Brazil’s Supreme Court found former president Jair Bolsonaro guilty of attempting a coup to stay in power after losing the 2022 election.
Three of five justices on the panel convicted Bolsonaro on five counts, with one justice still pending a decision.
Justice Cármen Lúcia cast the latest vote for conviction on Thursday, following Justice Luiz Fux’s vote for acquittal the day before.
The court will announce Bolsonaro’s sentence once all justices have voted, and he could face decades in prison.
Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who ordered Bolsonaro under house arrest in August for violating political messaging bans, said Bolsonaro led a criminal network.
Bolsonaro’s legal team confirmed they will appeal the ruling to the full 11-member Supreme Court. The former president, 70, did not attend hearings in person.
Political Tensions Surge
The ruling has intensified Brazil’s political divide. Supporters of Bolsonaro protested in the streets, demanding immediate acquittal, while opponents celebrated the court’s accountability measures.
Observers warn the conviction could strain Brazil’s relations with the United States. Donald Trump previously called Bolsonaro’s trial a “witch hunt” and linked tariffs on Brazilian goods to the case. Analysts suggest Washington may impose further sanctions, worsening diplomatic tensions.
Bolsonaro’s conviction renews debates over Brazil’s political stability. His supporters claim judicial overreach, while critics argue the ruling upholds democratic norms and electoral integrity.
Bolsonaro’s Continuing Influence
Despite legal troubles, Bolsonaro remains a significant political figure. He retains influence over allied lawmakers and his three sons, all elected officials.
Previously, a separate ruling barred Bolsonaro from running for office until 2030. He is expected to designate a political heir to challenge President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in the next election.
The conviction may push Bolsonaro’s allies to lobby Congress for amnesty or a reduced sentence. Analysts note that such efforts could shift legislative priorities and impact Brazil’s political landscape.
Bolsonaro’s legal situation also highlights the far-right movement’s continued influence in Brazil. While facing criminal charges, he continues to command a loyal voter base and shape public debate on national security, economic policy, and cultural issues.
The Supreme Court trial and international attention underscore Brazil’s ongoing struggles with political polarization, the balance of powers, and the rule of law. Experts predict that Bolsonaro’s conviction will remain a defining factor in Brazilian politics for the coming years, influencing elections, public opinion, and the strategies of both his supporters and opponents.
