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The First Chamber of the Supreme Court of Brazil sentenced former president Jair Bolsonaro to 27 years and three months in prison, accused of leading a coup attempt to remain in power after losing the 2022 elections to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
According to the agency EFE, this is an unprecedented ruling in Brazil's history, as it is the first time a former president has been sentenced for attempting a coup. Four out of the five judges on the panel found him guilty, along with seven of his allies—including former ministers and high-ranking military officers—of up to five crimes against democratic order.
A plan to "perpetuate itself in power"
"The central objective of the criminal organization was to ensure the permanence of Jair Messias Bolsonaro in power," stated Cristiano Zanin, president of the First Chamber. The reporting judge, Alexandre de Moraes, enumerated 13 acts of the scheme, which was conceived since 2021, and concluded that Bolsonaro instrumentalized the State to promote false narratives and foster social instability in order to justify a state of exception, according to EFE.
According to the investigation, the plot included threats against authorities, decrees to establish a dictatorial regime, and even a plan to assassinate Lula, his vice president Geraldo Alckmin, and De Moraes himself. The coup failed due to the refusal of the commanders of the Army and the Air Force.
The disturbances of January 8
The ruling also holds Bolsonaro responsible for encouraging the violent demonstrations on January 8, 2023, when thousands of supporters invaded and vandalized the offices of the Presidency, Congress, and the Federal Supreme Court in Brasília, in an attempt to incite a military intervention.
Military personnel among the condemned
The mentioned media reported that six of the eight sentenced individuals are military personnel, including former Navy Commander Almir Garnier and three reserve generals: Augusto Heleno, Paulo Sérgio Nogueira, and Walter Braga Netto, with sentences ranging from 19 to 26 years in prison.
Bolsonaro, a retired Army captain and under house arrest since last August, received the highest sentence.
Uncertain future
The sentence is not yet final and can be appealed. Bolsonaro is counting on an amnesty promoted by his party in Parliament, in addition to exerting pressure with international support. At 70 years old, he is also facing other investigations for obstruction of justice, dissemination of false news, and appropriation of jewelry from the state heritage.
In Brazil, the social reaction was uneven: muted celebrations in left-wing sectors and minor protests from Bolsonaro supporters, reflecting the political polarization that continues to define the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about Jair Bolsonaro's Conviction for Attempted Coup d'État
Why was Jair Bolsonaro convicted?
Jair Bolsonaro was sentenced to 27 years and three months in prison by the First Chamber of the Supreme Court of Brazil. The sentence is due to his involvement in a coup plot to remain in power after losing the 2022 elections to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. He was found guilty of leading a criminal organization that attempted to keep him in power.
What crimes are being charged against Bolsonaro and his allies?
Bolsonaro and seven of his allies have been found guilty of committing up to five crimes against democratic order. These crimes include threats to authorities, decrees to establish a dictatorial regime, and an alleged plan to assassinate political leaders such as Lula da Silva.
How did Brazil react to Bolsonaro's conviction?
The reaction in Brazil was uneven. While there were lukewarm celebrations in leftist sectors, bolsonarismo organized smaller protests. This reflects the political polarization that continues to characterize the country.
What is Bolsonaro's legal situation following the conviction?
The sentence against Bolsonaro is not yet final, and he has the option to appeal. He is under house arrest and faces other investigations for obstruction of justice, spreading false news, and misappropriation of state jewelry.
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