Parliamentary Inquiry Commission (Brazil)

A Parliamentary Inquiry Commission (Comissão Parlamentar de Inquérito - CPI) in Brazil is a temporary investigatory body formed within either the Chamber of Deputies (lower house) or the Senate (upper house), or jointly by both houses of the National Congress. CPIs are established to investigate matters of public relevance relating to the federal government, federal administration, or entities receiving federal funds. They are a critical oversight mechanism within the Brazilian political system.

Formation and Authority:

A CPI can be created upon the request of at least one-third of the members of the respective house (or, in the case of a joint CPI, one-third of the members of each house). The proposal must specify the subject matter to be investigated and the proposed duration of the investigation, which is typically 120 days, though it can be extended.

CPIs possess broad powers of investigation, including the authority to:

• Summon witnesses to testify under oath.
• Demand documents and information from government agencies, private companies, and individuals.
• Break banking and tax secrecy, subject to judicial authorization.
• Conduct inspections and inquiries.
• Request the assistance of experts.

Limitations:

Despite their broad investigative powers, CPIs are subject to certain limitations. They cannot:

• Order arrests, except in cases of flagrant crimes committed during the investigation.
• Make judicial decisions.
• Override judicial orders.
• Investigate matters that are solely the responsibility of state or municipal governments.

Outcomes and Impact:

Upon completion of its investigation, a CPI produces a final report outlining its findings and recommendations. These recommendations may include:

• Indictments of individuals for criminal offences.
• Recommendations for administrative sanctions.
• Proposals for legislative changes.

The CPI report is then submitted to the relevant authorities, such as the Public Prosecutor's Office (Ministério Público) or the relevant legislative committees, for further action. While CPI reports do not have the force of law, they can significantly influence public opinion, contribute to criminal investigations, and lead to policy changes. The impact of a CPI often depends on the public's reaction to its findings and the willingness of other governmental institutions to act on its recommendations.

Significance:

CPIs play a significant role in holding the government accountable and promoting transparency in Brazil. They provide a platform for exposing corruption, investigating wrongdoing, and bringing public attention to important issues. They are an essential component of Brazil's system of checks and balances, contributing to democratic governance and the rule of law.