Brazil’s former president Jair Bolsonaro appeared before the Supreme Court for the first time on Tuesday, denying participation in an alleged plot to remain in power and overturn the 2022 election result. The charges carry decades-long prison sentences.
Bolsonaro, who lost the 2022 presidential election to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, was questioned by a panel of judges alongside seven allies over allegations they devised a scheme to keep him in office. The far-right politician denied any involvement, saying there was “never any talk of a coup” and that Brazil couldn’t go through an experience like that.
The defendants are standing trial on five counts, including attempting to stage a coup and aggravating damage to heritage. A coup conviction carries a sentence of up to 12 years, while a conviction on other charges could bring decades behind bars.
Bolsonaro’s questioning lasted just over two hours, during which he joked with Justice Alexandre de Moraes, whose planned killing was part of the alleged plot. The former president has repeatedly denied the allegations and claimed he is the target of political persecution.
The trial is significant, as it marks the first time accused coup plotters are being subjected to a criminal trial in Brazil’s history. Experts say it shows the country’s democratic maturity in using due process to investigate such accusations and hold those responsible accountable.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/brazil-bolsonaro-trial-coup-578007b7e4444827be57d2bda2fff663