# The Struggle to Reform Brazil's Supreme Court Conrado Hübner Mendes analyzes the institutional crisis and the urgent need for judicial integrity. - **Source:** [Folha – Poder](https://www1.folha.uol.com.br/poder) - **Published:** 2026-11-11 - **Topic:** [politics](https://brifing.si/c/politics) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/1815219b-f192-44fe-9dd3-eb8186b90ee1 ## Institutional Crisis at STF The Brazilian Supreme Court faces a critical moment of self-reckoning regarding its internal integrity. Observers in Brasília debate whether the current push for change stems from genuine civic indignation or political myopia. The court is currently struggling to address serious allegations of corruption that threaten its fundamental institutional and legal credibility. ## The Magistocratic Vorcariado The term 'vorcariado magistocrático' describes a group of judges allegedly involved in unethical relationships with private interests, specifically linked to Banco Master. These individuals reportedly rely on threats and bargaining to maintain their positions. Their continued presence within the court is described as a persistent wound that undermines the judiciary's overall legitimacy. ## Constitutional Enforcement Gaps The current Brazilian Constitution lacks the necessary mechanisms to effectively investigate and punish half of the Supreme Court's members. The situation is further complicated by the fact that the Prosecutor General of the Republic is allegedly part of the same social circles, sharing private flights and leisure activities with the accused justices. ## The Role of Appointments Future judicial appointments are seen as a vital path toward restoring the court's moral compass. The author argues for naming jurists who prioritize public service over personal gain or partisan favoritism. Intellectual rigor and a clear understanding of the boundary between public and private interests are essential for any future candidates. ## Lula's Diversity Commitment President Lula faces pressure to honor his commitments to diversity by appointing women and Black jurists to the Supreme Court. Critics argue that current appointments have often favored an oligarchical confraternity rather than individuals with independent reputations. This shift is viewed as necessary to move away from a culture of adulation. ## Gender Dynamics in Plenary The current plenary has been criticized for its treatment of female justices like Cármen Lúcia and Rosa Weber. Observers note a pattern of condescension and frequent interruptions that reflect broader gender hierarchies. This environment creates a barrier to inclusive deliberation and undermines the court's ability to function as a truly representative body. ## The Reform Dilemma Public debate regarding structural reform remains superficial, often seeking a 'golden remedy' that does not exist. Potential solutions such as term limits, adjustment of competencies, or prohibitions on conflicts of interest require a systematic approach. There is a significant risk that reforms could become 'gattopardist,' changing everything so that nothing changes. ## Path Toward Future Reform There is no quick fix for the systemic pathologies currently affecting the Supreme Court. The author proposes categorizing future reforms into four distinct areas: engineering, architecture, watchmaking, and alchemy. Establishing a clear roadmap is essential to prevent the current power structures from returning even more empowered after the public scrutiny fades. ## Sources covering this story - https://redir.folha.com.br/redir/online/poder/rss091/*https://www1.folha.uol.com.br/colunas/conrado-hubner-mendes/2026/11/a-luta-do-vorcariado-contra-o-stf.shtml — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._