Brazil’s Lula Says His Prosecution Is Politically Motivated

Former Brazilian President Luiz Inacio “Lula” da Silva said on Thursday that his prosecution, which he claims is based on unsubstantiated evidence, is politically motivated. 

RELATED:
Lula Proposes Leftist Alliance for Brazil's 2018 Elections

During a televised press conference, the 71-year-old Workers’ Party, PT, leader said the move is intended to destroy his group’s reputation ahead of the 2018 elections.

“We have to understand this as a political dispute,” Lula said. 

“They don't want to condemn Lula. They want to condemn our political project.”

Lula was sentenced on Wednesday to nine years and six months over corruption charges in the Operation Car Wash investigations.

He was condemned for passive corruption crimes and money laundering, as well as allegedly receiving bribes of about US$1.15 million. However, prison time has not been applied as the prosecution awaits an appeal.

The PT leader added that the investigation and charges were based on news reports that provided no substantial proof and a blank document without any names or signatures that prosecutors want to pass as evidence of corruption.

“They want to eliminate me from the political game. If they think that this will leave me out, know that I'm still in the political game,” Lula said.

“As my enemies are defying me, I'm calling on them to present one piece of solid evidence against me. There isn't any proof that I committed such crimes.”

PT President Gleisi Hoffmann echoed Lula’s statements, claiming the conviction was “eminently political” and serves as a “provocation to democracy.” The recently-elected party leader said her group will team up with social movements across the country to continue protests against the ruling.