Brazil’s Supreme Court sentenced former President Jair Bolsonaro to 27 years in prison for plotting to overthrow his successor, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The verdict, delivered on Thursday, concluded a landmark trial that has divided the nation and drawn criticism from the United States. Bolsonaro, a 70‑year‑old far‑right leader, was found guilty of conspiring against Lula after his electoral defeat in October 2022. Judges voted 4‑1 to convict, determining that the defendants had formed an armed criminal organization.
Bolsonaro’s defense team called the sentence “incredibly excessive” and announced plans to appeal, including at the international level. The trial captured the attention of many Brazilians, who watched the verdict unfold on their screens. It has created a deep wedge in Brazilian society: some view it as a vital test of the country’s democracy, while others see it as a political show trial.
The United States also criticized the proceedings. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the trial as a “witch hunt” and warned that the U.S. “will respond accordingly.” In response, Washington imposed tariffs and sanctions on Brazilian officials, sparking an unprecedented diplomatic crisis. Brazil’s government rejected the U.S. criticism, saying it will not be intimidated by “threats” from Washington. President Lula, now 79, has positioned himself as the guardian of Brazil’s sovereignty against alleged U.S. meddling, a stance that has boosted his popularity as he signals a bid for reelection next year.
Bolsonaro’s conviction marks him as the fourth former head of state to be sentenced since Brazil’s return to democracy in 1985, and it carries significant implications for the nation’s politics and international relations. While some Brazilians celebrate the verdict as a victory for democracy, others express outrage and disappointment. Bolsonaro’s allies have vowed to seek congressional support for an amnesty bill, suggesting that the political situation will remain volatile in the weeks and months ahead.
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