ELECTORAL JUSTICE AND THE ABUSE OF POWER

THE CASE OF RORAIMA AND CONTEMPORARY CORONELISMO

Abstract

The study analyzes the role of the Electoral Justice in combating the abuse of political and economic power in Brazil, focusing on the trial that led to the removal of the governor of Roraima. This case is emblematic as it highlights how abusive practices, rooted in the legacy of coronelismo and contemporary “cabresto voting,” undermine electoral equality and perpetuate control over the electorate in vulnerable regions, particularly those marked by socioeconomic fragilities. The article aims to assess the effectiveness of the Electoral Justice in curbing such abuses and to verify whether its actions ensure fair and equitable elections. To this end, the study adopts a methodology based on document analysis and bibliographic review, covering legislation, judicial decisions, and specialized literature. The case of Roraima serves as a basis to examine the challenges faced by the Electoral Justice in specific contexts of vulnerability. The results indicate that, despite advances such as the introduction of electronic voting machines, which have increased electoral security, significant challenges remain. Procedural delays and the sophistication of abusive practices pose barriers to agile and effective responses by the Electoral Justice. The article concludes that institutional improvements, such as limiting delaying tactics and enhancing oversight mechanisms, are necessary to strengthen democracy. These measures are essential for the Electoral Justice to respond more effectively to abuses that threaten equal conditions in the electoral process.