Police Arrest Former Bolsonaro Minister in Coup Plot Probe
BloombergDEC 2024
Brazil: Bolsonaro's 2022 Running Mate Arrested Over Alleged Coup Plot
Above: Former Brazilian Pres. Jair Bolsonaro and his 2022 vice presidential candidate Braga Netto attend a meeting with elected senators at Alvorada Palace in Brasilia, on Oct. 5, 2022 Image copyright: Evaristo Sa/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
Even if this coup failed, accountability for what happened in Brazil isn't only a matter of justice but is crucial for the future of the country's democracy. Investigations have revealed a coordinated, multi-pronged attempt by Bolsonaro and his accomplices to undermine the election's result. The political influence of Brazil's military can't be underestimated, and this is a concern that politicians must confront in the future.
Right narrative
Given that Brazilian authorities have formally called for Bolsonaro and several of his allies to be charged with a coup plot, it's hardly a surprise that Gen. Braga Netto has been arrested. As long warned, right-leaning figures across the nation have been politically persecuted since Bolsonaro left the presidential office in a blatant example of leftist lawfare.