In a landmark decision, three justices from Brazil’s Supreme Court have ruled to convict former President Jair Bolsonaro for orchestrating a coup attempt along with several related crimes.

Bolsonaro

Jair bolsonaro in Brasília, July 2025

Supreme Court of Brazil Advances Conviction Against Jair Bolsonaro

A majority on the five-member panel of Brazil’s highest judicial body has voted to convict former President Jair Bolsonaro. The charges encompass leading an attempted coup to maintain his grip on power, participation in an armed criminal organization, and three other offenses connected to efforts aimed at subverting the 2022 presidential election outcome.

Understanding the Court’s Decision and its Implications

This ruling indicates that Bolsonaro along with seven co-defendants face near-certain convictions across all allegations. Sentencing is expected within days, with potential prison terms possibly surpassing forty years if all charges are upheld.This verdict marks one of the most consequential legal actions against a former Latin American leader in recent history.