Brazilian Police Charge Jair Bolsonaro with Coup Plotting
Brazilian police have officially charged former President Jair Bolsonaro with plotting a coup to prevent the transfer of power to current President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva following the 2022 elections. The Federal Police's investigation revealed that Bolsonaro, along with 36 other individuals, was involved in a coordinated effort to undermine Brazil's democratic system. This alleged conspiracy, described as a 'criminal organization,' aimed to maintain Bolsonaro's presidency through violent means.
The police's final report, submitted to the Supreme Court, recommends serious charges against Bolsonaro, including violent overthrow of the democratic system, attempted coup, and forming a criminal organization, which could lead to prison sentences of up to 12 years. Key figures from Bolsonaro's administration, such as former General Augusto Heleno, former Defense Minister Braga Neto, and former intelligence chief Alexander Ramagem, are also implicated in the investigation.
The police outlined that the plot involved various groups, including one dedicated to spreading disinformation and another focused on inciting military action to facilitate a coup. Bolsonaro has vehemently denied the allegations, labeling them as politically motivated and claiming that the judge overseeing the case has overstepped his authority. He has vowed to contest the charges in court.
As the Brazilian Attorney General's Office reviews the evidence to determine whether to file formal charges, the political climate in Brazil remains tense, particularly following the January 2023 storming of government headquarters in Brasilia by Bolsonaro's supporters.
