Brazilian President Seeks Acquittal in Coup Plot Trial
(MENAFN) As his high-stakes trial nears its conclusion, former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has formally requested acquittal on charges tied to an alleged plot to overturn the 2022 presidential election, which brought Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to power.
In a sweeping 197-page defense submitted to Brazil’s Supreme Court, Bolsonaro’s legal team firmly rejected the accusations, insisting their client "is innocent of all positions presented in the complaint" and arguing there is a “complete lack of evidence.”
"The former president did not engage in any conduct with the objective of preventing or hindering the inauguration of the then-elected president," the defense stated. "On the contrary, he always defended and reaffirmed democracy and the rule of law."
The 70-year-old former leader faces grave allegations, including attempting to abolish the democratic state, masterminding a coup d'état, and other crimes that could carry a maximum sentence of 40 years. The trial’s verdict is expected in September.
Bolsonaro, a far-right political figure, has persistently denied any wrongdoing, claiming political persecution. He remains under house arrest, imposed after Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes ruled he violated a court order banning him from social media. The former president has since been ordered to wear an electronic ankle monitor, surrender his phones, and is prohibited from making phone calls.
Charges also extend to six co-defendants, who face counts including organizing an armed criminal group, attempting to violently dismantle democratic institutions, and conspiring to stage a coup.
The trial has drawn international scrutiny, with notable responses from U.S. political figures. Brazilian lawmaker Eduardo Bolsonaro, the former president’s son, is spearheading a campaign to have the justices overseeing the case arrested.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has criticized the proceedings, linking a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports and proposed sanctions against Justice de Moraes to what he labeled a “witch hunt” targeting his political ally. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has similarly voiced opposition to the prosecution.
This case marks one of the most consequential legal reckonings in modern Brazilian politics, with global implications for democratic accountability and the role of populist leaders.
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