Supreme Court confronts Bolsonaro: Prosecutor seeks coup conviction
Bolsonaro Faces Up to 40‑Year Sentence for Failed Coup Plot
Evidence presented to Brazil’s Supreme Court on Tuesday alleged that former president Jair Bolsonaro and seven others conspired to overturn the 2022 election won by left‑wing President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
Key Charges
- Armed Criminal Association – Bolsonaro allegedly engaged in a violent plan to destabilize the democratic order.
- Seven co‑defendants accused of attempting to overthrow the government.
Potential Consequences
If the prosecution’s claims are upheld, Bolsonaro and his collaborators could face a sentence of up to 40 years in prison. The case now goes to Justice Alexandre de Moraes.
Bolsonaro’s Response
- Claims he is a victim of political persecution.
- States the military failed to support his coup attempt, leading to the violent unrest in Brasília.
Trump’s Involvement
- Former U.S. President Donald Trump has called the trial a “witch hunt” and urged Brazilian authorities to halt proceedings.
- After re‑entering the U.S. presidency in 2024, Trump warned of political retaliation if Brazil opposed his tariffs.
- He repeatedly insisted Bolsonaro is being treated unfairly and praised him as a “good man.”
Lula has criticized Trump’s interference, asserting that no one is above the law.
