STF Justice Edson Fachin defends democratic rules ahead of Brazilian elections

Supreme Federal Court (STF) Justice Edson Fachin emphasized the necessity of respecting institutional rules and judicial decisions during a seminar on the role of constitutional courts. Speaking in a context of political polarization, Fachin stated that democracy requires loyalty to the rules of the game and the preservation of institutional control mechanisms.

Fachin warned that democratic erosion does not always occur through abrupt coups but can happen progressively through the gradual capture of institutions, the weakening of oversight mechanisms, and the loss of public trust. He noted that judicial decisions are often reduced to political slogans, which can compromise public understanding of the judiciary's role.

These remarks come four days before the second round of the 2026 presidential election, scheduled for Sunday, October 25. The election will determine the next president of Brazil, as well as governors in five states and the Federal District.