Is the momentum of the Operation Car Wash waning in Brazil? What would be the implications if the country’s legislative arm can forestall or even turn back the achievements of the judicial branch in the fight against bribery and corruption, which is viewed as endemic in that country. That and other questions came to mind for The Man From FCPA when he saw recent reports that Brazilian legislative figures are trying to obstruct the ongoing corruption investigations.
Recently the Wall Street Journal reported a three pronged effort by Brazilian legislators to denude the ability of Brazilian prosecutors to move forward. One the tactical level, the Brazilian Senate’s security function is alleged to have removed wire taps from the homes and offices certain senators under investigation. On the broader level, Senate leader Renan Calherios has called prosecutors efforts an over-reach and accused them of grandstanding when announcing prosecutions.
