Brazil’s Supreme Court convicted Jair Bolsonaro of plotting a coup after losing the 2022 presidential election.
Three of five justices found Bolsonaro guilty on five counts, with one justice yet to vote.
Justice Cármen Lúcia voted to convict on Thursday, a day after Justice Luiz Fux supported acquittal.
The panel will decide Bolsonaro’s sentence after all votes, potentially imposing decades in prison.
The 70-year-old former president remains under house arrest for violating a ban on political messaging.
Political Reactions Intensify
The conviction deepens Brazil’s political divide and may trigger backlash from the United States government.
Donald Trump labeled Bolsonaro’s trial a “witch hunt” and linked it to a 50% tariff on Brazilian goods.
Observers warn Washington could announce new sanctions, worsening already fragile diplomatic relations with Brazil.
Justice Alexandre de Moraes said Bolsonaro led a coup plot and headed a criminal organisation.
Bolsonaro Retains Influence Despite Legal Troubles
Bolsonaro sent lawyers to court instead of attending, maintaining his denial of wrongdoing.
His lawyers pledged to appeal the verdict to the full 11-justice Supreme Court.
Supporters rallied in the streets demanding immediate acquittal, while opponents praised the court’s ruling.
Despite a separate ban blocking him from office until 2030, Bolsonaro retains significant political influence.
He may choose an heir to challenge President Lula da Silva in next year’s election.
Allied lawmakers and his three sons may pursue congressional amnesty to reduce his sentence.
