Brazil's ex-President Jair Bolsonaro charged over alleged coup plot
What's the story
Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro has been formally charged over an alleged coup plot to overturn the 2022 election results.
The charges were filed in the Supreme Court in Brasilia on Tuesday by prosecutors who have accused Bolsonaro and 33 others of crimes such as armed criminal organization, attempted violent abolition of the democratic rule of law, and coup d'etat.
Plot specifics
Alleged coup plot details and Bolsonaro's potential penalties
Prosecutors allege that the conspiracy started in 2021 with attempts to erode public confidence in electronic voting machines.
In 2022, Bolsonaro allegedly met with ambassadors to discuss unfounded allegations of voting fraud "in an attempt to prepare the international community for disrespecting the popular will in the presidential elections," according to the Attorney General's Office.
The indictment also states that Bolsonaro approved a coup plan, which included assassinating President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and his vice president.
Case evidence
Evidence supporting charges against Bolsonaro
The Attorney General's office has called the scheme a "conspiratorial plot" against democratic institutions.
The charges are supported by a wealth of evidence, including manuscripts, digital files, and message exchanges.
The indictment mentions a plan dubbed "Green and Yellow Dagger," which sought to undermine Brazil's democratic order.
Legal proceedings
Bolsonaro's response and potential trial timeline
Bolsonaro has denied any wrongdoing, stating he has "no concerns about the accusations." His defense team expressed "dismay and indignation" over the charges.
If found guilty, Bolsonaro could face up to 28 years in prison. He is already barred from public office for eight years due to a separate investigation into election misinformation.
The Supreme Court will decide whether to accept the charges and proceed with a trial.