Tensions rise between Elon Musk, Brazil over social media regulation.
Tensions are rising between Elon Musk and Brazil after a Supreme Court judge initiated an inquiry into the billionaire’s actions on Twitter. The inquiry comes after Judge Alexandre de Moraes ordered accounts blocked on the platform despite Musk’s decision to reinstate them.
Brazil’s Attorney General Jorge Messias has called for urgent regulation of social media in the wake of the spat. Judge Moraes accused Elon Musk of “criminal instrumentalisation” of Twitter, as per reports.
The judge warned Twitter to adhere to court directives, including maintaining blocked accounts. Fines of $19,740 per day may be imposed if directives are not followed. However, specific accounts in question remain undisclosed.
Judge Moraes has led crackdowns on misinformation, ordering suspensions of influential Bolsonaro supporters. Responding to threats of fines and bans, Musk warned this could force Twitter’s shutdown in Brazil.
Meanwhile, Bolsonaro is also being investigated over an alleged coup attempt in the 2022 elections. The growing tensions come amid concerns over billionaire owners controlling social platforms from abroad.
Judge Moraes said laws cannot be disobeyed and threatened. Musk accused the judge of betraying the constitution as polarized views emerged on both sides in the ongoing legal battle.
