The recent suspension of two judges from the Amazonas court by the National Justice Council (CNJ) has stirred significant controversy and raised questions about judicial integrity. Judge Jean Carlos Pimentel dos Santos, along with Judge Elci Simões, has been embroiled in allegations concerning irregularities involving nearly R$ 150 million linked to Eletrobras, the state-owned electric utility company.
On February 24, 2025, Federal Police (PF) agents, accompanied by CNJ officials, executed search and seizure orders at the judges' offices. The operation was prompted by allegations of misconduct after Eletrobras claimed the judges authorized documents allowing substantial withdrawals from the company.
Pimentel, who had been serving at the Comarca de Presidente Figueiredo since December 2024, issued a public statement defending his actions. He asserted his decisions were guided by higher court directives and suggested the CNJ's move to suspend him warrants broader reflection on judicial responsibilities and the impact of interference on existing legal processes.
Specifically addressing the claims made by Eletrobras, Pimentel highlighted key details surrounding the alleged financial loss of R$ 150 million. According to Pimentel, the entire sum was returned to the judicial account the morning after the disputed transfer, illustrating his prompt action contrary to Eletrobras's claims of significant misconduct. He noted, "The entirety of the amounts has returned to the judicial account..." He emphasized the utility’s acknowledgment of its own financial responsibilities associated with the case, showing discrepancies between the company's public statements and its internal assessments.
The CNJ justified the swift suspension of the judges by citing the rapid pace at which the case against Eletrobras was advancing, asserting it was inconsistent with the normal workflow of the judicial service. "The behavior of those involved causes serious damage to the image of the Judiciary of Amazonas, especially as it suggests possible violations of impartiality and equality..." remarked Minister Campbell Marques of the CNJ, underscoring the severity of the situation.
During the search operations, agents seized numerous documents and electronic devices for investigation, permanently blocking the judges' access to their offices. Since their suspension, both judges are barred from any contact with their respective judicial systems as the inquiry progresses.
Judge Elci Simões, who also faces allegations of having improperly expedited the Eletrobras case, has remained largely silent. His office bears the consequences of the CNJ's decision, with staff reporting the location was sealed following the searches. Pimentel, on his part, contends the actions taken by Eletrobras to utilize the CNJ for reversing established judicial decisions constitutes both maneuvering and pressure tactics against the integrity of the judiciary.
Implicated within the scandal is the execution of extrajudicial titles spearheaded by one Bruno Eduardo Thomé de Souza, who claims entitlement to Eletrobras credits dating back to 1966. This case, according to Eletrobras, is fraught with issues of legitimacy, as they contest the validity of the documents and the subsequent court decisions.
Commenting on his situation, Pimentel insisted on his adherence to judicial norms and practices, rejecting claims of impropriety. He firmly stated, "...I have acted in accordance with determinations from the higher court. This situation invites us to reflect on the limits and responsibilities inherent to the Brazilian judiciary." While the judges have been granted five days to respond to the allegations as part of the disciplinary complaint—currently under wraps—the public's perception of the judiciary continues to hang precariously.
The CNJ’s investigation is being closely followed, not only for its immediate impact on the involved judges but also for its broader implications for the integrity of Brazil's judicial system. The coming days will reveal the necessary steps as the judiciary strives to navigate the challenging waters of accountability and public trust.