Bolsonaro rallies supporters in Rio, seeks amnesty amid coup allegations

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro is rallying support for a political comeback in the 2026 elections, despite facing potential legal challenges related to his alleged involvement in the January 8 coup attempt. At a recent rally in Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana, he called for amnesty for those convicted over the riots that sought to overturn the election results favoring current President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro's statements reflect a strategy similar to that of Donald Trump, positioning himself as a victim of political persecution while aiming to mobilize his base. The Supreme Court is set to review the Attorney General's indictment against Bolsonaro and others on March 25, which could lead to a trial and significant legal consequences. As Bolsonaro's supporters gather in large numbers, the political landscape in Brazil remains deeply polarized, raising questions about democracy and rule of law. Recent polls indicate a divided public perception, with many viewing Bolsonaro as both a victim of persecution and a perpetrator of the coup attempt.