Brazilian judge overturns ex-President Lula’s conviction

By James Blears

The so-called Operation Car Wash scandal swept over ex Brazilian President Lula Da Silva. He was jailed for 12 years, and eventually served eighteen months behind bars.

Now, Supreme Court judge Edson Fachin, has set aside and quashed those convictions, which Lula himself always condemned as a witch hunt.

The judge ruled that these sort of charges could only have been tried by a Federal Court and none other.

The full Supreme Court must now consider the ruling, but it can only be overturned and reversed if the original convictions were to be re-activated.

So, Lula’s full political rights, including the capability to launch a bid for a presidential election, are restored forthwith.

Return to politics

He was jailed in 2018, after being convicted of accepting bribes for the renovation of a beachside residence. He has always denied the charges.

Lula’s lawyers say he’s now been fully vindicated. He himself says it was all a political vendetta.

President of Brazil from 2003-2010, Lula revitalized the economy, pulling millions out of the poverty trap. He left office riding on a crest of enormous nationwide popularity.

As things now stand, Lula could contest next year’s presidential election. President Jair Bolsonaro is expected to seek re-election.