Background on Jair Bolsonaro and the Golpismo Charges
Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil’s former president and a prominent ultraconservative leader, will not attend the final phase of his golpismo trial set to begin on Tuesday and continue until September 12, according to one of his lawyers. The 70-year-old is accused of conspiring to obstruct the inauguration of his successor, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, following the 2022 elections.
The Charges and Proceedings
Bolsonaro faces golpismo charges, which revolve around alleged attempts to undermine democracy. The final phase of the trial will involve the presentation of the case report by Judge Alexandre de Moraes, followed by arguments from the attorney general and defense lawyers for Bolsonaro and seven of his former collaborators.
The Supreme Court justices will then deliberate to decide whether to convict or acquit Bolsonaro and his co-defendants.
Bolsonaro’s Current Status
Since early August, Bolsonaro has been under house arrest while wearing an electronic ankle monitor for violating a ban on social media activism. Judge Moraes has reinforced security measures around Bolsonaro’s Brasilia residence, citing a “risk of flight.”
Supporters gathered near Bolsonaro’s upscale neighborhood over the weekend to show their backing, with a group of about twenty bolsonarists holding a prayer session in his favor on Monday.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Jair Bolsonaro? Jair Bolsonaro is a former president of Brazil, known for his ultraconservative views and controversial policies.
- What are the golpismo charges against him? Bolsonaro is accused of conspiring to obstruct the democratic transition of power following the 2022 elections.
- Why is he not attending the final trial phase? Bolsonaro is not obligated to attend court proceedings, as per the rules of the Supreme Court.
- What security measures have been taken? Judge Moraes has increased security around Bolsonaro’s residence due to concerns about a potential escape.
- What is the expected outcome? The Supreme Court’s verdict is anticipated next week, with Bolsonaro potentially facing up to 43 years in prison if convicted. He maintains his innocence and claims to be a political victim.
