Bolsonaro Convicted in Landmark Ruling Upholding Brazilian Democracy
Brasília, Brazil - In a decisive victory for democratic institutions, former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has been convicted of inciting the January 6th-style attacks on government buildings in Brasília. the ruling, delivered on September 11, 2025, marks a meaningful moment in Brazil’s ongoing effort to safeguard its democracy against extremism and attempts to subvert the rule of law.
The conviction stems from Bolsonaro’s actions surrounding the 2022 presidential election, which he lost to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Following the election results, Bolsonaro repeatedly questioned the integrity of the electoral process, echoing unsubstantiated claims of fraud. This rhetoric culminated in a violent assault on Brazil’s Congress, Supreme Court, and presidential palace on January 8, 2023, mirroring the attack on the U.S. Capitol two years prior.
Judge Alexandre de Moraes, the rapporteur of the case, emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, ”History teaches us that impunity, inaction and cowardice do not lead to appeasement.”
The verdict has drawn sharp criticism from the United States, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio denouncing the proceedings as a “witch hunt” and “political persecutions,” a sentiment echoed by far-right factions internationally, including in France. Rubio, the son of Cuban exiles, has faced accusations of failing to recognize the distinction between legitimate democratic processes and attempts to overthrow them.
Moreover, Washington has increased tariffs on Brazilian goods - a move deemed a violation of international rules – in an apparent attempt to pressure Brazilian judges. Critics argue this approach risks pushing Brazil closer into the sphere of influence of China.
The case highlights a stark contrast between Brazil’s response to threats to its democracy and the experience in the United States.While Bolsonaro faces legal consequences for his actions, former U.S. President Donald Trump, who similarly challenged the 2020 election results without evidence, evaded prosecution and ultimately pardoned those involved in the January 6th attack.
Despite the conviction, significant challenges remain. The political polarization that fueled the unrest persists, and deep divisions within Brazilian society have been exacerbated by Bolsonaro’s presidency and its aftermath. The nation now faces the complex task of reconciliation, acknowledging the damage done during a period of intense political turmoil and working towards a more unified future. Demonstrations both for and against the verdict took place in Rio de Janeiro on September 12, 2025, underscoring the ongoing tensions.
