BRASILIA, Brazil (AP) — A panel of Supreme Court justices is set to decide this week whether former President Jair Bolsonaro is guilty of plotting to overthrow Brazil’s democracy following his electoral defeat in 2022.
The far-right ex-president faces five counts at trial for allegedly conspiring to stage a coup after his narrow loss to current President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. If convicted, Bolsonaro could be sentenced to decades in prison.
Bolsonaro has consistently denied any wrongdoing, labeling the trial a politically motivated attack. Supporters gathered outside his home, praying for him and advocating for some form of amnesty.
Prosecutor-General Paulo Gonet stated in court that Bolsonaro led a multipronged plot to cling to power, which included casting doubt on the electronic voting systems and inciting a January 8, 2023, riot intended to force a military takeover.
Evidence presented shows that Bolsonaro convened top Cabinet and military officials to discuss a possible emergency decree to suspend the election outcome to investigate alleged voter fraud.
Defense lawyer Celso Vilardi maintained that while there may have been discussions, no decree was ever issued, arguing that planning does not equate to execution of a crime.
Bolsonaro has denounced the trial as a witch hunt. His fate is also closely watched by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has linked trade tariffs on Brazil to Bolsonaro's legal troubles.
As the trial progresses, the coalition of prosecutors aims to hold Bolsonaro accountable, with others close to him also facing charges.
Regardless of the outcome, this trial marks a significant historical moment in Brazil, as it sees high-ranking officials and a former president facing accusations against democratic rule for the first time.
Analysts predict that any outcomes from the trial could further strain diplomatic relations with the United States, especially if sanctions are considered against Brazilian authorities.
