Bolsonaro allegedly never deliberated about a coup plot, according to a close associate's testimony in Brazilian court.
In its second week, the Supreme Court of Brazil is holding trial proceedings against former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is accused of attempting to overturn the 2022 election results and orchestrating a criminal organization. If found guilty, he faces up to 40 years in prison and forfeiture of his political rights.
Prosecutors assert that Bolsonaro plotted to disrupt the victory of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, his main rival in the election. Current testimony in the trial includes that of Tarcisio de Freitas, Bolsonaro's former infrastructure minister, who stated he was unaware of any such plot. Freitas, who is now governor of the state of Sao Paulo, testified that Bolsonaro was in poor health and spirits following his election defeat.
Numerous witnesses have testified, including senior military officials, former ministers, law enforcement personnel, and intelligence agents. Notable among these is former army commander General Marco Antonio Freire Gomes, who revealed that a state of siege had been discussed as a means to justify military intervention following Lula's election victory.
The hearings are being presided over by Judge Alexandre de Moraes, who is reported to be a political adversary of Bolsonaro. apart from these charges, Bolsonaro has also been accused of being aware of a plot to assassinate Lula, his vice-president Geraldo Alckmin, and Moraes himself.
Bolsonaro denies any involvement in a coup attempt and claims to be a victim of political persecution. He was abroad at the time of a violent demonstration by his supporters, who stormed key government buildings to demand a military takeover following Lula's inauguration.
The trial is ongoing, with Bolsonaro and seven co-defendants due to be heard in a subsequent phase, a date for which has not yet been determined. If convicted, Bolsonaro could face a political and physical "death penalty."
© 2025 AFP
- The United States is closely following the trial of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, as the outcome could impact the country's political and legislative landscape, with potential repercussions for general news, health, crime, and justice.
- The trial in Brazil, concerning allegations of Bolsonaro attempting to overturn the 2022 election results and orchestrating a criminal organization, brings attention to the role of policy and legislation in war and conflicts, both domestically and internationally.
- As the Supreme Court of Brazil delves deeper into the trial proceedings, the general public in the United States is eager for updates on developments in the case, showing a continued fascination with Brazilian politics and its ramifications.
