Brazilian ex-president Bolsonaro confronts historic court proceeding
The historic trial against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, accused of an alleged coup attempt, is entering its decisive final phase at the Supreme Court (STF). The trial, which began earlier this year, involves eight co-defendants, including high-ranking military officials, former cabinet members, and Bolsonaro's close associates.
Bolsonaro has been under house arrest since early August due to violations of conditions, and is being monitored around the clock due to his flight risk. The former president did not attend the trial due to health reasons.
The defendants are charged with up to five crimes, including attempted coup, participation in an armed criminal association, and damage to protected historical sites. Besides Bolsonaro, the accused include former Defense Minister Paulo Sérgio Nogueira, former Navy Chief Almir Garnier, Bolsonaro's former security advisor Augusto Heleno, and other high-ranking military officials and former cabinet members.
A conviction requires a majority of three votes from the five judges of the First Chamber. If convicted, Bolsonaro faces up to 43 years in prison, but a sentence of house arrest is possible due to his age and health issues.
The trial is still ongoing, with five sessions scheduled until September 12. If there are at least two dissenting votes, a review of individual issues can be requested again in the plenary session. Limited appeals are possible within the STF, such as in cases of formal uncertainties or non-unanimous verdicts.
US President Donald Trump, who is considered a close supporter of Bolsonaro, recently imposed tariffs of 50 percent on numerous Brazilian products in response to the prosecution of the former president. The verdict in this historic trial is expected to be delivered soon.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
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