Brazilians Mobilize Against Amnesty for Ex-President Bolsonaro in Mass Protests

Tens of Thousands Rally Against Amnesty for Bolsonaro SAO PAULO, BRAZIL - Tens of thousands of Brazilians took to the streets on Sunday to demand that their country's former president, Jair Bolsonaro, not be granted amnesty for his conviction in plotting a coup. The massive protests came as right-wing efforts to help Bolsonaro escape jail gained momentum. According to eyewitnesses, huge crowds packed the squares and beaches of some of Brazil's biggest cities, including Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasilia. Protesters hoisted giant Brazilian flags over their heads, chanting slogans against amnesty for the far-right populist. "We will not let Bolsonaro escape justice," said Maria Luiza, a 35-year-old teacher who attended the protest in Sao Paulo. "He tried to destroy our democracy, and now he must face the consequences." Bolsonaro was sentenced to 27 years in prison earlier this month for his role in attempting to cling to power after losing the 2022 presidential election to left-wing opponent Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The conviction included charges of plotting to assassinate Lula, Vice-President Geraldo Alckmin, and a supreme court judge. The protests were organized by various civil society groups and opposition parties, who argue that granting amnesty to Bolsonaro would undermine the rule of law and embolden authoritarian tendencies in Brazil. "Bolsonaro's conviction is a landmark moment for Brazilian democracy," said Senator Randolfe Rodrigues, a member of Lula's Workers' Party. "We cannot let his allies try to whitewash his crimes and escape accountability." The protests come as right-wing lawmakers in Congress are pushing to pass legislation that would grant amnesty to Bolsonaro and other politicians accused of corruption or human rights abuses. "This is not just about Bolsonaro; it's about the future of our democracy," said Luana, a 28-year-old student who attended the protest in Rio de Janeiro. "We must stand up against attempts to undermine the rule of law and protect our institutions." The protests are expected to continue in the coming days as Brazilians demand that their leaders prioritize democracy and accountability over partisan interests. Background: Bolsonaro's conviction was a major blow to his far-right movement, which has been accused of promoting authoritarianism and undermining democratic institutions. The former president's allies have vowed to fight the conviction, but many Brazilians see it as a necessary step towards restoring faith in their democracy. Implications: The protests against amnesty for Bolsonaro highlight the ongoing struggle between democratic forces and authoritarian tendencies in Brazil. As the country grapples with its future, the outcome of this battle will have significant implications for regional politics and global democracy. Next Developments: The Brazilian Congress is expected to vote on the amnesty legislation in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, Bolsonaro's lawyers are preparing an appeal against his conviction, which could lead to further protests and demonstrations across the country. *Reporting by Theguardian.*