Brazil's Congress Slashes Bolsonaro's Jail Term

Brazil's Congress has reduced former President Jair Bolsonaro's 27-year prison sentence, a move expected to be contested in the Supreme Court. The decision, criticized by President Lula and related to charges of leading a coup attempt, could significantly reduce Bolsonaro's time under house arrest.

In a contentious decision on Thursday, Brazil's Congress voted to reduce the 27-year prison sentence of former President Jair Bolsonaro, opened to possible Supreme Court challenges. The reduction comes in the wake of Bolsonaro's conviction for leading a coup attempt.

Current President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva had previously vetoed the measure, but Congress overrode his veto amid the political landscape shaped by October's elections, where Lula faces strong opposition from Bolsonaro's camp.

The bill, which eases sentences for multiple crimes, might significantly lessen Bolsonaro's house arrest term and could also aid supporters sentenced on akin charges. The legal and political communities remain closely attentive to the unfolding ramifications.