Bolsonaro supporters rally ahead of Brazil coup trial verdict

Supporters of former Brazilian President attend a rally in Sao Paulo, Brazil, 7 Sept., 2025.
Reuters

Thousands of supporters of former far-right Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro staged protests across several cities on Sunday, days ahead of the conclusion of his trial for allegedly plotting a coup after losing the 2022 presidential election.

Supporters of Jair Bolsonaro staged demonstrations across Brazil, waving national and U.S. flags in a show of solidarity as his trial for allegedly attempting a coup draws to a close.

Bolsonaro, who is currently under house arrest, is facing criminal charges for attempting to cling to power after losing his reelection bid to leftist leader Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

If convicted, the 70-year-old former army captain, who denies all accusations, could face years in prison as Brazil’s Supreme Court is set to deliver its verdict by Friday.

Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, the former president’s eldest son, told supporters at Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro that his father will confront the situation directly, “showing once again that he will not give up on Brazil.”

"What we call justice today is actually injustice," said 80-year-old Delorges Pavoni, who attended the demonstration in Brasilia, the country's capital, wearing a shirt that read "In 2026, I would only vote for Bolsonaro."

In contrast, critics gathered separately, demanding justice and calling for his conviction.

Meanwhile, Brazilian lawmakers are exploring a broad amnesty project covering all involved in the alleged coup, a move seen by some as a strategy for the 2026 election. Bolsonaro has expressed interest in running again once eligible.

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