Brazil’s Supreme Court has ordered former President Jair Bolsonaro to wear an electronic ankle monitor as he stands trial for allegedly leading a coup plot to remain in power after his 2022 election loss.
The court’s decision, unsealed Friday, cited Bolsonaro as a flight risk. Authorities claim he conspired with his son, Eduardo, to involve the U.S. in pressuring Brazil’s judiciary, leading to sanctions on Brazilian officials. President Trump condemned the prosecution, calling it a “witch hunt,” and linked it to a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports.
Prosecutors accuse Bolsonaro of heading an armed group seeking to overturn the election, plotting to kill President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and a Supreme Court justice, and inciting the January 8, 2023, riot at key government buildings.
“These actions were a conscious effort to create an environment conducive to violence and a coup,” said Prosecutor-General Paulo Gonet.
Justice Alexandre de Moraes also accused Bolsonaro of obstructing justice and undermining national sovereignty. Though Bolsonaro denies the charges, calling the measures a “supreme humiliation,” he is banned from using social media.
A verdict is expected before year’s end. If convicted, Bolsonaro could face over a decade in prison.
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