A new seismic event has occurred on the Brazilian political scene: the country's former president Jair Bolsonaro will be tried on charges of attempting a coup. According to a report by Reuters, the Brazilian Supreme Court reviewed the charges brought by the prosecution during a session held on March 26 and unanimously decided to initiate a criminal case.
Historical process and Bolsonaro's involvement
Bolsonaro served as the president of Brazil from 2019 to 2023. After his main rival and vice president Lula da Silva won the election, Bolsonaro did not acknowledge his defeat but left office. He also expressed resistance to the election results, fueling anti-government sentiment among his supporters.
In early January 2023, Bolsonaro's supporters staged mass unrest in the Brazilian capital. Protesters attempted to seize government buildings, leading to a serious crisis in the country. Brazilian security forces were forced to suppress the protests. Bolsonaro, meanwhile, had gone to the United States, claiming he was receiving treatment there for an injury he sustained in 2018.
Officials and court decision
According to the Brazilian police, Bolsonaro was one of the key figures in planning and executing the coup. The charges against him include:
- Organizing a coup;
- Opposing the democratic process;
- Attempting to violently overthrow the government.
Alongside Bolsonaro, legal proceedings will also begin against more than 30 other individuals. Bolsonaro considers himself innocent and views the charges against him as political persecution.
Impact on Brazil's political future
In June 2023, the court banned Bolsonaro from participating in elections for eight years. If the charges against him are confirmed, he could face even harsher penalties. This process could destabilize Brazilian politics and have a serious impact on the country's political future.
This is not the first time a court case related to an attempted coup has occurred in Brazilian history, but this situation is being regarded as a serious test for the country's democratic traditions. The Supreme Court's decision and Bolsonaro's future actions could significantly influence the formation of the Brazilian political scene.
