STJ minister accused of harassment discharged from hospital but remains away from the court
Marco Buzzi, a minister of the STJ in Brazil, has been discharged from the hospital after being treated for heart-related issues but continues to be away from his judicial duties due to accusations of sexual harassment.
Marco Buzzi, a minister of Brazil's Superior Court of Justice (STJ), has been discharged from the DF Star hospital where he was treated for heart palpitations and chest pain. The medical leave was originally covered by a doctor's note lasting 90 days, but his absence from the court stems from a confidential decision made by the court's plenary last week amidst serious allegations against him. Two women have accused him of sexual harassment, prompting an administrative inquiry within the STJ that could lead to his compulsory retirement.
Doctor Fabricio Silva confirmed that Buzzi's medical treatment was necessary, and a WhatsApp message from the minister himself indicated he was undergoing both cardiac and emotional monitoring. Although the hospital has not provided specific details about his discharge date, sources close to Buzzi suggest he has been home at least since last Friday and is receiving medical supervision at home. The situation has raised questions about the implications of such allegations against a high-ranking judicial official in Brazil.
The allegations against Buzzi are serious and could have wide-ranging repercussions, including a potential criminal investigation at the Supreme Federal Court (STF). As the inquiry progresses, the judicial system's integrity is at stake, and the public's trust may hinge on how these accusations are addressed. This case highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing misconduct within powerful institutions and may lead to further discussions regarding policies and safeguards related to judicial conduct in Brazil.