Brazil’s former President Jair Bolsonaro was charged on Tuesday for allegedly plotting to overturn his 2022 election defeat. The indictment adds to the far-right leader’s legal troubles, further complicating his political future.
Prosecutor General Paulo Gonet accused Bolsonaro and his former running mate, General Walter Braga Netto, of leading a “criminal organization” aimed at disrupting Brazil’s democratic order. A total of 34 individuals, including former military officials, were also charged.
According to court documents, the alleged plot sought to prevent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva from taking office, with discussions reportedly including plans to poison Lula. Prosecutors claim that Bolsonaro’s allies outlined a plan to seize control of key government institutions, with one document stating, “Lula does not climb the (presidential palace) ramp.”
The case follows a two-year investigation into Bolsonaro’s role in election-related unrest, including the January 2023 riots in Brasília.
Bolsonaro has denied any wrongdoing, calling the charges politically motivated. His defense team has two weeks to respond before Brazil’s Supreme Court decides whether to proceed with the case.
If convicted, Bolsonaro could face a prison sentence ranging from 12 to 40 years. Legal experts believe the Supreme Court is likely to accept the charges but will require substantial evidence for a conviction.
Bolsonaro is already barred from running in the 2026 presidential election due to previous court rulings. His latest indictment raises further uncertainty about his future in Brazilian politics.
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