Lula banned from taking part in TV debate with presidential hopefuls

The ex-president has been arrested since April 7

Published on 16/08/2018 - 19:45 By André Richter - Brasília

Superior Electoral Court Justice Sérgio Banhos decided to reject the request filed by Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to participate in the debate to be held tomorrow (Aug. 17) on Rede TV with the presidential hopefuls campaigning ahead of the October elections.

In his ruling, the justice argues that Lula’s arrest is linked to criminal matters, which cannot be considered by the Electoral Court. The former leader was arrested on April 7 after being sentenced to 12 years and one month in jail.

Yesterday (15), Lula’s Workers Party (PT) registered his candidacy at the Superior Electoral Court, with former São Paulo Mayor Fernando Haddad as his running mate. The party believes that the candidate should be entitled to take part in the show.

Translation: Fabrício Ferreira -  Edition: Augusto Queiroz

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