Brazil General Implicated in Plot to Kill Lula, Alckmin, Moraes

The beating heart of Brazil’s democracy froze in July 2025 as court records revealed a chilling confession: General Mário Fernandes, a senior figure in former President Jair Bolsonaro’s administration, admitted drafting a plan inside the presidential palace to assassinate President-elect Lula da Silva. This explosive admission exposes a Lula assassination plot that targeted the nation’s highest leadership and laid bare fractures within Brazil’s democratic institutions. The revelation sends shockwaves through Latin America’s largest economy, raising urgent questions about political stability and the rule of law.

Lula assassination plot

Brazil General Admits to Lula Assassination Plot in Palace

According to official court transcripts, Fernandes confessed to creating and printing the document titled “Punhal Verde e Amarelo” (Green and Yellow Dagger) within the presidential complex following Lula’s 2022 election victory. The plan explicitly called for the kidnapping and murder of not only Lula but also Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes. Fernandes claimed it was merely a “risk analysis,” not intended for distribution, and stated he shredded the physical copy. Federal Police reports, however, paint a far darker picture:

• The blueprint detailed using military rifles, grenades, and poison to eliminate targets.
• It assigned code names to Lula, Alckmin, and Moraes while outlining logistics for a military takeover.
• The goal was to install a military junta to govern until new elections could be held.

Court documents reveal investigators traced communications between Bolsonaro allies and military/police officers discussing the plot. While Fernandes insists no actionable steps were taken, the Federal Police emphasized the “high-level government involvement” and use of official resources made this a severe threat to national security.

Political and Economic Fallout of Uncovered Plot

The disclosure has ignited alarm across Brazil’s political and business spheres. Investors reacted with immediate concern, fearing prolonged instability could undermine economic reforms and foreign investment in critical sectors like energy and agriculture. International analysts from institutions like the Wilson Center and Council on Foreign Relations warn such internal threats erode foundational trust in democratic processes. Key implications include:

• Democratic Vulnerability: The plot’s origin within the presidential palace suggests alarming divisions among Brazil’s security apparatus.
• Regional Stability: As Latin America’s largest economy, Brazil’s political health impacts neighboring markets and governance trends.
• Judicial Reckoning: Supreme Court Justice Moraes, himself a target, now oversees investigations into whether this was part of a broader effort to overturn election results.

Fernandes’ testimony is part of an ongoing probe into anti-democratic acts during Brazil’s post-election turmoil. While no evidence yet confirms the plot moved beyond planning, the brazenness of its conception within government halls has amplified calls for institutional reforms.

This confession isn’t just about one general—it’s a distress flare for Brazilian democracy. When those sworn to protect the state instead conspire to decapitate it, both economic futures and fundamental freedoms hang in the balance. Vigilance and accountability are non-negotiable. Demand transparency as this investigation unfolds.

Must Know

Q: Who was targeted in the assassination plot?
A: The plan named President-elect Lula da Silva, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes. Codenames were used to disguise their identities in the document.

Q: Did the plot advance beyond the planning stage?
A: According to Federal Police reports (July 2025), no evidence confirms the plot moved beyond the document. General Fernandes claimed he destroyed the only copy and never shared it.

Q: What was the intended outcome of the plot?
A: Per court records, conspirators aimed to install a military-led government to rule Brazil until new elections could be organized, bypassing the democratically elected administration.

Q: How was the plot discovered?
A: Fernandes admitted to the plan during sworn testimony to investigators examining post-election anti-democratic acts. Digital footprints and witness accounts corroborated his involvement.

Q: What happens next in the investigation?
A: Brazil’s Supreme Court continues examining whether the plot was part of a wider conspiracy to overturn the 2022 election results. Further indictments are possible.

Q: How has Brazil’s government responded?
A: President Lula’s administration has reaffirmed commitment to judicial independence while urging calm. Enhanced security protocols for officials were implemented.