Luciano Hang prohibited from making political speeches at Havan

A Brazilian labor court has prohibited businessman Luciano Hang from making or disseminating political speeches during events, meetings, or through the institutional channels of his retail chain, Havan. The injunction, issued by Judge Glenda Maria Coelho Ribeiro of the 14th Labor Court of Goiânia, follows a civil public action filed by the Public Ministry of Labor (MPT).

The legal action stems from a speech Hang delivered during the inauguration of a Havan unit in Caldas Novas, Goiás, where he criticized a proposal to end the ‘6x1’ work schedule, labeling it ‘electoral fraud.’ The MPT alleges this constituted electoral harassment and an abuse of corporate power by linking political choices to potential employment consequences.

Under the ruling, Havan faces a fine of R$ 50,000 per violating event or publication. The company is also required to post visible notices in all branches until October 26, 2026, clarifying that employees and contractors are free to form political convictions and vote without fear of professional sanctions. Additionally, the court mandated that employees be granted sufficient time to vote during the 2026 elections without loss of pay. The MPT is seeking R$ 30 million in collective moral damages.