BRASILIA, Brazil (AP) — The Supreme Court of Brazil is on the verge of delivering a pivotal ruling on former President Jair Bolsonaro, who faces accusations of plotting to undermine the nation's democratic framework following his electoral defeat in 2022.
Bolsonaro, representing the far-right, is charged with five counts, including conspiracy to orchestrate a coup after narrowly losing to current President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. A verdict is anticipated later this week, potentially resulting in severe prison sentences of many years if found guilty.
Throughout this legal process, Bolsonaro has consistently denied wrongdoing, labeling the proceedings as politically motivated. Demonstrations by his supporters took place outside his home in Brasilia, where many gathered to pray for him and voice criticisms of Alexandre de Moraes, the presiding Supreme Court justice.
Prosecutor-General Paulo Gonet presented evidence suggesting that Bolsonaro led a multifaceted effort to cling to power illegally, including fostering doubts about the country’s electronic voting system and allegedly inciting a riot on January 8, 2023, aimed at inciting military takeover.
Defense attorney Celso Vilardi urged justices to consider that while plans to suspend the election were discussed, no concrete actions were taken, asserting, “The planning is not the execution.”
Bolsonaro, akin to fellow populist figure Donald Trump, has framed his legal struggles as a “witch hunt,” gathering support from his base. Sunday saw large demonstrations from loyalists, who expressed hope for his acquittal.
The trial holds historical significance, marking the first instance of high-ranking military officials alongside a former president facing charges related to an attempted coup against a democratic government.
The five-judge panel is set to convene throughout the week, with each justice voting on Bolsonaro's fate. If convicted, various justices could recommend differing sentences, leading to an influential precedent in Brazil's political landscape.
Notably, Bolsonaro remains under house arrest and has been deemed a flight risk. His absence in court was attributed to health issues as he awaits a medical procedure. Observers highlight the trial's potential impact on Brazil-U.S. relations and broader political ramifications.
