Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has been sentenced to 27 years and three months in prison by Brazil’s Supreme Court.
He was found guilty of orchestrating an attempted coup to overturn the results of the 2022 presidential election, which saw Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva ascend to the presidency.
This landmark decision marks the first time in Brazil’s political history that a former president has been tried and convicted for actions aimed at undermining the country’s democracy, notes The Guardian.
The trial, conducted before a panel of five judges, resulted in a majority of four votes in favor of Bolsonaro’s conviction, while one judge voted for his acquittal.
The charges against him included leading an armed criminal organization, attempting to dissolve democratic institutions, and inciting violence to overthrow the elected government.
Among the co-defendants were members of his government, including his running mate and Defense Minister, as well as high-ranking military officials, according to AP News.
This conviction follows the events of January 8, 2023, when Bolsonaro supporters stormed government buildings in Brasília, seeking to overthrow newly inaugurated President Lula in his second term.
The riots resulted in significant property damage and over 1,400 arrests. Investigations revealed these actions were part of a broader conspiracy involving military and government members to nullify the presidential election results.
Currently under house arrest, Bolsonaro has the option to appeal the decision.
His lawyers might also request continued house arrest due to his reportedly fragile health condition, according to The Guardian.
Despite his conviction, he remains an influential figure in Brazilian politics, and his supporters continue to denounce what they view as political persecution.
Calls for amnesty are circulating within certain political circles, although the possibility of such a measure remains uncertain.
This case represents a major turning point for Brazilian democracy, demonstrating the judiciary’s willingness to hold leaders accountable for their actions, regardless of their status or popularity.
It also sends a strong message against impunity and in support of fundamental democratic principles.
