Brazilian former president Jair Bolsonaro is facing his first indictment since leaving office, as police recommend that he be prosecuted for allegedly falsifying his COVID vaccination certificate. The federal police have accused Bolsonaro and 16 others of plotting to issue false certificates, which could potentially lead to charges of criminal association and insertion of false data into the public system, carrying a maximum sentence of 12 years behind bars.
Bolsonaro’s defense team claims that the ex-president was unaware of any falsification and that whoever did so acted independently. However, a close aide has confessed to entering fake data for Bolsonaro and his daughter. The former president has faced criticism for his handling of the pandemic, with public health records showing he received the vaccine fraudulently.
In addition to the vaccine certificate forgery, Bolsonaro is also embroiled in other legal challenges, including allegations of trying to smuggle expensive diamond jewelry into Brazil and an investigation into his alleged role in a January 8 uprising in Brasilia. Police are probing whether Bolsonaro planned a coup to stay in power after losing the 2022 election, which he suggested was rigged.
If charges are filed, Bolsonaro could face up to 12 years in prison. Analysts suggest that police investigations may conclude by July, potentially leading to Bolsonaro’s imprisonment. The former president’s legal troubles continue to mount as he faces multiple probes and potential criminal charges following his term in office.
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