Brazil’s former president Bolsonaro and aides indicted for alleged 2022 coup attempt

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and 36 others have been indicted by federal police on charges of attempting a coup to keep him in office after being defeated in the 2022 elections. The findings will be delivered to Brazil’s Supreme Court, where they will be reviewed by Prosecutor-General Paulo Gonet to determine whether to proceed with a trial.

Bolsonaro, a right-leaning politician, has denied accusations that he tried to stay in power after losing to left-wing President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in 2022. Following his electoral defeat, Bolsonaro launched a campaign alleging that the election was fraudulent.

Just one week after Lula assumed office, supporters of Bolsonaro raided and vandalized the buildings of Brazil’s Supreme Court, Congress, and the presidential palace. Hundreds of individuals are expected to face trial for their involvement in the violent acts.

Since his electoral loss, Bolsonaro has faced multiple legal challenges. In June 2023, electoral judges voted to ban him from holding public office for eight years due to his attacks on the country’s democratic institutions and his role in stoking political tensions.

In addition to the coup allegations, Bolsonaro has also been indicted for alleged money laundering and criminal association related to diamonds he reportedly received from Saudi Arabia during his time in office. This is the second set of criminal charges brought against Bolsonaro, with the first being in connection to falsifying COVID-19 vaccine records.

Recently, Brazilian police arrested four military personnel and a federal police officer for allegedly plotting a coup to overthrow the government post-2022 election and targeting Lula and other officials for assassination.

This ongoing legal saga has raised concerns about the stability of Brazil’s democracy and the rule of law. Bolsonaro’s defiance of electoral outcomes and his alleged involvement in criminal activities have sparked outrage and calls for justice.

As the legal proceedings continue, the future political landscape of Brazil remains uncertain. The outcome of Bolsonaro’s trial and the accountability of those involved in the coup attempt will have significant implications for the country’s democratic principles and governance.

By Greg Wehner, Breaking News Reporter for Fox News Digital. For story tips and inquiries, contact Greg.Wehner@Fox.com or follow on Twitter @GregWehner.