existing fines.
Background
The tussle between the billionaire Elon Musk and the Brazilian authorities started in April 2024 when the Supreme Court made it mandatory to suspend many accounts on X for allegedly spreading misinformation.
This was part of a broader investigation into digital militias connected to the followers of former president Jair Bolsonaro. The tensions escalated after Elon Musk refused to comply with the court's orders, which included reinstating previously suspended accounts that led to the current situation.
Impact
As of August 31, 2024, millions of users in the country found they are unable to access X. The internet service providers implementing the decision of the court.
A considerable part of the Brazilian online population which includes over 22 million users of X, is affected by the ban.
Legal and Political Reactions
The ruling has been criticized by Elon Musk publicly, calling it as an attack on free speech and accusing the Brazilian judiciary of political bias. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the president of Brazil, has emphasized that all businesses operating in Brazil are required to abide by local rules, reiterating the idea that foreign firms cannot negotiate compliance.
@hivepulseImage source: Reuters