Brazil’s Supreme Court has ruled that former President Jair Bolsonaro must stand trial over an alleged plot to overturn the results of the 2022 presidential election. The unanimous decision places Bolsonaro at the center of a legal battle that could see him face decades behind bars if convicted.
Prosecutors accuse Bolsonaro of leading a conspiracy to prevent the peaceful transfer of power to his successor, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The charges include leading a criminal organization, attempting to overthrow democracy, and allegedly plotting violence against high-ranking officials, including President Lula, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes.
The ruling also implicates several of Bolsonaro’s former ministers and advisors, who are accused of organizing efforts to undermine democratic institutions. Investigators claim the group discussed extreme measures, including assassinations, to maintain Bolsonaro’s grip on power.
Bolsonaro has repeatedly denied the allegations, calling them politically motivated and an attempt to prevent his return to politics. His trial is expected to be lengthy, with the possibility of a 40-year prison sentence if found guilty. Already barred from running for office until 2030, a conviction could permanently end his political ambitions.
