Brazil’s STF Orders Immediate Suspension of Twitter Operations Nationwide

Brazil’s Federal Supreme Court has ordered the suspension of Twitter’s operations in Brazil after Elon Musk failed to appoint a legal representative. Compliance with court orders and fines is required to lift the suspension, and Apple and Google are directed to block the app.

Justice Alexandre de Moraes of Brazil's Federal Supreme Court has issued an order for the immediate suspension of Twitter's operations within the country. The decision follows Elon Musk's failure to designate a legal representative for the social media platform in Brazil within a 24-hour deadline set on August 29.

The Supreme Court emphasized the urgency, stating, 'STF summons Elon Musk and X to appoint a legal representative within 24 hours, under penalty of suspension of activities in Brazil.' Non-compliance would result in an immediate halt to the company's operations nationwide.

The suspension remains effective until Twitter complies with Court's judicial decisions and pays imposed fines. Key authorities, including the president of the National Telecommunications Agency, must enforce the suspension. Apple and Google are directed to block the app in their stores and on iOS and Android systems.

Justice Moraes indicated that despite ample opportunities to comply, Twitter has failed to adhere to court orders, demonstrating an intentional evasion of responsibility. A daily fine of BRL 50,000 is set for those attempting to circumvent the suspension through technological means.

(With inputs from agencies.)