On Thursday, Minister Luis Roberto Barroso took over the presidency of the STF at a time of disagreement with Congress, which this week approved a law setting the timeframe for the demarcation of indigenous lands, which contradicts the Supreme Court’s decision.
Referring to Congress, Barroso highlighted institutional harmony and said there were no dominant forces.
His administration will also prosecute those involved in the January 8 coup attempt. Furthermore, the court can decide controversial cases, such as the issue of decriminalizing abortion up to the 12th week of pregnancy.
Luis Roberto Barroso defended democracy which, for him, had not succumbed to the attempted coup.
The inauguration was attended by President Lula, President of the Chamber Arthur Lira, President of the Senate Rodrigo Pacheco and many other authorities from the judicial, executive and legislative branches. The session also witnessed the participation of Maria Petania, who sang the national anthem.
Barroso defended that human rights are issues for all of humanity.
Barroso completes 10 years as Minister of the United Socialist Party this year. He was appointed by President Dilma Rousseff to the vacant position of Minister Iris Brito. In court, he was the rapporteur of important rulings, such as nursing homes and the protection of indigenous people from invasion of their lands.
The minister was born in Vassouras, southwest of Rio de Janeiro, and is a full professor at the State University of Rio de Janeiro (UERJ).
The term of office of the President of the STF is two years. Barroso also serves as president of the National Council of Justice. The minister replaces Rosa Weber, who retired this week. Edson Fachin now serves as Vice President of the Supreme Court.
