PRF establishes new rules to prevent road closures during 2026 elections

The Brazilian Federal Highway Police (PRF), in coordination with the Superior Electoral Court (TSE) and the Ministry of Justice, has established new operational guidelines for the 2026 general elections. These rules aim to prevent undue obstacles to voter mobility during the first round on October 4 and the potential second round on October 25.

Under the new regulations, PRF patrols and inspections must not impede the movement of voters. Vehicle stops for administrative traffic infractions are restricted to situations involving a “concrete and imminent risk to life or physical integrity.” Any necessary road closures must be communicated in advance to the relevant Regional Electoral Court (TRE), including justifications and alternative routes, except in cases of flagrant crimes.

These measures follow controversial events during the 2022 elections, where PRF operations—specifically in the Northeast region—were criticized for impacting voter turnout. Former PRF Director-General Silvinei Vasques was convicted in 2025 for his role in activities intended to obstruct voters during the 2022 election cycle. The new guidelines also include provisions for the PRF to provide logistical support to the Electoral Justice system, such as transporting electronic voting machines.