SAO PAULO — On Thursday, Brazil’s federal police announced that they have filed charges against former President Jair Bolsonaro along with 36 associates, asserting that they attempted to orchestrate a coup following Bolsonaro’s defeat in the 2022 presidential elections.

The evidence collected during the investigation is set to be submitted to Brazil’s Supreme Court, where it will then be forwarded to Prosecutor-General Paulo Gonet.

Gonet will be responsible for determining the next steps, which could involve agreeing with the indictments and moving forward with a trial for Bolsonaro, or potentially dismissing the case altogether.

This significant legal development reflects ongoing tensions in Brazil’s political landscape post-election and highlights the serious nature of the allegations against the former leader.

The outcome of this case will likely have a considerable impact on Brazilian politics, both in relation to Bolsonaro’s legacy and the broader implications for democratic governance in the country.

As the investigation unfolds, observers are keenly watching how the judicial system will address these allegations of attempted insurrection within the context of Brazil’s recent electoral history.