Brazil Congress approves drastic cut to Bolsonaro's prison sentence

Brazil's Congress has overturned a presidential veto to significantly reduce former president Jair Bolsonaro's prison sentence for plotting a coup after the 2022 election.

Bolsonaro was originally sentenced to 27 years in jail for his role in attempting to cling to power following his electoral defeat to Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

The veto, issued by President Lula, aimed to block a bill that changed how prison sentences are calculated, which would reduce Bolsonaro's term to just over two years.

However, in a tense session, more than two thirds of Congress voted to override the veto, passing the legislation despite Lula's opposition.

Bolsonaro, aged 71, has been under temporary house arrest since March due to ill health.

The Supreme Court found that Bolsonaro was aware of plans to assassinate Lula and his vice-presidential running mate, Geraldo Alckmin, but the conspiracy failed without support from senior military leaders.

Lula was sworn in without incident on 1 January 2023.

The congressional decision marks a significant political development amid ongoing tensions in Brazil.

It represents a setback for the left-wing government and comes as Lula campaigns for a fourth presidential term.

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