Bolsonaro convicted by Supreme Court for coup plot

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro was convicted Thursday by a majority of the Supreme Court for attempting to remain in power through a coup after his election defeat in 2022.

This makes him the first former Brazilian president to be found guilty of attacks on democracy.

Judge Carmen Lúcia said there was ample evidence that Bolsonaro had acted with the aim of undermining democracy and institutions. Three judges convicted him of five crimes, including participation in an armed organization, attempting to violently overthrow democracy, inciting a coup, and destroying state property. One judge acquitted him, and one judge has yet to rule.

Bolsonaro, a former captain, has always shown sympathy for the military dictatorship (1964–1985). He faces up to 40 years in prison. The verdict comes at a time when Brazil's judiciary is taking decisive action against far-right attacks on democracy.

In addition to Bolsonaro, seven of his allies, including five officers, were also found guilty—a historic precedent.

(reuters, est)