Da Silva says the conviction and 12-year sentence amount to a "coup" by right-wing forces trying to prevent his return to office. Da Silva has won support abroad from figures including former U.S. presidential candidate Bernie Sanders and U.N.-appointed human rights experts. Da Silva backers argue there was no crime because neither he nor his late wife ever legally owned the apartment. Hundreds of businessmen and politicians, including many officials in da Silva's 2003-2010 administrations, were implicated. Da Silva and supporters argue that ensuring he can't run has always been part of the plan by opponents.

Source: ABC News August 29, 2018 15:20 UTC