CPIs, or Parliamentary Commissions of Inquiry, are an investigative instrument used by the Legislative Branch to investigate facts that may affect public life. In other words, in addition to analyzing projects and creating new laws, the Legislative Branch is responsible for monitoring and investigating public administration , including the actions of the Executive Branch.
These instruments of oversight and control of public power are essential to maintain order and organization of democratic processes. This is because CPIs can result in changes to legislation and the punishment of public agents who have not respected the established constitutional norms.
These committees are formed by members of the Chamber of Deputies or the Federal Senate to fulfill a defined objective, in addition to acting with a validity period. These groups are generally formed as soon as some irregularity is observed in the political sphere, such as acts of corruption.
The opening of the CPIs
In order for a CPI to be established, a request for its opening, or slovenia mobile database application, must be made. This request must be signed by one third of the members of the corresponding Legislative House. If there are not enough signatures, the author may attempt to approve the CPI through consideration by the Plenary.
The request to open a CPI must contain a clear description of the fact to be investigated, or the specific fact, and a deadline for completing the activities. It is common for CPIs to last 120 days, and may be extended for up to 60 days beyond the agreed date.
Investigations are usually conducted by a chairman, a rapporteur and members appointed by the parties represented in the House. Members are usually appointed by the political parties themselves , always respecting the criterion of proportionality. Therefore, the more representatives occupy seats in the House, the more members the party will have on the committee.
There are also Joint Parliamentary Commissions of Inquiry (CPMIs), which are formed by deputies and senators. In addition, Legislative Assemblies and City Councils can also establish CPIs when a topic is proven to be of due relevance.
How do CPIs work?
The functioning of CPIs is governed by specific rules, which establish deadlines and procedures for carrying out investigations. In Brazil, CPIs are regulated by the Federal Constitution and also by the internal regulations of the Legislative Houses.
According to the Constitution, CPIs have investigative powers similar to those of judicial authorities, and can carry out investigations, hear people and request information and documents from public and private bodies.