Divided Brazil: The Impact of Jair Bolsonaro's Coup Trial

Tue Oct 21 2025 13:31:08 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

As Brazil braces for the verdict in Jair Bolsonaro's coup trial, the nation's divide deepens with passionate rallies marking Independence Day. The legal battle has sparked widespread debate over democracy and national identity amidst contrasting demonstrations in support of and against the former president.

On Brazil's Independence Day, rival rallies unfolded as the country anticipates a verdict in the coup trial of former President Jair Bolsonaro. The upcoming decision by Supreme Court justices will address accusations against Bolsonaro, including orchestrating a coup following his election loss. With stark divisions evident, this trial could be pivotal in shaping Brazil's democratic future and its political landscape.

Brazil celebrated its Independence Day on September 7 amid an atmosphere charged with political tension, as the nation looked forward to the verdict in the coup trial of former President Jair Bolsonaro. Typically marked by patriotism and celebration, this year's festivities saw a significant shift with rallies split between supporters of Bolsonaro and his opponents.

Thousands rallied in the streets, chanting slogans that highlighted the deep divide within Brazilian society; some sought to defend democracy, while others rallied in support of Bolsonaro, who faces accusations of attempting to subvert it after losing the 2022 election to leftist leader Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Supreme Court justices are poised to announce their verdicts regarding allegations of Bolsonaro's involvement in a coup plot, a situation that has kept the nation on edge. Accusations against the former president include proposing a coup to military leaders, being complicit in an alleged assassination plot against Lula and Justice Alexandre de Moraes, and inciting his supporters to assault government buildings on January 8, 2023, following his campaign to undermine the electoral process.

Bolsonaro vehemently denies these charges, labeling them as politically motivated—an assertion echoed by many of his supporters, including US President Donald Trump, who has criticized the legal proceedings as political persecution and imposed tariffs on Brazilian goods in response.

The swift polarization of sentiments has become more apparent as rallying points form between the two factions. In contrast to the Bolsonaro supporters, opponents are fiercely vocal against his actions, chanting slogans like no amnesty and dictatorship, never again, indicating a refusal to accept any leniency concerning those accused of instigating the January riots.

As tensions rise, observers voice concern that Bolsonaro's trial may extend the divisions within Brazil, igniting deeper discussions about democracy and the rule of law. Former civil servant Ricardo Cappelli argues that this trial symbolizes an important moment for Brazilian democracy, stating, Never have those behind a coup or attempted coup sat in the dock in Brazil.