Rapporteur of the case, Minister Flávio Dino, argues that the act represents a continuous crime for families who still seek information about their missing loved ones during the military dictatorship
The Federal Supreme Court () is in the process of making a historical decision by forming a majority to judge the validity of the amnesty law in cases of concealment of corpses. The central question is whether the concealment of corpse can be considered a crime that can be punishable, even after the promulgation of the 1979 Amnesty Law. This law extinguished punishment for political crimes committed between 1961 and 1979, but did not explicitly address The question of the missing whose bodies have never been found. The rapporteur of the case, minister, argues that the concealment of corpse must be punished, as it represents a continuous crime for families who still seek information about their missing loved ones during the military dictatorship.
In his defense, Minister Flávio Dino referred to the movie “I’m still here”, which illustrates the persistent pain of the family members of missing in the dictatorship. This movie, which competes for three Oscars, including best movie and best actress for. The decision of the Supreme Court may have significant implications in other similar cases in Brazilian justice, offering a new perspective on how to deal with past crimes.
The specific case in trial involves crimes committed during the Araguaia guerrilla, focusing on two military personnel, one of whom has passed away. The search is for the condemnation of the other military still alive. This judgment may pave the way for the revision of other emblematic cases, such as former federal deputy Rubens Paiva. The Attorney General’s Office is interested in unlocking the case to judge five involved in the disappearance and murder of the former deputy, a case that remains without definitive resolution.
The STF trial continues until next Friday, the 14th, and the final decision may establish an important precedent for cases of crimes committed during the military dictatorship. If the Supreme Court decides that the concealment of corpses is a continuous crime and therefore not covered by the amnesty law, this may open doors to new investigations and trials, offering a chance of justice to families still seeking answers. This decision has the potential to redefine the way Brazil deals with its past, promoting a fairer and more transparent reconciliation.
With information from Aline Becketty
*Report produced with the aid of AI
