Luciano Hang and Havan sued by MPT for alleged electoral harassment

The Labor Public Ministry (MPT) has filed a civil public action against businessman Luciano Hang and the retail chain Havan, seeking R$ 30 million in compensation for collective moral damages. The lawsuit, filed in Goiânia, alleges electoral harassment following a speech Hang delivered on August 29 during a store opening in Caldas Novas, Goiás.

During the event, Hang criticized the proposal to end the 6x1 work schedule, labeling it ‘electoral fraud.’ He suggested to newly hired employees that such a change would increase labor costs and reduce purchasing power, potentially forcing them to seek ‘sub-employment’ without formal protections. The MPT argues that the speech utilized the power asymmetry inherent in the employer-employee relationship to coerce workers by linking their political choices to their job stability.

In addition to the collective fine, the MPT is requesting individual compensation for affected employees amounting to at least 20 times their last salary. The ministry also seeks urgent measures, including a video retraction by Hang within 48 hours and guarantees that employees can vote on election days without salary deductions. Hang has denied the allegations, stating he was merely exercising his right to express an opinion and claiming he is being persecuted for his public positions.