Brazil’s Supreme Court on Thursday sentenced former President Jair Bolsonaro to 27 years and three months in prison for plotting a coup after losing the 2022 presidential election. Bolsonaro, currently under house arrest in Brasilia, can still appeal the ruling.
Four of the five justices found Bolsonaro guilty on five counts: attempting a coup, participating in an armed criminal organization, attempting violent abolition of democratic rule, causing violence-related damage, and harming listed heritage. Justice Cármen Lúcia emphasised that the Attorney General’s evidence clearly showed Bolsonaro led an organisation orchestrating “every possible move to maintain or seize power.”
Additionally, his co-conspirators, all former officials, received sentences for their roles in the plot.
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Chief Justice Luís Roberto Barroso called the trial a “watershed moment in Brazil’s history.” Bolsonaro becomes the first former Brazilian president convicted of attempting a coup. Observers say the ruling could deepen political divisions, as many citizens remain loyal to the far-right politician.
Supporters protested last week in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, his eldest son, called the conviction a “supreme persecution,” adding that history would eventually vindicate them.
The ruling also drew criticism abroad. Former U.S. President Donald Trump called Bolsonaro “outstanding” and expressed his displeasure over the conviction. Furthermore, Senator Marco Rubio said the U.S. would respond to what he described as a “witch hunt.”
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Previously, in July, the Trump administration had imposed a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports, citing the legal actions against Bolsonaro as justification.
Bolsonaro’s legal team is expected to appeal, and the case continues to spark debates over Brazil’s democratic institutions and the resilience of its electoral system.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
