Brazil’s ex-President Lula goes from leader to defendant in graft case

World Today

Former Brazilian president Luiz Inacio “Lula” da Silva has made his first appearance in court as a defendant in a case connected to the far-reaching so-called “Car Wash” corruption probe.


Lula calls the case big on suspense, but little on substance. Still, many predict he’ll be convicted by a judge.

CGTN’s Paulo Cabral spoke with Lula supporters in Sao Paulo.

Brazil’s former President remained defiant in his first deposition before federal Judge Sergio Moro as a defendant in one of the cases of the so-called Car Wash Corruption probe.

 In this trial – one of five to be held against Lula – he’s accused of being given a seaside penthouse from construction company OAS — in exchange for political favors. Lula denies ownership of the apartment.

Despite all he’s facing, Lula still ranks in opinion polls as the leading presidential contender in the 2018 elections.  But he could be banned from running if he is found guilty of corruption charges in any of the five cases against him.