Brazil’s Supreme Court found Jair Bolsonaro guilty of plotting a coup to remain in power after losing the 2022 election.
Three of five justices ruled against Bolsonaro on five counts, while one justice voted for acquittal.
Justice Cármen Lúcia confirmed the conviction Thursday, following Justice Luiz Fux’s dissent.
The court will announce Bolsonaro’s sentence once the final justice casts a vote.
The 70-year-old former president currently serves house arrest for violating restrictions on political messaging.
Political Tensions Escalate
The ruling deepens Brazil’s political divisions and could trigger U.S. government backlash.
Donald Trump called Bolsonaro’s trial a “witch hunt” and linked it to tariffs on Brazilian imports.
Observers warn the U.S. may impose new sanctions, further straining diplomatic relations.
Justice Alexandre de Moraes accused Bolsonaro of leading a coup and heading a criminal organization.
Bolsonaro Plans Appeal and Retains Influence
Bolsonaro sent lawyers to court instead of attending in person and denied wrongdoing.
His legal team pledged to appeal to the full 11-justice Supreme Court.
Supporters rallied in streets demanding acquittal, while opponents welcomed the conviction as accountability.
Despite a separate ban on holding office until 2030, Bolsonaro remains politically influential.
He may name a political heir to challenge President Lula da Silva next year.
Allied lawmakers and his three sons might push Congress to grant him amnesty.
