In September 2018, while campaigning in the south-eastern city of Juiz de Fora, Jair Bolsonaro was fatally stabbed. The shocking incident garnered massive media coverage and transformed him into an emblem of resilience, ultimately propelling him into the presidency weeks later.
Fast forward seven years, and Brazil's Supreme Court has found him guilty of plotting a coup, handing down a sentence of over 27 years in prison. While many speculate that his political career is over, Bolsonaro's presence remains significant, with discussions of possible amnesty stirring concerns about his continued influence over Brazil's political landscape.
For years, Bolsonaro was dismissed by the political establishment due to his inflammatory rhetoric and a controversial background that included an affinity for the military dictatorship. In a climate marked by economic turmoil and political scandals, he capitalized on public disillusionment to craft a broad coalition that elected him president in 2018. His presidency was marked by pro-business policies, a weak environmental agenda, and a pandemic response deemed negligent. From denying the severity of COVID-19 to undermining public health measures, Bolsonaro's leadership cost thousands of lives.
Despite his downfalls, Bolsonaro's staunch supporters are undeterred, rallying in his defense even after his conviction. Discussions surrounding potential amnesty highlight the fragile nature of Brazilian democracy, particularly how Bolsonaro's political legacy persists, even from behind bars.
As Brazil approaches future elections and with the specter of Bolsonaro's influence still looming, the nation stands at a crossroads, grappling with the implications of his actions and the paths forward for governance in a deeply divided society.
