Brazilian Ex-President Jair Bolsonaro Indicted for Attempted Coup
Introduction
Brazilian authorities have charged former President Jair Bolsonaro with attempting to overthrow the government after his electoral defeat. The indictment, filed by Brazil’s Attorney General’s Office, follows a lengthy investigation by the country’s Federal Police. Bolsonaro has consistently denied the allegations against him.
Charges and Accusations
In addition to the former president, charges have been brought against 33 other individuals. The Supreme Court is responsible for reviewing the charges and determining whether to proceed with a formal prosecution.
The prosecution alleges that Bolsonaro conspired with his allies in a criminal organization to stage a coup in order to remain in power after losing the October 2022 presidential election to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. On January 8, 2023, Bolsonaro’s supporters, refusing to accept Lula’s victory, stormed the National Congress, presidential palace, and Supreme Court in the capital city of Brasília, causing significant damage.
Conspiracy Allegations
The investigation team believes that Bolsonaro’s plan involved forming a criminal association with his allies to overthrow the government. They allege that specific groups were created with designated roles, including one responsible for spreading disinformation and attacking the electoral system, and another aimed at inciting the military to support the coup plot.
Key Co-Conspirators
Alongside the former president, other individuals allegedly involved in the conspiracy include former general and head of the President’s Office for Institutional Security, Augusto Heleno; ex-Defense Minister Braga Netto; and former head of Brazil’s intelligence agency, Alexandre Ramagem. They face charges of attempting to violently abolish the democratic rule of law, planning a coup d’état, and forming a criminal association.
Braga Netto’s Arrest and Role
Braga Netto, arrested in December, is believed to have obstructed the investigation by hindering the collection of evidence. As Defense Minister, he is thought to have played a crucial role in backing the coup plan by influencing officers and commanders.
Bolsonaro’s Multiple Investigations
Bolsonaro is facing a series of other legal proceedings. He is accused of illegally selling jewelry and luxury watches he received as official diplomatic gifts while in office to enrich himself. The former president also allegedly instructed the production of fake vaccination cards for himself, family members, and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.
