Brazil’s Bolsonaro Sentenced to 27 Years for Coup Attempt

BRASÍLIA, Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has been sentenced to 27 years in prison by the country’s Supreme Court for attempting to overturn the 2022 election results.

The ruling, delivered late Thursday, found Bolsonaro guilty of orchestrating efforts to keep himself in power, including encouraging mass protests and attempting to sway the military.

The decision has sent shockwaves through Brazilian politics, where Bolsonaro remains a divisive figure. Supporters protested outside the court, while President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva urged calm and respect for the rule of law.

“This is a historic ruling for Brazilian democracy,” said political analyst Mariana Gomes. “It sends a strong message that no leader is above the constitution.”

Bolsonaro’s lawyers said they would appeal.