The Americas | The noose tightens

Bolsonaro’s bid to regain Brazil’s presidency may end in prison

Brazilian police have accused some of his backers of involvement not just in a coup, but in an assassination plot

Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro speaks to members of the media.
Photograph: Getty Images

On November 21st Brazilian police formally accused Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil’s former far-right president, and 36 others of attempting to prevent Brazil’s newly elected government from taking office. It was the third time Brazil’s federal police recommended criminal charges against the ex-president, but these accusations are by far the most serious. They sharply increase the likelihood that Mr Bolsonaro will spend time in jail. The former president denies all charges and claims he is being politically persecuted.

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