Brazil's Supreme Court rules against military intervention

Brazil's Supreme Court has made a significant ruling, unanimously deciding that the armed forces do not have the constitutional authority to intervene in disputes between government branches. This decision comes as a response to claims made by former President Jair Bolsonaro and his supporters, who argued that Article 142 of Brazil's Constitution granted the military a 'moderating power' over the branches of government. The court's ruling serves as a crucial message to society that military intervention lacks a constitutional basis.

The Brazilian Constitution, established in 1988 following a 21-year military dictatorship, has been a focal point of debate amid Bolsonaro's presidency. Bolsonaro's close ties to the military, including appointing high-ranking officers to key positions, raised concerns about a potential return to authoritarian rule. His refusal to accept electoral defeat and the subsequent storming of government buildings by his supporters further fueled fears of military intervention.

The court's decision reaffirms the importance of upholding democratic principles and serves as a deterrent against justifications for a coup. While the historic relationship between the military and civil order remains complex, the ruling aims to dispel any misinterpretations of the constitution that could lead to further unrest. The government's efforts to address misinformation within the armed forces underscore the ongoing challenges in ensuring a peaceful transition of power and upholding the rule of law.