Brazilian Supreme Court justices ruled that Jair Bolsonaro attempted a coup after losing the 2022 election.
A majority of the five-member panel voted Thursday to convict him for trying to retain office despite defeat.
Justice Cármen Lúcia cast her guilty vote a day after Justice Luiz Fux argued for Bolsonaro’s acquittal.
Three justices already declared him guilty on five counts, while one vote remains pending before sentencing.
Political Fallout and Global Repercussions
The ruling has deepened political divisions and may spark backlash from the United States government.
Former US President Donald Trump defended Bolsonaro, branding the proceedings a “witch hunt.”
Observers warn Washington could impose sanctions on Brazil, straining its already fragile diplomatic relations.
Justice Alexandre de Moraes, overseeing the trial, described Bolsonaro as the leader of a coup plot.
Bolsonaro’s Defence and Future Strategy
Bolsonaro, currently under house arrest, skipped the hearing and sent his lawyers to court.
His defence team confirmed plans to appeal the verdict before the full 11-member Supreme Court.
The former president denied all charges and framed the process as political persecution.
Despite his ban from office until 2030, Bolsonaro remains an influential political figure in Brazil.
He is expected to select an heir to challenge President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva next year.
Bolsonaro’s allies in Congress, including his three lawmaker sons, may push for amnesty legislation.
