Brazil Bans Bolsonaro From Elections until 2030

Brazil's highest electoral court has issued a decision banning former President Jair Bolsonaro from seeking re-election until 2030, accusing the politician of abusing power and spreading disinformation during the country's recent elections.

The ruling is based primarily on the allegation that Bolsonaro used government communication channels, state television and the presidential palace to cast doubt on Brazil's electronic voting system.

In their majority ruling, the justices affirmed the strong evidence supporting a meeting on July 18, 2022, where Bolsonaro published allegations of election fraud.

According to political experts, this decision is likely to significantly reduce Bolsonaro's chances of returning to the presidency.

While he may try to overcome legal challenges and maintain his political clout, the prospect of regaining the presidency seems doubtful.

Moreover, the ruling also prohibits his participation in the 2024 and 2028 municipal elections and prevents him from running in the 2026 general elections.

Bolsonaro is currently facing a number of legal battles that could have serious repercussions if he is convicted.

The judgmeny marks a precedent in Brazilian history where a former president was suspended for electoral violations rather than criminal offenses, according to the country's law that prohibits candidates with criminal sentences from running for office.

The court's decision triggered a variety of reactions from the public. Some view the ruling as a guarantee of Brazilian democracy, while others question the underlying political motivations.