Brazilian Supreme Court Opens Historic Trial Against Jair Bolsonaro for Alleged Coup Plot

The former president faces charges of attempting a coup, violent abolition of democratic rule, and leading an armed criminal organization, with potential prison sentences exceeding 40 years.

The Brazilian Supreme Court unanimously voted on March 26, 2025, to open a criminal trial against Jair Bolsonaro and seven other key figures for their alleged roles in a conspiracy to overturn the 2022 election results.
Bolsonaro is accused of leading a criminal organization that planned a decree for new elections and the assassination of political figures, including President Lula, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes.
The charges against Bolsonaro include 'coup d'état,' 'attempted violent abolition of the democratic rule of law,' and 'armed criminal organization,' carrying potential sentences exceeding 40 years.
The trial, anticipated to proceed later this year, could extend Bolsonaro's current ineligibility to run for office until 2030, effectively ending his political comeback ambitions.
The case highlights Brazil's democratic fragility, with the January 8, 2023, riots in Brasilia cited as evidence of the conspiracy, though the alleged coup failed due to lack of military support.