Brazil's former president Bolsonaro found guilty of plotting coup
Original story by
BBC News•Sep 11•Politics
📰 Article Summary
Jair Bolsonaro, the former president of Brazil, has been found guilty by Brazil's Supreme Court of plotting a military coup following his 2022 election loss. The court ruled that Bolsonaro led a conspiracy to retain power, which culminated in the storming of government buildings by his supporters on January 8, 2023. Justice Cármen Lúcia emphasized that Bolsonaro's actions triggered the insurgency, and he faces severe penalties potentially exceeding 40 years in prison. Despite his claims of innocence and assertions that the trial is politically motivated, sentencing is set for Friday, and there are possibilities of appeal by his legal team.
📌 Key Facts
- Guilty Verdict: Bolsonaro was found guilty of leading a conspiracy to conduct a military coup to stay in power after losing the 2022 election, with the Supreme Court's majority ruling citing five charges against him.
- Insurgency and Storming: The charges relate to the storming of government buildings by Bolsonaro's supporters on January 8, 2023, which was characterized by the justices as a violent attempt to overturn the democratic process.
- Potential Sentencing: The former president may face prison sentences totaling over 40 years for his actions, with sentencing scheduled for Friday following the court's decision.
- Political Allegations: Bolsonaro and his supporters have labeled the trial a 'witch hunt', claiming it to be driven by political motives, despite the substantial evidence presented against him.
- Awaiting Final Vote: The final verdict from the last sitting justice, Cristiano Zanin, will be crucial as it could influence the decision on whether Bolsonaro's case moves to the full Supreme Court for further review.
📂 Article Classification
Topic Tags: Brazil
📍 Location
Brasília, Brazil
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