Novo Party Seeks to Annul Lula and Alckmin's Candidacies Over Alleged Election Irregularities

Brazil's Superior Electoral Court (TSE) is set to review a lawsuit filed by the Novo Party seeking the annulment of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Vice President Geraldo Alckmin's candidacies. The party alleges economic power abuse and improper use of media, focusing on a carnival parade by the Acadêmicos de Niterói samba school that allegedly honored Lula and was financed with public resources.

The Novo Party, which supports presidential candidate Romeu Zema, claims the parade functioned as electoral promotion, funded by at least R$ 9.65 million from public sources. These funds reportedly came from the municipalities of Niterói and Rio de Janeiro, the state government, and the Brazilian Tourism Institute (Embratur). The party argues that the financial mechanisms for these transfers were formalized after the parade's theme was announced.

As evidence of electoral intent, the lawsuit points to references to government programs, criticisms of political opponents, and the broadcast of the event on television and digital platforms. The parade also included a segment critical of former President Jair Bolsonaro's family and conservative groups, which reportedly caused indignation among evangelical communities. Acadêmicos de Niterói was subsequently relegated in the carnival competition.

The lawsuit is classified as a Judicial Electoral Investigation Action (AIJE), a legal instrument designed to examine conduct that could compromise election integrity. The case's rapporteur, Minister Antonio Carlos Ferreira, will now analyze the petition. If the process advances, Lula and Alckmin could face ineligibility for eight years. The President's team has been contacted for comment.