Thu Sep 11 21:26:19 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Brazil’s Bolsonaro Convicted of Attempted Coup, Faces Potential Prison Sentence**

**Brasilia, Brazil** – In a landmark ruling that has sent shockwaves through Brazilian politics, former President Jair Bolsonaro has been convicted by a Supreme Court panel on charges of attempting to subvert the democratic process following his 2022 election defeat. As of Thursday, a majority of justices had ruled against the far-right leader, finding ample evidence he sought to illegally retain power in an attempted military coup.

Justice Carmen Lucia stated that the evidence showed Bolsonaro acted “with the purpose of eroding democracy and institutions.” While one judge, Justice Luiz Fux, broke ranks to acquit Bolsonaro, the conviction will become final upon the verdict of the fifth and final judge.

Currently under house arrest, Bolsonaro faces a potential prison sentence exceeding 40 years, based on five charges, including leading a “criminal organization” to overthrow current President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. The high court panel is expected to decide on a sentence on Friday.

The trial’s conclusion could coincide with the run-up to the 2026 presidential election, in which Bolsonaro has stated he will run. He is currently barred from running until 2030.

The conviction has drawn international attention, with former U.S. President Donald Trump, a close ally of Bolsonaro, denouncing the trial as a “witch hunt.” Trump has reportedly responded by imposing 50% tariffs on Brazilian goods, sanctioning the presiding judge, and revoking visas for members of Brazil’s high court.

Bolsonaro, a former army captain, rose to prominence through his support of Brazil’s former military dictatorship. He has remained a polarizing figure, and the verdict is anticipated to spark widespread unrest among his supporters. In the past weekend, roughly 40,000 of his supporters took to the streets of Brasilia to voice their discontent, supporting his claim that he is being politically targeted.

The unfolding situation is being closely monitored both domestically and internationally, as it has the potential to further destabilize Brazil’s already volatile political landscape.

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