Brazil’s Supreme Court has commenced proceedings to determine whether former President Jair Bolsonaro and several close associates will stand trial on charges related to an alleged coup attempt after his 2022 electoral defeat. The charges include participating in a coup, involvement in an armed criminal organization, and attempted violent abolition of the democratic rule of law.
Prosecutor-General Paulo Gonet asserts that Bolsonaro and his allies orchestrated a multi-step scheme to retain power at any cost, particularly after losing to current President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. The alleged plot encompassed plans to assassinate Lula and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, which were ultimately not executed due to a lack of military support.
The Supreme Court’s First Panel has rejected defense motions to annul plea bargains and has decided to keep the case within its jurisdiction. Justice Luiz Fux dissented, questioning the validity of the plea agreements and advocating for transferring the case to the full court.
Bolsonaro maintains his innocence, claiming political persecution. If the court accepts the charges, he could face a prison sentence extending over several decades.
Regardless of the outcome, the trial marks a critical moment for Brazil as it grapples with the aftermath of a turbulent election and ongoing political divisions. The case is likely to shape the nation’s political trajectory for years to come.