Brazil's former president Jair Bolsonaro and seven allies, including four senior military figures, have gone on trial for allegedly attempting to stage a coup after losing the 2022 election. It is the first time in Brazilian history that such powerful figures have faced justice for seeking to overthrow the country's democracy.
The trial, which began on Tuesday at the Supreme Court, is expected to last two weeks. Five judges will decide the fate of Bolsonaro and his co-conspirators, who face decades in prison if found guilty of masterminding the failed power grab. Presiding judge Alexandre de Moraes described the plot as an attempt to impose 'a veritable dictatorship' and warned that impunity would encourage further coup attempts.
Prosecutor General Paulo Gonet told the court it was essential to hold those behind the 'frightening and shadowy' conspiracy accountable. Historian Danilo Araújo Marques called the trial 'unprecedented and historic', noting that previous coup attempts had always resulted in amnesty. He said the trial was a testament to the maturity of Brazil's institutions and democracy.
The trial has been complicated by pressure from US President Donald Trump, who has imposed tariffs on Brazilian imports and sanctioned Judge Moraes. Former US ambassador to Brazil Thomas Shannon described Trump's actions as 'a political intervention with an economic cudgel', aimed at helping Bolsonaro evade punishment and return to power. However, Shannon believes Trump's strategy may backfire, as polls show support for Bolsonaro falling while President Lula gains popularity by portraying himself as a defender of Brazilian sovereignty.
