Brazil’s attorney general has formally accused former President Jair Bolsonaro and 33 others of plotting a coup after his 2022 election defeat. Prosecutors claim they tried to block President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva from taking office.
Prosecutors Present Strong Evidence
Attorney General Paulo Gonet Branco filed the charges in the Supreme Court on Tuesday. He cited “manuscripts, digital files, spreadsheets, and exchanges of messages” as proof of the conspiracy.
“They describe, in detail, the conspiratorial plot set up and executed against democratic institutions,” Branco’s office stated.
Bolsonaro and Allies Face Criminal Charges
Bolsonaro, 69, and his former running mate Walter Braga Netto face serious charges, including “armed criminal organization.” Prosecutors allege they collaborated with military and civilian supporters to overturn the election results.
A two-year federal investigation, spanning over 800 pages, found Bolsonaro “fully aware and actively participated” in the attempt to hold on to power.
Bolsonaro Rejects Accusations
Bolsonaro denied the charges and called them “persecution.” However, investigators claim he started attacking Brazil’s electronic voting system as early as 2021. He allegedly used public speeches and online platforms to spread doubt about the elections.
Efforts to Disrupt Voting and Incite Violence
During the second round of the 2022 election, Bolsonaro’s allies allegedly mobilized security forces to prevent opposition supporters from voting. Later, they encouraged January 8, 2023, riots, where Bolsonaro’s supporters stormed government buildings.
Investigators also uncovered a plot to assassinate Lula, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and a top judge. Prosecutors claim Bolsonaro approved the plan.
Supreme Court to Decide Next Steps
Now, the Supreme Court must decide whether to move forward with the case. Despite the serious allegations, Bolsonaro told reporters in Brasília that he had “no concern” about being indicted.
