When Jair Bolsonaro was Brazil’s president, trumpeter Fabiano Leitão often played the anti-fascist anthem “Bella Ciao” near him. Now, as Bolsonaro faces serious legal troubles, Leitão is shifting gears. After Bolsonaro was charged with plotting a coup, Leitão performed Chopin’s “Funeral March.” It’s a fitting tribute, reflecting the sentiment many hold about Bolsonaro’s political downfall.
Leitão plans to celebrate during the upcoming court verdict. “It has to be something joyful!” he said, hinting at samba classics to mark the occasion. Many in Brazil feel a sense of optimism as the trial of Bolsonaro and others accused of conspiracy unfolds this week.
The Supreme Court judges will decide on charges that Bolsonaro masterminded a failed coup following his election defeat to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in 2022. Legal experts mostly believe a conviction is likely, with a phrase on many lips: justice could amount to 43 years behind bars. Bolsonaro faces five serious charges, including coup d’état and attempts to dismantle democracy.
The conspiracy investigation, dubbed “Operation Green and Yellow Dagger,” suggests plans to create chaos in the nation, allegedly involving plots to assassinate high-ranking officials, including Lula and key judges overseeing Bolsonaro’s case. Prosecutors argue that the only reason the coup failed was that key military leaders refused to support it.
Eloísa Machado, a constitutional law expert, stated, “There’s so much evidence… It’s really hard to imagine an acquittal.” This confidence echoes among many Brazilians looking for accountability after years of political turmoil.
During Bolsonaro’s presidency from 2019 to 2022, thousands died in Brazil due to a mishandled COVID-19 response, which many blame on his administration. Leitão, an activist trumpeter, views this trial as a chance for Brazil to heal. “It’s a moment of liberation for the country,” he remarked, noting that Brazil’s democracy is more resilient than it may seem, especially compared to the U.S. situation with Trump.
Speaking of Trump, he recently criticized the trial, claiming it’s a “political execution.” Bolsonaro’s supporters have been lobbying in Washington, hoping U.S. pressure could alter the court’s trajectory. Yet, Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, leading the trial, has vowed independence from external influences, stating, “We’ll do what’s right.”
Bolsonaro, currently under house arrest for violating social media restrictions, has denied orchestrating a coup but acknowledged considering alternative ways to stay in power. He remains intent on making a political comeback, albeit the Supreme Court has barred him from running until 2030.
In the meantime, Leitão is refusing to let the moment pass without a musical farewell. Shortly after learning of Bolsonaro’s house arrest, he grabbed his trumpet and played upbeat pieces outside Bolsonaro’s residence. “The message is that it’s over,” he remarked, signifying not just a personal victory but a potential shift in Brazil’s political landscape.
As Brazil looks toward its future, many are quietly hopeful for accountability and renewal. The upcoming trial may just be a first step in a long and complex healing process for a nation eager to redefine its democratic ideals.
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