Brazilian Supreme Court Weighs Criminal Trial for Jair Bolsonaro Over Alleged Coup Plot
The court's decision, expected soon, could lead to a trial against the former president for his alleged role in a failed plan to overturn the 2022 election results.
- The Brazilian Supreme Court is deliberating whether to open a criminal trial against Jair Bolsonaro and seven others for their alleged involvement in a coup plot after his 2022 election defeat.
- Prosecutors accuse Bolsonaro of leading a criminal organization that planned to discredit Brazil's electronic voting system and annul the election results.
- The alleged plan included drafting a decree for new elections and plotting assassinations of key figures, including President Lula, his vice president, and a Supreme Court judge.
- The coup attempt reportedly failed due to a lack of support from senior military officials, and Bolsonaro denies all charges, claiming political persecution.
- Security has been heightened in Brasília as the court deliberates, with a decision expected as early as March 25 or 26, potentially leading to sentences exceeding 40 years if Bolsonaro is convicted.