Brazil Convicts Bolsonaro, Sentences 27 Years for Coup Plot

Brazil's Supreme Court sentenced former president Jair Bolsonaro to 27 years in prison for orchestrating a coup attempt after losing the 2022 election, marking a historic moment as he is the first former Brazilian president convicted of trying to overturn election results. The court found Bolsonaro guilty on multiple counts, including leading a criminal organization and attempting to abolish democratic rule, with several co-defendants also receiving lengthy prison terms. The verdict sparked celebrations among Brazilians who view it as a victory for democracy, while right-wing figures linked to US President Donald Trump expressed anger and called for intervention. Regional leaders such as Chile's President Gabriel Boric and Colombia's President Gustavo Petro praised the conviction as a defense of democratic principles. However, concerns remain about the judiciary's political involvement and the potential for increased polarization within Brazil, with critics debating the trial's procedural conduct and impact on the Supreme Court's legitimacy. Chilean right-wing presidential candidate Jose Antonio Kast defended Bolsonaro, praising his anti-corruption efforts and criticizing Brazil's justice system.