The trial of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who is facing charges related to a coup attempt, is set to reach its conclusion on Tuesday. Bolsonaro is accused of orchestrating efforts to maintain power after his election loss in 2022, which led to his supporters storming and damaging government buildings in Brasília on January 8, 2023. A panel of five Supreme Court judges is scheduled to deliver a verdict by September 12.
Bolsonaro has consistently denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the charges are politically motivated. The trial has garnered attention internationally, with U.S. President Donald Trump labeling it a “witch-hunt” and using it as justification for imposing tariffs on certain Brazilian goods and sanctioning the Supreme Court judge overseeing the case. If convicted, Bolsonaro could face over 40 years in prison.
He and seven co-defendants are charged with multiple counts related to the coup attempt, including leading an armed criminal organization and attempting to violently dismantle the democratic rule of law. The accusations stem from investigations that date back to as early as 2019, suggesting planning for actions that would undermine democracy. Additionally, authorities allege Bolsonaro had knowledge of a plot to assassinate then-president-elect Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and others.
Evidence cited includes alleged communications between conspirators and meetings held at the presidential residence. Reports indicate that Bolsonaro proposed a coup plan in December 2022 to military commanders, which some refused. Bolsonaro’s followers, frustrated with military leaders for not participating, reportedly targeted them on social media.
Following a narrow defeat in the 2022 election, Bolsonaro’s supporters initiated protests and roadblocks across Brazil. In the aftermath of the election, Bolsonaro questioned the integrity of the electoral system and did not concede. Currently, he is under house arrest and faces travel restrictions. Courts will initiate the proceedings at 09:00 local time, where the opening statements and charges will be presented before the judges deliberate on the case. An appeal to the full Supreme Court is possible if a guilty verdict is reached.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gzgq9n8xjo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss