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Lula Vetoes Sentencing Bill That Would Have Eased Bolsonaro’s 27-Year Term

Congress may vote to overturn the decision next, with potential Supreme Court review looming.

Overview

  • Lula announced and signed the full veto during a ceremony marking the third anniversary of the January 8 attacks, presenting it as a defense of democracy.
  • The congressional measure barred cumulative sentencing and allowed transfer to semi-open or open regimes after roughly 16.6% of a sentence, which could have let Bolsonaro seek leniency after a little over two years.
  • Lawmakers who backed the bill in December can attempt to override the veto, setting up an immediate test of strength in Brasília.
  • Justice Minister Ricardo Lewandowski and government allies argue the proposal is unconstitutional and signal they would challenge any reinstatement before the Supreme Federal Court.
  • Bolsonaro is serving a 27-year sentence at the Federal Police facility in Brasília as the confrontation deepens tensions with centrist blocs in an election year.