Jair Bolsonaro Charged with Plotting to Overthrow Brazilian Government
Jair Bolsonaro has been charged with plotting to overthrow the Brazilian government after his electoral loss in 2022. Allegations include leading an armed conspiracy and assassination attempts against rivals.
Former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro was charged Tuesday evening with leading an extensive plot to overthrow the Brazilian government following his 2022 electoral loss. This charge comes two years after thousands of his supporters attacked Brazil's federal government in protest of the election results that Bolsonaro claimed were fraudulent.
The country’s attorney general accused Bolsonaro and 33 others of attempting to abolish the state, destroy public property, and participate in an armed criminal organization. This case follows a federal police investigation detailing a conspiracy to undermine democracy, assassinate political rivals, and maintain power through military force.
In 2023, Bolsonaro was banned from running for office for at least eight years and is likely to face trial before the Brazilian Supreme Court. The charging document obtained by The Washington Post outlined a criminal organization led by Bolsonaro aimed at establishing an authoritarian regime.
Despite the serious allegations, no arrest warrant has been issued for Bolsonaro. He has denied the charges and claims to be a victim of political prosecution. Other individuals charged alongside him include his former vice-presidential candidate and defense secretary, Walter Braga Netto, and his security chief, Augusto Heleno.
Authorities highlighted a stark contrast between the Brazilian investigation and the 2021 insurrection in the United States, where former President Donald Trump faced no significant repercussions. The investigation into Bolsonaro began as early as 2021, when he initiated a campaign against the electoral system’s legitimacy.
The plot included plans to poison Lula and assassinate key political figures. However, the conspiracy failed due to a lack of support from crucial members of the armed forces. If convicted, Bolsonaro could face decades in prison and is expected to go to trial later this year.
