Brazil’s former President Jair Bolsonaro has been charged with orchestrating a coup to remain in power after his 2022 election defeat, including an alleged plan to poison his successor, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
Prosecutors accuse Bolsonaro and 33 others of leading a criminal organization, attempting a coup, and damaging state property during the January 8, 2023, riots in Brasília. The alleged plot, dubbed “Green and Yellow Dagger,” reportedly involved plans to assassinate both President Lula and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes.
Bolsonaro has denied any wrongdoing, labeling the accusations as political persecution. He stated on social media that it is typical for “authoritarian regimes” to invent internal enemies to justify persecution, censorship, and arbitrary arrests.
The Supreme Court will determine whether to proceed with a trial. If convicted, Bolsonaro could face decades in prison. He is already barred from running for public office until 2030 due to previous electoral misconduct.
In response to the charges, President Lula emphasized the importance of due process, stating that while the presumption of innocence applies, those found guilty must be held accountable for their actions.
This development marks a significant moment in Brazil’s political landscape, as the nation grapples with the aftermath of the alleged coup attempt and its implications for democracy.
