Brazil’s Supreme Court convicted Jair Bolsonaro for plotting a coup after losing the 2022 presidential election.
Three of five justices found the former president guilty on five charges; one justice has yet to vote.
Justice Cármen Lúcia sided with conviction Thursday, after Justice Luiz Fux voted to acquit him the day before.
The court will determine Bolsonaro’s sentence once all five votes are cast, potentially giving him decades in prison.
Political Tensions Escalate
The verdict is intensifying Brazil’s political divisions and could trigger a reaction from the United States.
Donald Trump called Bolsonaro’s trial a “witch hunt” and tied tariffs on Brazilian imports to his ally’s case.
Observers warn Washington may impose new sanctions, straining diplomatic relations already under pressure.
Justice Alexandre de Moraes said Bolsonaro led a coup conspiracy and headed a criminal organisation.
Bolsonaro Appeals and Maintains Influence
Bolsonaro remains under house arrest after violating a ban on political messaging in early August.
He sent lawyers to court instead of attending in person and denied all wrongdoing.
His legal team plans to appeal to the full 11-justice Supreme Court.
Supporters rallied in streets demanding acquittal, while opponents welcomed the court’s ruling.
Despite legal troubles and a ban preventing him from running until 2030, Bolsonaro retains strong political influence.
He may name an heir to challenge President Lula da Silva in next year’s election.
Allied lawmakers and his three sons might push Congress to seek amnesty and reduce his sentence.
