Bolsonaro Calls for Support Amid Legal Troubles

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro called for his supporters to rally in his defense as he faces possible prison time if convicted of plotting to stay in power after losing the 2022 election. Bolsonaro urged his supporters to march in Sao Paulo, emphasizing the importance of freedom and justice. The demonstration had already attracted crowds of his supporters by mid-morning Sunday.

During his trial, Bolsonaro denied involvement in an alleged coup plot to regain power after losing to leftist Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in 2022. He is also facing separate charges of illegal espionage while in office, along with his son. Bolsonaro has denied any wrongdoing, claiming the cases are politically motivated to prevent him from running in the 2026 elections.

The former president aspires to make a political comeback similar to Donald Trump's despite being barred from holding public office until 2030 due to his criticism of Brazil's electronic voting system. Bolsonaro had previously called for protests, but attendance has decreased in recent months. The most recent march in April saw around 45,000 participants, a significant drop from previous demonstrations.

Sao Paulo Governor Tarcisio de Freitas announced his support for the march, emphasizing the importance of freedom and peace. De Freitas, a former Bolsonaro minister, is a potential candidate for the conservatives in the 2026 presidential election.

According to the source: GMA Network.