Massive Protests Erupt in Brazil Against Potential Amnesty for Bolsonaro

Tue Oct 21 2025 23:00:16 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Tens of thousands of Brazilians rallied in opposition to a proposed bill that could grant amnesty to former President Jair Bolsonaro, following his sentencing for coup plotting.

In a demonstration of democratic spirit, tens of thousands of Brazilians took to the streets in cities across the nation to protest a controversial bill that could grant amnesty to ex-President Jair Bolsonaro, who recently received a 27-year prison sentence for plotting a coup. The protests were characterized by chants and placards denouncing Congress, rallying for justice and reflecting deep societal divisions over the ongoing political situation.

Tens of thousands of Brazilians joined protests in cities across the country on Sunday to oppose a bill that could lead to ex-President Jair Bolsonaro receiving amnesty.

Bolsonaro was found guilty of attempting a coup earlier this month and has been sentenced to 27 years in prison, though he remains under house arrest while his legal team explores further appeals.

Supporters in the Brazilian Congress have expedited a bill that could prevent Bolsonaro and his co-defendants from serving jail time. The protests also targeted a newly passed constitutional amendment that complicates legal actions against lawmakers.

Critics have labeled the law the Banditry Bill, yet supporters advocate it as a protection against alleged judicial overreach. Under the proposal, Congress members would need to endorse criminal charges in a secret ballot.

The protests received backing from trade unions, social groups, and various political party affiliates, with many participants chanting against amnesty and brandishing signs calling Congress shameless. Veteran musicians including Chico Buarque and Caetano Veloso performed at the Rio de Janeiro event, drawing significant crowds.

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed solidarity with the demonstrators, vowing to oppose the amnesty bill if it reaches the Senate.

These protests follow earlier demonstrations by Bolsonaro's supporters, highlighting the polarized political climate in Brazil amidst ongoing discussions of legal proceedings against the former president and his allies, tied to the violent January 8, 2023, storming of government institutions by Bolsonaro supporters.

A recent survey showed that a slim majority believe Bolsonaro should face imprisonment, reflecting the contentious divide within the country regarding justice, democracy, and accountability.