Brazil's Federal Police have formally accused former President Jair Bolsonaro and 36 others of orchestrating a coup to maintain his presidency. An 884-page report details a multifaceted scheme, supported by evidence and testimonies, outlining a plan to undermine the electoral system, draft a decree to legitimize the plot, pressure military officials, and incite a riot in the capital. Bolsonaro and his allies deny any involvement, claiming political persecution.
Former President Jair Bolsonaro addresses the press after being formally charged with attempted coup, in Brasilia, Brazil. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
Disseminating Disinformation
The alleged efforts to discredit Brazil’s electronic voting system began in 2019, intensifying as the 2022 election approached. "Digital militias" and pro-Bolsonaro influencers propagated claims of system vulnerabilities. Bolsonaro's open admiration for Brazil’s past military dictatorship further fueled the narrative of a potentially rigged election, prompting supporter rallies and encampments outside military bases.
The Draft Decree
A draft decree discovered in the home of Bolsonaro’s former justice minister, Anderson Torres, reveals a plan to establish a committee to investigate alleged election fraud, potentially suspending the electoral court's authority and calling a new election. While the navy commander was reportedly prepared to comply, army and air force leaders opposed any interference with Lula's inauguration, effectively halting the plan.
Assassination Plot Allegations
The Federal Police also arrested individuals accused of plotting to assassinate then president-elect Lula, vice president-elect Geraldo Alckmin, and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes. This plan aimed to invalidate Lula's candidacy. While no evidence suggests the assassination plot was enacted, investigators found evidence of surveillance on de Moraes. Gen. Walter Braga Netto, Bolsonaro's running mate, is implicated in approving the assassination plan, a claim he denies.
The January 8th Uprising
The report links Bolsonaro and his ministers to the January 8th riot, where his supporters stormed government buildings. This event is presented as part of the pressure campaign on the army to participate in the coup. The connection between the riot and the larger plot remains a point of contention.
The Prosecutor-General will now determine whether to formally charge the accused, dismiss the investigation, or pursue further testimony. The legal proceedings will likely delve into the complexities of the alleged plot and the roles of each individual involved.
