In a significant move, Starlink, the satellite-based internet service founded by Elon Musk, announced on Tuesday that it will comply with a Brazilian Supreme Court justice's order to block access to the social media platform X within Brazil. This decision comes despite a recent freeze on the company's assets by Justice Alexandre de Moraes.
Starlink initially indicated to the Brazilian telecommunications regulator that it might not adhere to the court's directive unless measures were reversed. However, the company has now stated, \"Regardless of the illegal treatment of Starlink in freezing our assets, we are complying with the order to block access to X in Brazil.\" It also mentioned that it would continue to explore all legal options, aligning with others who believe the order violates the Brazilian constitution.
Justice Moraes had frozen Starlink's accounts last week to pressure the company into covering fines that X had already accumulated, totaling over $3 million. The rationale was that Starlink and X are part of the same economic group. Following Starlink's appeal, Moraes ordered the suspension of X for failing to appoint a local legal representative—a requirement deemed essential for the swift execution of court decisions, including account takedowns.
The blockade on X was unanimously upheld by a Supreme Court panel on Monday. X has been at odds with Moraes over the platform's hesitancy to block certain users, predominantly far-right activists accused of destabilizing Brazilian democracy and supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro. Additionally, X has suggested that Moraes' insistence on a local legal representative is a tactic to exert undue influence over the company, potentially leading to the arrest of such representatives.
Amidst these developments, Elon Musk has been vocally critical of Justice Moraes, referring to him as a \"criminal\" and an \"evil tyrant\" on the platform, including a post with Moraes' photo approximately 17 hours before Starlink confirmed its compliance with the court order. Since the announcement, Musk has refrained from discussing Starlink's operations in Brazil.
This unfolding situation underscores the ongoing challenges tech companies face when navigating legal and regulatory landscapes in different jurisdictions. As Starlink continues its legal battle, the implications for global digital communication and regulatory compliance remain to be seen.
Reference(s):
Starlink says will comply with judge's order to block X in Brazil
cgtn.com
