Action was filed by lawyers Ângelo Ferraro and Miguel Novaes, who argued that the businessman committed personal attacks against the president by making statements that tarnished his image
The Court of Justice of Santa Catarina (TJ-SC) sentenced this Thursday (30) the businessman owner of the Havan store chain, to pay R$33,000 to the president (PT) for statements considered offensive made between 2019 and 2020. According to the decision, Hang’s public demonstrations and posts exceeded the limits of freedom of expression and harmed the president’s honor.
The action was filed by lawyers Ângelo Ferraro and Miguel Novaes, who argued that the businessman committed personal attacks against Lula by making statements that tarnished his image. The businessman has not yet commented on the case and may appeal the decision.
In 2023, the Court had rejected the request for compensation for moral damages, understanding that, as he was a public figure, the president would be subject to criticism. At the time, the court highlighted that “experiencing denunciations, accusations and harsh criticism is inherent to public life”. In the new decision, the TJ-SC reformed the previous understanding and recognized Lula’s right to reparation. “Even public figures have the right to the protection of their honor and image,” stated the ruling. The compensation set is R$33 thousand.
