Brazil’s top federal prosecutor charged President Michel Temer with taking multimillion-dollar bribes on Monday in a stinging blow to the unpopular leader and to political stability in Latin America’s largest country. Lawmakers within Temer’s coalition are confident they have the votes to block the two-third majority required to proceed with a trial. Temer and one-third of his cabinet, as well as four former presidents and dozens of lawmakers are under investigation or already charged in the schemes. Executives said in plea-bargain testimony the president took bribes for resolving tax matters, freeing up loans from state-run banks and other matters. But the president is expected to soon face charges of racketeering and obstruction of justice, each requiring a separate vote.

Source: Dhaka Tribune June 27, 2017 04:30 UTC