Bolsonaro Faces Critical Supreme Court Ruling in Coup Plot Trial

Sat Sep 13 2025 12:29:38 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro awaits a verdict this week from a Supreme Court panel regarding allegations of plotting against democracy following his electoral defeat in 2022. The ruling could lead to severe penalties.

The Supreme Court in Brazil is set to decide whether Jair Bolsonaro, the former president, is guilty of attempting to overturn the country's democratic process following his 2022 electoral loss. The trial could result in decades of prison time, with prosecutors alleging a conspiracy to stage a coup that involved encouraging violent protests against the government. Bolsonaro maintains his innocence and claims the trial is politically motivated, while supporters continue to rally for him outside his home. A verdict is anticipated by the end of the week.

BRASILIA, Brazil — A pivotal week approaches for former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro as the Supreme Court prepares to decide his fate amid serious allegations of plotting to undermine democracy following his electoral defeat in 2022.

Bolsonaro, a far-right figure, faces five charges at trial, including conspiring to conduct a coup against the government of current President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The verdict could see him imprisoned for many years if found guilty.

Despite denying any wrongdoing, Bolsonaro has described the legal proceedings as politically motivated. Demonstrations in support of him have emerged, with loyalists gathering at his residence in Brasilia, praying and advocating for leniency from lawmakers.

Prosecutors allege that Bolsonaro spearheaded a plot that raised doubts about Brazil's electronic voting system and prompted a riot on January 8, 2023, which aimed to incite military intervention.

Prosecutor-General Paulo Gonet has brought forth evidence indicating that Bolsonaro held meetings with top military and cabinet officials to explore declaring an emergency to suspend the election results amidst claims of vote fraud.

Defense lawyer Celso Vilardi countered these claims, arguing that the decree never materialized and highlighting that planning does not equate to execution of a crime. He maintained that Bolsonaro had ordered a legitimate transition process.

The anticipation for the judgment reflects a significant moment in Brazilian history, as it marks the first instance a former president and senior military leaders are being tried for actions taken against democratic institutions.

The Court proceedings are set to continue this week, with a critical ruling expected Friday. A guilty verdict could carry a 12-year sentence solely for the coup plotting charges. Bolsonaro remains under close watch with an ankle monitor due to being deemed a flight risk.

This trial not only tests Bolsonaro’s political future but also shapes the ongoing relationship between Brazil and the United States, as sanctions may be considered depending on the outcome.