Brazil’s President Opposes Bill Benefiting Former Leader Bolsonaro
SAO PAULO (AP) — President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil has announced his intention to veto recently passed legislation that would potentially reduce the prison sentence of ex-President Jair Bolsonaro. Bolsonaro, who was detained in November on charges of attempting a coup, is currently serving a 27-year sentence.
The legislative proposal, approved by both the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies, aims to decrease the sentences of individuals convicted of multiple charges related to the coup attempt. Lula, addressing journalists in Brasilia, indicated his opposition, stating, “With all due respect to the National Congress, when it reaches my desk, I will veto it.” He emphasized the accountability of those who have committed crimes against Brazil’s democracy.
Bolsonaro’s legal team has lodged an appeal with the Supreme Court, arguing that the combined sentences for undermining the rule of law and the coup attempt, which stemmed from the same incident, are excessive.
The contentious bill proposes to expedite the transition from stricter to more lenient prison conditions for those convicted. Its passage could alter the duration of Bolsonaro’s incarceration, potentially allowing him to enter a less restrictive regime after seven years, contingent upon meeting certain legal criteria. However, Paulinho da Força, the bill’s rapporteur, suggests this period might reduce to slightly over two years if the bill is enacted.
The legislation also offers sentence reductions, possibly up to two-thirds, for offenses committed within group contexts, specifically benefiting individuals involved in the January 8, 2023, insurrection in Brasilia. Those not directly involved in financing or leading the events could see their sentences reduced by a third to two-thirds.
Sen. Flávio Bolsonaro, the former president’s eldest son and a potential presidential candidate for the Liberal Party in the 2026 election, has lauded the legislative approval as a “first step.” He argued against the necessity of an amnesty debate, suggesting the need to annul what he described as a “farce” of a process.
Public opposition to the bill has been significant, with tens of thousands protesting across Brazil, including major demonstrations in Brasilia, Sao Paulo, Florianopolis, Salvador, and Recife.
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