Brazil’s Congress overrode President Lula’s veto to pass a bill that would reduce Jair Bolsonaro’s 27-year sentence for leading the coup plot, signaling a major political win for Bolsonaro’s camp ahead of the October presidential election.

Bolsonaro began his sentence in November and is currently under house arrest for health reasons, and it remains unclear how much time he will serve once the new law is reviewed.

The new law changes how multiple-offense sentences are calculated, applying only the sentence for the most serious crime plus a possible within-range increase, potentially shortening Bolsonaro’s sentence after Supreme Court review.

Flávio Bolsonaro, Jair Bolsonaro’s son, spoke about the elections with determination to govern if blessed by God.

Analysts link the rapid political moves to ongoing electoral competition, noting Lula’s near-equal polling with Flávio Bolsonaro in a likely tight race.

Parliamentary tensions ran high during the session, with Bolsonaro supporters urging amnesty and opponents warning of democratic dangers and the rise of the far right.

The CIDH cautioned that, despite progress, efforts to grant amnesty continue, and three pre-candidates—Flávio Bolsonaro, Ronaldo Caiado, and Romeu Zema—have signaled possible support for amnesty if elected.

Observers think Bolsonaro’s influence may persist beyond the ruling, with implications for federal investigations and Brazil’s broader political dynamics.

Bolsonaro has denied all charges, claiming a left-wing judicial witch hunt; he has been moved to house arrest for bronchopneumonia recovery.

The veto override passed with strong cross-party majorities: 318-144 in the Chamber and 49-24 in the Senate, reflecting broad support for the new sentencing approach.