Brazil STJ suspends conviction, frees ex-Macaé mayor running for federal deputy

Brazil's Superior Court of Justice (STJ) suspended the conviction and ordered the release of Aluízio dos Santos Júnior, former mayor of Macaé, who is now a federal deputy candidate in Rio de Janeiro for the 2026 elections. The ruling reverses his prior legal status, potentially affecting his candidacy eligibility. The decision is notable for its timing ahead of the elections, but details on the legal grounds remain unclear.