Feb 19 (V7N) – Brazil’s former president Jair Bolsonaro has been charged with plotting a coup to overturn his 2022 election loss, prosecutors announced Tuesday, further complicating his hopes for a political comeback.

Brazil’s Prosecutor General Paulo Gonet accused Bolsonaro and his former running mate, General Walter Braga Netto, of leading a “criminal organization” aiming to overthrow democracy. In total, 34 individuals, including top military officials, were indicted.

The indictment follows a two-year investigation into Bolsonaro’s alleged role in the January 2023 Brasilia riots, where his supporters stormed government buildings. Prosecutors claim the plot included plans to prevent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva from taking office.

Bolsonaro has denied wrongdoing, dismissing the case as political persecution. His defense has two weeks to respond before the Supreme Court decides whether to proceed. If convicted, he faces 12 to over 40 years in prison.

END/WD/RH/