Summary
On Brazil's Independence Day, large crowds gathered in various cities to support and oppose former President Jair Bolsonaro. His supporters rallied just days before the expected verdict in his trial for allegedly trying to overturn his 2022 election defeat. Bolsonaro faces up to 43 years in prison if found guilty of plotting a coup.
Key Facts
- Large rallies took place in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasilia both supporting and opposing Bolsonaro.
- Bolsonaro's trial is concluding soon, and he could face 43 years in prison if convicted of trying to retain power after losing the 2022 election.
- Bolsonaro’s supporters waved Brazilian and U.S. flags, signaling support from former U.S. President Donald Trump.
- Bolsonaro denied the charges, and Trump's recent actions include calling the trial a "witch-hunt" and imposing tariffs on Brazilian goods.
- In Sao Paulo, an estimated 40,000 people gathered in support of Bolsonaro, including his wife, Michelle Bolsonaro.
- The rallies occurred as Brazil's Supreme Court is set to rule on Bolsonaro's case by Friday.
- Bolsonaro is barred from running for office again, but his son Flavio wore a "Bolsonaro 2026" shirt and criticized the Supreme Court.
- Others criticized foreign interference, mentioning U.S. tariffs and Brazil's sovereignty in speeches during military parades attended by President Lula.
