Minister states that the country had a “success story” in avoiding a coup and praises Jorge Messias’ appointment to the STF
Minister Gilmar Mendes, from the STF (Supreme Federal Court), stated this Tuesday (25.Nov.2025) that the country is experiencing “a moment of normality” and demonstrated institutional vigor in the face of the extremist acts of January 8th. He made the statement in an interview with journalists during the Lide Brasil Itália Forum, in Rome.
According to him, the Democratic Rule of Law “it’s strong” and the institutions’ response is “a good example for the world”.
For Gilmar, Dean of the Court, the episodes of January 8, 2023 and subsequent developments revealed the maturity of the Brazilian democratic system. “For the first time, people responsible for attempted coups were taken to court and convicted. And this is the result”he declared. He also stated that recent news reflects “consequences of decisions” already taken by the Supreme Court when identifying those responsible in the coup investigation. The statement can be interpreted as a reference to that of the former president (PL).
The judge stated that the country presented an institutional performance that contrasts with historical episodes of instability in Latin America. “Brazil stood out for showing a great capacity for institutional resistance and resilience”he stated. “We could be telling the story of a coup, as traditionally happens in Latin America, but we are telling the story of a success, the story that institutions were able to prevent a coup d’état and brought us responsible to the courts.”
He reinforced that, in his assessment, the Brazilian legal system remains solid: “The Rule of Law, as you know, in Brazil is strong. We have punished those who try to corrupt the Rule of Law. This is a good example for the world. No one can deny that”.
Asked about going to the Supreme Court, Gilmar praised the Union’s attorney general.
He said that it is up to the Senate to conduct the hearing and evaluate the name, but highlighted the nominee’s performance on sensitive topics. “What I have said is that Jorge Messias has shown himself to be an extremely leading attorney general and extremely capable of dialoguing with institutions”he stated.
Upset with the appointment of Messias and not the senator (PSD-MG), the president of the Senate, (União Brasil-AP), stated on Monday (24.nov) that the name of the AGU will be analyzed by the Upper House “not the right time”.
