Thousands gathered at Copacabana Beach to support former President Jair Bolsonaro amid coup charges. Protesters demanded amnesty for those jailed during the January 8 riot. Bolsonaro denies wrongdoing and claims political persecution. Experts predict a trial is likely, indicating upcoming challenges for Bolsonaro’s political influence amid ongoing legal issues.
On March 16, 2025, thousands of supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro gathered at Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro. This rally aimed to demonstrate support for Bolsonaro as he faces coup-related charges. Protesters advocated for a proposed bill that would grant amnesty to individuals arrested for their involvement in the January 8, 2023 riots, during which government buildings in Brasilia were vandalized.
Participants donned Brazil’s yellow-and-green national soccer jerseys and held signs proclaiming, “Amnesty, now!” Local media estimates suggest around 18,000 individuals attended, while Bolsonaro’s allies were hopeful for a turnout of 1 million. Copacabana Beach has routinely served as a platform for Bolsonaro’s political rallies, reinforcing his public presence.
The Brazilian prosecutor-general recently charged Bolsonaro with conspiring to stage a coup after his electoral defeat to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Allegations include plans to poison Lula and kill Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who oversees pending cases against Bolsonaro. Denying any wrongdoing, Bolsonaro argues he is a victim of political persecution and seeks to advance the case to the Supreme Court.
At the rally, Bolsonaro reiterated his denial of the coup accusations, asserting his narrative of being politically targeted. Planting doubts about the validity of the charges against him, he stated, “Nobody buys that story. The only reason this coup story wasn’t perfect for them was because I was in the United States. If I’d been here, I’d still be in prison, or maybe killed by them. I’m going to be a problem for them, in prison or dead.”
This demonstration precedes a key decision by a panel of Supreme Court justices regarding whether to proceed with charges against Bolsonaro and his affiliates. His son, Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, called for collective support for those politically imprisoned, referencing over 400 convictions tied to the January riots.
Experts note that Bolsonaro’s efforts to present himself and his supporters as innocent patriots are strategic in light of the impending Supreme Court decisions. Political scientist Paulo Henrique Cassimiro remarked on the potential political gain for Bolsonaro in seeking amnesty from Congress should he strengthen his support base, despite the rally’s lower-than-expected turnout.
Law professor Thiago Bottino predicted that a formal trial against Bolsonaro appears likely, highlighting that multiple evidential elements are present to support prosecution. In solidarity, student Cassiane Sousa expressed hope for Bolsonaro’s movement, exemplifying the enduring fervor among his supporters despite ongoing legal challenges.
The rally at Copacabana Beach illustrated the complex and contentious political landscape surrounding Jair Bolsonaro. As Bolsonaro faces serious accusations related to a coup attempt, his supporters gathered to advocate for amnesty for those arrested during related riots. While experts suggest a trial is probable, the event reflects Bolsonaro’s ongoing influence among his base, though recent turnout may signify a reduction in his political clout. Ultimately, the outcomes of both public rallies and judicial proceedings will be critical in shaping Brazil’s political future.
Original Source: apnews.com
