The Coup Attempt Against Lula da Silva: A Closer Look
Interrogation of alleged coup conspirators related to Brazil's ex-president
Brasília - The Supreme Court of Brazil (STF) is currently trial-running eight alleged coup plotters, including former President Jair Bolsonaro. The Public Prosecutor's Office alleges that these individuals, including Bolsonaro, conspired to overthrow the government of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva following his inauguration on January 8, 2023, after Bolsonaro's impeachment. On that fateful day, supporters of Bolsonaro rampaged through Congress, the Supreme Court, and the presidential palace, although security forces eventually regained control of the district in Brasília hours later.
The accused coterie's role is alleged as central to the attempted coup against Brazil's democratic order, according to the Public Prosecutor's Office. The initial testimony came from Lieutenant Colonel Mauro Cid, Bolsonaro's former adjutant, a close confidant during his presidency, who is now cooperating with the justice system as a key witness. Other defendants include ex-ministers and high-ranking military officials. While Bolsonaro himself is expected to testify, the exact date remains unclear.
These defendants face a litany of charges, including attempted violent overthrow of the democratic order, attempted coup, participation in an armed criminal association, property damage, and damage to protected historical assets. The hearings will continue until June 13.
Background
Many key players involved in the bid to oust Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's government are former President Jair Bolsonaro and his associates, who planned to thwart Lula da Silva's inauguration and maintain Bolsonaro's power following his electoral defeat in October 2022 [1][2].
Central Characters
- Jair Bolsonaro: A formidable figure, Bolsonaro now stands accused of having a "direct and active" role in the coup attempt. He faces charges related to plotting a coup and could potentially face up to 43 years in prison [1][2].
- Seven Associates: These include high-level military and political figures, such as Army Lt. Col. Mauro Cid, a key witness [2].
Alleged Charges:
- Coup Plotting: Known as "Operation Green and Yellow Dagger," the plot involved plans to either assassinate or arrest President-elect Lula da Silva, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes [2].
- Plans for Assassination or Arrest: These sinister tactics were reportedly orchestrated via encrypted messages, including surveillance of Justice de Moraes [2].
- January 2023 Riots: The hearings also delve into the part played by Bolsonaro and his associates in the January 8, 2023, riots, where thousands of Bolsonaro supporters breached government buildings, inciting calls for a military coup [2].
This trial holds historical significance, as it marks the first time a former Brazilian head of state is being tried for attempting to overthrow the government [2].
- The coup attempt against Lula da Silva, a general news topic, is currently being addressed in war-and-conflicts and politics, due to the alleged coup plotters, including former President Jair Bolsonaro, facing charges related to violent overthrow of the democratic order.
- Crime-and-justice is also involved in this case, as the defendants, including Bolsonaro, are facing charges such as participation in an armed criminal association, property damage, and damage to protected historical assets.
