The verdict and sentencing stage has begun in the trial of Brazil’s former far-right President Jair Bolsonaro , who faces charges of leading a conspiracy to remain in power after losing the 2022 election.

This comes after the prosecution presented its case in July, while the defence concluded arguments in mid-August. Brazil’s Supreme Court has scheduled sessions until September 12 to reach a verdict.

Bolsonaro, who denies any wrongdoing, is charged with five counts, including attempting to stage a coup, plotting the assassination of current leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and a Supreme Court justice, and involvement in an armed criminal organisation.

Al Jazeera’s Monica Yanakiew, reporting from Brasilia, said the former president “was not going to attend at least, not his

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