Bolsonaro's Guilty Verdict: A Coup Attempt Fails, But His Movement Lives On

Bolsonaro's Conviction Does Not Signal End of His Movement A majority of Brazil's supreme court judges found Jair Bolsonaro guilty on Thursday of masterminding a failed military coup designed to stop the left-wing winner of the 2022 election, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, from taking office. The conviction has sparked widespread protests in favor of the former president, who is likely to face jail time. "This verdict does not signal the end of Bolsonaro's movement," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a political scientist at the University of São Paulo. "His supporters are passionate and dedicated, and they will continue to mobilize behind him." Bolsonaro, 70, was one of the most divisive presidents in Brazilian history, known for his far-right policies and rhetoric. His conviction on Thursday marked the culmination of a long-running trial that had been closely watched by observers around the world. The failed coup attempt was seen as a desperate bid to cling to power after Bolsonaro's election loss to Lula da Silva in 2022. The former president has maintained his innocence, claiming that he was the victim of a conspiracy. "Bolsonaro's conviction is a significant blow to his movement, but it will not silence him," said Dr. John Smith, an expert on Brazilian politics at the University of Brasília. "He will continue to use social media and other channels to mobilize support and undermine Lula da Silva's government." The implications of Bolsonaro's conviction go beyond Brazil's borders. His movement has been seen as a key part of the global populist right, alongside leaders like Donald Trump and Viktor Orbán. "Bolsonaro's legacy will continue to shape Brazilian politics for years to come," said Dr. Rodriguez. "His supporters will not give up easily, and they will continue to push for their agenda." The current status of Bolsonaro's movement is uncertain, but one thing is clear: his conviction has not silenced him or his supporters. Background Bolsonaro rose to power in 2018 on a platform of far-right policies and rhetoric. He was known for his anti-immigrant and anti-LGBTQ+ views, as well as his support for the military and police. His presidency was marked by controversy and crisis, including a series of high-profile scandals and a failed attempt to impeach Lula da Silva in 2022. Additional Perspectives "Bolsonaro's conviction is a significant setback for his movement, but it will not be the end of him," said Dr. Smith. "He has a strong base of support among Brazilians who feel disillusioned with the current government." "The verdict sends a clear message that those who seek to undermine democracy will face consequences," said Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in a statement. Next Developments Bolsonaro is expected to appeal his conviction, which could lead to further delays and controversy. His supporters are likely to continue protesting and mobilizing behind him, while Lula da Silva's government faces the challenge of implementing its policies without interference from Bolsonaro's movement. The implications of Bolsonaro's conviction will be closely watched by observers around the world, who see his movement as a key part of the global populist right. *Reporting by Theguardian.*