This archive report was first published on 6 July 2019.
On June 19, 2019, Brazilian Justice Minister Sergio Moro appeared before the Senate, where he attempted to justify his involvement in the country's Operation Car Wash probe. In a confusing display, he simultaneously claimed that certain messages were authentic and that their content was legal, while also stating that he couldn't remember sending similar messages three years prior.
Leaked messages have revealed that Moro collaborated with prosecutors to prevent former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva from giving interviews from jail before the elections. This was seen as a way to help the Worker's Party candidate, Fernando Haddad.
The leaked messages have given defense lawyers new grounds to appeal convictions, with Lula da Silva's lawyers already adding the new evidence to their petition for a retrial. The Brazilian Bar Association has called for the suspension of those involved in the scandal, citing the need for a full and impartial investigation.
Despite the gravity of the situation, almost a month has passed since The Intercept's first reports, and no action has been taken. Moro remains Brazil's Justice Minister, leaving many to wonder where to turn when the anti-corruption crusaders are dirty.
