Bolsonaro’s Health "Severely Weakened," Will Miss STF Trial Over Alleged Coup Attempt, Says Lawyer (2025)
- Why Is Bolsonaro Missing His Trial?
- What Are the Charges Against Bolsonaro?
- How Has Bolsonaro’s Defense Responded?
- What Role Does Mauro Cid’s Testimony Play?
- What’s Next in the Trial?
- How Has Brazil Reacted?
- Could Bolsonaro’s Health Delay the Trial?
- What Does This Mean for Brazil’s Democracy?
- FAQs: Bolsonaro’s STF Trial
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro is reportedly in poor health and will not attend his Supreme Federal Court (STF) trial regarding accusations of attempting a coup d'état, according to his lawyer. The case, which could see Bolsonaro facing up to 43 years in prison, has drawn significant attention as it unfolds in Brazil’s highest court. Here’s a breakdown of the latest developments, legal arguments, and what’s at stake.
Why Is Bolsonaro Missing His Trial?
Bolsonaro’s attorney, Paulo Amador da Cunha Bueno, stated that the former president’s health is "severely weakened" and that he is "quite unsettled" by recent political developments in Brazil. Despite his absence, Bolsonaro remains "confident and optimistic," according to his legal team. The trial, which began earlier this week, centers on allegations that Bolsonaro sought to undermine Brazil’s democratic institutions following his 2022 election loss to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
What Are the Charges Against Bolsonaro?
Bolsonaro faces five formal charges: violent attempted abolition of the democratic rule of law, attempted coup d'état, participation in an armed criminal organization, qualified damage, and deterioration of listed heritage property. Prosecutors argue that a December 2022 meeting between Bolsonaro and military commanders—where he allegedly explored ways to block Lula’s inauguration—demonstrates his intent to disrupt the democratic transition.
How Has Bolsonaro’s Defense Responded?
His lawyers, including Celso Vilardi, have vehemently denied the accusations. Vilardi argued in court that Bolsonaro "did not attack the democratic rule of law" and that there is "not a single piece of evidence" linking him to the January 8, 2023, attacks on government buildings or alleged assassination plots (codenamed "Green and Yellow Dagger" and "Operation Spyglass"). The defense also claims Bolsonaro’s right to due process was violated, citing limited access to evidence and rushed deadlines for reviewing case materials.
What Role Does Mauro Cid’s Testimony Play?
A key point of contention is the plea deal of Mauro Cid, Bolsonaro’s former aide, whose testimony the defense dismisses as "unreliable" due to "omissions and contradictions." Vilardi insists Cid’s statements should be invalidated, while prosecutors rely on them to bolster their case. Legal analysts suggest this clash could sway the court’s final decision.
What’s Next in the Trial?
The First Panel of the STF, led by Justice Alexandre de Moraes, will begin voting on the merits next week. If convicted, Bolsonaro—already under house arrest—could face decades in prison. The outcome may hinge on whether the court accepts the defense’s argument that Bolsonaro’s actions were political rhetoric rather than criminal intent.
How Has Brazil Reacted?
The trial has deepened political divisions, with Bolsonaro’s supporters decrying it as a "witch hunt" and opponents framing it as a reckoning for democratic backsliding. Markets have remained stable, but analysts warn prolonged instability could affect investor confidence in Brazil’s institutions.
Could Bolsonaro’s Health Delay the Trial?
Unlikely. The STF has proceeded with high-profile cases despite defendants’ health issues before. However, if Bolsonaro’s condition worsens, his team could file for postponement—a MOVE likely to draw scrutiny given the trial’s high stakes.
What Does This Mean for Brazil’s Democracy?
This case tests Brazil’s judiciary’s ability to hold leaders accountable without appearing politically motivated. A conviction could set a precedent for prosecuting elected officials who challenge democratic norms, while an acquittal might embolden similar movements globally.
FAQs: Bolsonaro’s STF Trial
What are the specific charges against Bolsonaro?
He faces five charges, including attempted coup and criminal organization involvement, tied to post-2022 election actions.
Why does the defense criticize Mauro Cid’s testimony?
They argue his plea deal contains inconsistencies and should be excluded from evidence.
When will a verdict be reached?
Voting starts next week, but the timeline depends on the justices’ deliberations.
Has Bolsonaro commented publicly on the trial?
Not directly—his lawyers cite his health and legal strategy as reasons for silence.
