In a stunning development, Brazil's prosecutor-general has accused former leader Jair Bolsonaro of being involved in a plan to poison his successor, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, as part of a coup attempt to retain power.
The prosecutor-general, Paulo Gonet, has formally charged Bolsonaro with orchestrating a coup to stay in office following his electoral defeat in 2022. The alleged plan also included targeting Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, a known adversary of the former president.
Details of the Alleged Coup Plot
According to Gonet, a criminal organization operating from the presidential palace devised a strategy to undermine democratic institutions and the rule of law, ominously named the 'Green and Yellow Dagger.' This plan was reportedly brought to Bolsonaro's attention, and he purportedly gave his approval.
The prosecutor asserts that Bolsonaro, along with 33 other individuals, actively participated in this scheme to subvert the democratic process.
Legal Ramifications and Denials
Last November, the Federal Police submitted an extensive report detailing the alleged coup plot to Gonet. The report outlined various tactics employed, such as spreading distrust in the electoral system, drafting deceptive decrees, coercing military officials, and inciting civil unrest.
If the charges are accepted by the Supreme Court, Bolsonaro will face trial for his alleged involvement in the conspiracy. Despite the grave accusations, the former president vehemently denies any wrongdoing, dismissing the allegations as baseless.
Furthermore, the accused individuals are not only facing charges related to a coup attempt but also stand accused of forming an armed criminal group, attempting to disrupt the democratic order through violence, and endangering state assets.
Legal Proceedings and Response
The Prosecutor General's office has stated that the organization behind the coup plot was led by Bolsonaro and his vice-presidential candidate, along with other civilian and military collaborators. Their objective was to obstruct the legitimate outcome of the 2022 elections.
As the legal process unfolds, the accused individuals will have the opportunity to present their defense. Bolsonaro remains defiant in the face of these allegations, asserting his innocence and expressing confidence in the judicial system.
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