JBS
Michel Temer accused the former JBS SA chairman of  "a series of lies."
 
BRASILIA – President Michel Temer said he plans a lawsuit against Joesley Batista in response to accusations Batista made about Temer in a weekly magazine calledÉpoca.

In a news release, Temer’s office said, “… On Monday, civil and criminal proceedings will be filed against him. His lies will be proven, and due financial reparation will be sought for the damages he caused, not only to the Presidency of the Republic, but to Brazil.”

This latest development follows testimony from Joesley Batista who admitted in court documents to making illegal payments to Temer and former Presidents Dilma Rousseff and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Temer has denied any wrongdoing and vowed to fight the allegations against him while continuing to serve as president of Brazil.

In May, J&F Investimentos agreed to a plea bargain with federal prosecutor, which included paying a fine, while avoiding prosecution for bribery.