Brazil’s Supreme Court convicted Jair Bolsonaro of plotting a coup to stay in power after losing the 2022 election.
Three of five justices found him guilty on five counts, with one justice yet to vote.
Justice Cármen Lúcia ruled for conviction Thursday, after Justice Luiz Fux voted to acquit the ex-president.
The panel will decide Bolsonaro’s sentence after all votes, potentially imposing decades in prison.
The 70-year-old former leader remains under house arrest for violating a ban on political messaging.
Political Tensions Rise Domestically and Abroad
The ruling deepens Brazil’s political divide and may trigger a backlash from the United States government.
Donald Trump called Bolsonaro’s trial a “witch hunt” and tied Brazilian tariffs to the former president’s legal case.
Observers warn Washington could impose additional sanctions, further straining U.S.-Brazil relations.
Justice Alexandre de Moraes accused Bolsonaro of leading a criminal organization and orchestrating a coup plot.
Bolsonaro Retains Influence Despite Legal Challenges
Bolsonaro did not attend the hearing, sending lawyers to defend him and pledging to appeal to the full Supreme Court.
Supporters rallied in the streets demanding acquittal, while opponents praised the court’s verdict.
Despite a ban blocking him from office until 2030, Bolsonaro continues to wield political power.
He may designate a political heir to challenge President Lula da Silva next year.
Allied lawmakers and his three sons could push Congress to secure amnesty or reduce his sentence.
