Brazil's Supreme Court Upholds Bolsonaro's Detention After Ankle Monitor Breach
Brazil's highest judicial authority has affirmed the detention of former President Jair Bolsonaro. On Monday, the Supreme Court unanimously voted to maintain Bolsonaro's imprisonment, which commenced over the weekend following his arrest for allegedly tampering with his electronic ankle monitor using a soldering iron.
Wilful Violation and Flight Risk Concerns
Justice Alexandre de Moraes, a prominent figure in the Supreme Court, explicitly stated that Bolsonaro had "willfully and consciously violated the electronic monitoring equipment." This decisive ruling was supported by the three other justices in the court's first chamber, solidifying the former leader's detention at the close of the virtual session at 8 pm local time.
Bolsonaro, a staunch far-right politician, was initially taken into custody from his residence on Saturday. He had been under house arrest previously, having been designated a flight risk by a judge. This designation came as he pursues an appeal against a substantial 27-year sentence.
Background: Coup Plot Allegations and Conviction
The conviction, handed down in September, stemmed from his alleged involvement in a scheme to obstruct President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's ascension to power after the 2022 elections. This plot reportedly included plans for the assassination of the leftist leader.
The Supreme Court's firm stance underscores the gravity of Bolsonaro's actions, particularly Justice Moraes's reiteration of "very serious indications of a possible attempt to flee." These concerns were heightened by a planned vigil, reportedly organized by Bolsonaro’s son, outside his father’s home. The legal proceedings continue to unfold in a case that has captivated the nation and highlighted the deep political divisions within Brazil.