The Tribunal Regional Eleitoral de Mato Grosso (TRE-MT) has scheduled a new election for its presidency and vice-presidency on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 9h. This decision comes on the heels of a unanimous ruling by the Tribunal Superior Eleitoral (TSE) that annulled a previous election held on April 29, 2025, which had elected desembargador Marcos Machado as president and re-elected desembargadora Serly Marcondes as vice-president and corregedora.
The recent developments in the TRE-MT have stirred considerable discussion among legal experts and political observers. The acting president, desembargador Mario Kono, signed an order on May 9, 2025, to change the format of the upcoming election from virtual to in-person, ensuring it takes place during a plenary session at the Tribunal in Cuiabá. This alteration, as per Portaria nº 184/2025, aligns with the TSE's directive to hold a new election.
In the April election, Marcos Machado was initially elected president, while Serly Marcondes was re-elected to her vice-presidency position. However, the TSE deemed this election illegal due to a violation of article 102 of the Lei Orgânica da Magistratura (Loman), which prohibits re-election for the same directorship position. The TSE's relator, ministra-corregedora Isabel Gallotti, emphasized that such legal restrictions are in place to prevent the perpetuation of power within the courts, noting that the limited number of desembargadores does not justify ignoring the law.
As a result of the TSE's decision, the new election will only involve the two incumbent desembargadores: Serly Marcondes, who can only run for the presidency, and Marcos Machado, who must contest the vice-presidency. The interim administration, led by Mario Kono as president and Lídio Modesto as vice-president and corregedor, will remain in place until the new leadership is officially elected for the 2025/2027 biennium.
The TSE's ruling has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters argue it reinforces the integrity of the electoral process, ensuring that leadership positions rotate fairly and legally. Critics, however, voice concerns that the decision may create instability within the court's administration, especially given the ongoing challenges faced by the TRE-MT in recent years.
Desembargadora Serly Marcondes, who initiated the request for the annulment of the previous election, stated, "The legal framework is clear, and we must adhere to it to maintain the credibility of our institutions." This sentiment echoes the broader calls for accountability and transparency within Brazil's electoral justice system.
The upcoming election will be closely watched, not only for its immediate implications for the TRE-MT but also for its potential impact on the broader political landscape in Mato Grosso and beyond. As the court prepares for this critical moment, the stakes are high, and the eyes of the public will be firmly fixed on the outcome.
In the lead-up to the election, the TRE-MT has emphasized the importance of a transparent and fair electoral process. The acting president, Mario Kono, remarked, "We are committed to ensuring that this election reflects the will of our court and upholds the principles of justice and democracy."
As the date approaches, both candidates are gearing up for what promises to be a competitive race. Serly Marcondes, with her experience and previous leadership role, is expected to draw significant support, while Marcos Machado will aim to leverage his previous election as a platform for his campaign.
The TRE-MT's decision to hold the election in person, rather than virtually, also underscores the court's commitment to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process. This shift is seen as a move to foster greater engagement among the court's members and ensure that all voices are heard during this pivotal moment.
In conclusion, the upcoming election for the TRE-MT presidency is not just a routine administrative procedure; it represents a crucial juncture for the court and the integrity of Brazil's electoral system. As the candidates prepare to face off, the implications of this election will resonate throughout the state's political landscape.
