SAO PAULO — Brazilian lawmakers voted Thursday to slash the prison sentence of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who was serving a 27-year term for orchestrating a failed coup attempt.
The legislative action could potentially cut Bolsonaro’s incarceration time by approximately two decades, though political experts note the exact reduction remains uncertain. Bolsonaro, who started his sentence in November and is currently confined to house arrest, may see significant relief from the congressional decision.
The measure faced strong opposition from current President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who blocked the proposal in December. However, lawmakers successfully overturned Lula’s veto during Thursday’s session, with multiple opposition representatives referencing the upcoming October elections during debate.
Political tensions remain high as Lula seeks another presidential term, facing fierce competition from Sen. Flávio Bolsonaro, the former president’s son, who has emerged as a leading challenger.
The congressional legislation broadly reduces sentences for various offenses, particularly those involving attacks on democratic institutions and coup-related activities.
Other Bolsonaro allies who received similar convictions for comparable charges may also see their sentences reduced under the new law.
Legal analysts expect the decision will face immediate challenges before Brazil’s highest court.
