In a recent ruling, Debora Rodrigues, a 39-year-old hairdresser, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for her actions during January riots in Brasilia, where supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro protested following his election loss. Her offense? Writing an insulting message on a statue with lipstick, calling out the new president, Lula da Silva. This incident has been dubbed the "lipstick coup."
Rodrigues, who claimed she was merely a participant in peaceful protests, faced not just graffiti charges but was also implicated in various offenses including property destruction and being part of a criminal conspiracy. Despite her defense asserting that she acted spontaneously, the court maintained she willingly supported anti-democratic actions during the unrest.
The case has sparked significant debate, with Bolsonaro's supporters labeling her judgment as political persecution, arguing that the Supreme Court exercises excessive power. The controversy continues to fuel discussions around political freedom and the ongoing legal troubles surrounding Bolsonaro himself, who is also under scrutiny for his role in the coup attempt.
Rodrigues, who claimed she was merely a participant in peaceful protests, faced not just graffiti charges but was also implicated in various offenses including property destruction and being part of a criminal conspiracy. Despite her defense asserting that she acted spontaneously, the court maintained she willingly supported anti-democratic actions during the unrest.
The case has sparked significant debate, with Bolsonaro's supporters labeling her judgment as political persecution, arguing that the Supreme Court exercises excessive power. The controversy continues to fuel discussions around political freedom and the ongoing legal troubles surrounding Bolsonaro himself, who is also under scrutiny for his role in the coup attempt.
