Brazil’s Supreme Court Convicts Bolsonaro for Coup Attempt
News September 12, 2025

Brazil’s Supreme Court Convicts Bolsonaro for Coup Attempt

Brazil’s Supreme Court has convicted former president Jair Bolsonaro for attempting to stage a coup to remain in power after losing the 2022 election to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The five-judge panel delivered a 4–1 ruling on Thursday, finding the 70-year-old guilty of leading an armed criminal organization with the aim of overturning the [...]The post Brazil’s Supreme Court Convicts Bolsonaro for Coup Attempt appeared first on The Tico Times | Costa Rica News | Travel | Real Estate.

Brazil's political landscape has been shaken as the Supreme Court convicted former President Jair Bolsonaro for attempting to orchestrate a coup following his defeat in the 2022 presidential election. The landmark ruling, delivered on Thursday, found the 70-year-old Bolsonaro guilty of leading an armed criminal organization with the objective of subverting the democratic process and retaining power.

The highly anticipated decision came from a five-judge panel, with a decisive 4-1 vote against the former president. The conviction marks a significant moment in Brazilian history, highlighting the fragility of democratic institutions and the potential for abuse of power.

The charges stem from Bolsonaro's actions and alleged orchestration in the aftermath of the election, which saw Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva emerge victorious. Prosecutors argued that Bolsonaro actively worked to undermine the electoral results, spreading misinformation and inciting unrest among his supporters. These actions, they claimed, were part of a deliberate plan to create chaos and ultimately prevent the transfer of power.

While the full details of the case remain under wraps, sources indicate that the prosecution presented evidence of Bolsonaro's involvement in planning and encouraging the January 8th riots in Brasilia. During the riots, Bolsonaro's supporters stormed government buildings, including the Supreme Court, Congress, and the presidential palace, causing widespread damage and demanding military intervention to overturn the election results.

The conviction raises serious questions about the future of Brazilian politics. Bolsonaro's supporters have already voiced their outrage, while others celebrate the ruling as a victory for democracy and the rule of law. The legal ramifications for Bolsonaro are still unfolding, with potential consequences including imprisonment and ineligibility to run for future office. The decision is expected to have a lasting impact on the country's political climate and could further polarize Brazilian society. Legal experts predict a lengthy appeals process, potentially prolonging the uncertainty surrounding Bolsonaro's future and the stability of Brazil's democracy.
Category: Politics