Brazil's Congress Approves Plan to Drastically Cut Bolsonaro's Jail Term
Brazil's Congress has approved a bill that would substantially reduce the prison sentence former president Jair Bolsonaro is facing in his coup-attempt case. The vote reignites tensions between the Lula government and the right-wing opposition. The Supreme Court is expected to have the final say.
The bill approved by Brazil's Congress significantly reduces sentences for those convicted over the 8 January 2023 storming of the country's main institutions. One of the principal beneficiaries is widely seen as former president Jair Bolsonaro, who was convicted last year for his role in coup-attempt plotting.
The Lula government is preparing to veto the legislation, but the congressional majority appears strong enough to override that veto. Constitutional scholars say much will hinge on how the Supreme Federal Tribunal applies the new rules to individual cases.
The vote has reignited Brazil's polarised political climate. Thousands of Bolsonaro supporters rallied in São Paulo, while Lula supporters denounced the bill as "amnesty for putschists". The real weakened against the dollar during trading hours.
More from South America
Laura Fernandez Sworn In as Costa Rica's New President, Vows War on Crime
Laura Fernandez was sworn in as Costa Rica's new president at a ceremony in San Jose, vowing a "war" on the country's record homicide rates. The new government also signalled a balanced foreign policy amid US-China tensions. Security and the cost of living top her in-tray.
Three dead after monster truck crashes into crowd
A monster truck crashed into a crowd at a show in Colombia, killing at least three people and injuring 38. The incident raises fresh concerns about public safety at large events.
Colombia announces record $1.4 million bounty for rebel leader blamed in bomb attack
Colombia's government announced a record $1.4 million bounty for a rebel commander known as "Marlon," blamed for orchestrating a bomb attack that killed 20 people. The extraordinary reward underscores the government's intensified campaign against armed groups destabilizing the nation.