The indictment has been welcomed by many Brazilian politicians and campaigners as a vital step for democracy, although Bolsonaro's son dismissed it as 'empty.'

Reactions to the charges highlight the deep political divisions in Brazil, with supporters calling for Bolsonaro's imprisonment while the opposition defends him.

Even if acquitted, Bolsonaro's legal challenges will persist, as he is reportedly seeking a pardon for those involved in the January 8 riot, viewing it as a path to political re-entry.

Legal experts suggest Bolsonaro's response to the charges is part of a political strategy aimed at discrediting the prosecutor's report, which is based on factual evidence.

Unlike the U.S., where Donald Trump returned to power, Brazil's judiciary has demonstrated resilience against threats to democracy, stripping Bolsonaro of his passive voting rights until mid-2030.

Legal experts consider the charges historic, reflecting Brazil's strong institutional integrity in upholding democracy.

The charges are supported by various forms of evidence, including manuscripts and digital communications, indicating a systematic effort to disrupt Brazil's democratic order.

In total, 34 individuals, including Bolsonaro, are implicated in actions against the three branches of government and the rule of law.

Bolsonaro's fate may hinge on a 5-judge panel of the Supreme Court, which does not include judges he appointed, with no set deadline for their decision.

This article is part of an ongoing story that will be updated with further developments.

President Lula emphasized that everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty, but if found guilty, the accused will face consequences for their actions.

Brazil's prosecutor-general has charged former President Jair Bolsonaro with attempting a coup following his defeat in the 2022 election, alleging a plot that included plans to poison current President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and assassinate Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes.