Coercion Charges Unraveled: Eduardo Bolsonaro Faces Legal Reckoning Amid Family Controversies

Tue Oct 21 2025 23:00:17 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Eduardo Bolsonaro, the son of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, has been formally charged with coercion. This legal action follows recent controversies surrounding his father's actions. Authorities allege his involvement in discrediting Brazil's interests abroad while he maintains innocence, citing political persecution.

Brazil's attorney general has charged Eduardo Bolsonaro with coercion, claiming he prioritized personal interests over the nation's welfare, amid a backdrop of heightened political tensions following his father's coup conviction and prison sentence. Eduardo has dismissed the accusations as politically motivated persecution while facing potential legal and financial repercussions.

Eduardo Bolsonaro, the son of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, has been formally charged with coercion by Brazil's chief prosecutor, an announcement that has resonated amid ongoing political turmoil. The attorney general's office alleges that Eduardo, a congressman, used his position to advance personal and family agendas at the expense of national interests, which may have exposed Brazil to sanctions from foreign governments.

Responding to the charges, Eduardo labeled them as bogus via social media, suggesting that accusing him of obstruction of justice is not only absurd but also indicative of political targeting. This turbulent legal saga follows closely on the heels of his father's recent conviction for plotting a coup, leading to a 27-year prison sentence.

Eduardo, who has been residing in the United States since earlier this year, claimed that he learned of the charges through the press, framing the timing as further evidence of his political persecution. In addition to his indictment, prosecutors are pursuing compensation for damages associated with the alleged criminal activities. The case has also implicated businessman Paulo Figueiredo, grandson of Brazil's former dictator.

Historically considered an ally of his father's presidential regime, Eduardo has been vocal in seeking support from US political circles, characterizing the legal struggles faced by his father as a witch hunt. The relationship between the two political figures has led to international tension, especially given actions such as US President Donald Trump applying tariffs on Brazilian goods. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has openly criticized these tariffs as misguided.

Amid these developments, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has promised further pressure on Brazil regarding the legal actions against the former president, with sanctions recently placed against a Supreme Court Justice's wife, which has been met with vehement opposition from the judiciary.

The tumult within Brazil continues to grow, with tens of thousands participating in protests against a bill perceived as offering amnesty to the former president, further complicating the nation's political landscape.