Brazilian court orders immediate execution of former President Lula's prison sentence
Former President Lula was sentenced to 12 years in prison for corruption and asked for bail while he appealed but was refused.
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Former Brazilian President Lula da Silva. Photo:AFP. |
Brazil's Supreme Court said on Monday that former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva must immediately serve a 12-year prison sentence for corruption and bribery, a move that could end his political career.CNN.
Lula, who served as president of Brazil from 2003 to 2011, is considered a leading candidate in the upcoming election in October. However, five of the six judges rejected Lula's request for bail while he appeals.
Lula was indicted and convicted in July 2017 for allegedly accepting a luxury apartment from the OAS construction company worth $1.1 million. The charges were brought after his presidential term ended in early 2011.
Mr Lula said the charges against him were politically motivated and would prevent him from running for president. Mr Lula's Workers' Party called the court's decision a "tragic day for democracy and Brazil".
