Brazil Supreme Court Approves Probe Into Lula’s Son Over Health Ministry Lobbying Claims

Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Andre Mendonca has authorized federal police to investigate Fabio Luis Lula da Silva, the son of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, over allegations that he improperly assisted a lobbyist in dealings with Brazil’s Health Ministry, according to two sources familiar with the decision.

The investigation centers on claims that Fabio Luis, widely known as "Lulinha," may have engaged in influence peddling and corruption on behalf of lobbyist Antonio Carlos Camilo Antunes. Federal police requested authorization last week to open the inquiry, citing suspicions that Lulinha used his connections to facilitate access to senior Health Ministry officials.

One key focus of the investigation is whether Fabio Luis helped Antunes’ companies gain favorable access during discussions involving a government agreement tied to a cannabidiol-based medication. Authorities are examining whether any improper influence was used in connection with the potential deal.

As of now, the investigation has not been formally launched, according to a federal police source, despite receiving judicial authorization to proceed.

Lawyers representing Fabio Luis Lula da Silva did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Representatives for Antonio Carlos Camilo Antunes were also unavailable for comment.

The latest development follows another decision by Justice Mendonca earlier this year, when he approved a separate federal police investigation into Fabio Luis over allegations that he received improper payments connected to a scheme involving unauthorized deductions from pensions managed by Brazil’s National Social Security Institute (INSS). That case also reportedly involves Antunes.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva previously addressed the allegations involving his son during a February interview with Brazilian news outlet UOL. Lula said he had spoken directly with Fabio Luis about the INSS investigation and stressed that the legal process should take its course.

"If you’ve done something wrong, you’ll pay the price for it. If you haven’t, defend yourself," the Brazilian president said, emphasizing that his son should face the consequences if any wrongdoing is proven.