The Regional Electoral Court of Rio de Janeiro (TRE-RJ) decided on Thursday, in a preliminary injunction, to prevent candidate Anthony Garotinho (Republicanos) from using the electoral fund, from having the right to free airtime on radio and TV, and from participating in electoral debates. The decision was in response to a request from the coalition of former mayor Eduardo Paes (PSD), which also requested the invalidation of the rival's candidacy.
Eduardo Paes commented on the decision on Friday, mocking the rival. The PSD candidate stated that "whoever is ineligible, is ineligible" and that "it's the law." Paes recalled that Garotinho was arrested five times and called him "five-time convict," saying he "stole once again."
Paes harshly criticized the adversary, classifying him as "the circus clown of Fluminense and Brazilian politics." The former mayor recalled that Garotinho was convicted of embezzling Health resources and stated that he is "a lost cause," saying he will have to "go home again crying and wiping his little diaper."
Garotinho can still appeal the decision made by TRE-RJ. The measure was granted in a preliminary injunction, meaning it takes effect temporarily before the final judgment.
