Brazil's political landscape has been dramatically reshaped as former far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, 70, commenced a 27-year prison sentence. The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued its final ruling, ordering Bolsonaro to begin serving time for his role in orchestrating a failed coup attempt to prevent Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva from assuming office after the 2022 elections. This definitive decision came after Bolsonaro exhausted all available appeals, solidifying the court’s judgment.
Bolsonaro's Detention and Alleged Flight Risk
Bolsonaro’s detention follows a period of house arrest, which concluded abruptly on Saturday when he was taken into custody at police headquarters in Brasilia. The former president reportedly tampered with his ankle monitor using a soldering iron, leading to his direct imprisonment. He is currently held in a secure room within the headquarters, equipped with a television, mini-fridge, and air-conditioning.
Concerns about potential flight attempts were highlighted by Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes. The justice pointed to signs of Bolsonaro planning an escape during a vigil organized by his son outside his home, and noted Bolsonaro's significant ties to former US President Donald Trump and the proximity of the US embassy, suggesting he might have sought political asylum. Bolsonaro, however, denied any intention to flee, attributing his actions to "paranoia" induced by medications, as reported by AP.
Co-Accused, Fugitives, and Family Charges
The crackdown extends beyond the former president. Five of Bolsonaro's co-accused, including high-ranking military generals and former ministers, also began serving their respective sentences, which range from 19 to 26 years. Notably, his former intelligence chief, Alexandre Ramagem, who received a 16-year sentence, has been declared a fugitive after reportedly escaping to the United States. Adding to the family's legal woes, Bolsonaro’s son, Congressman Eduardo Bolsonaro, was also charged on Tuesday for alleged obstruction of justice, specifically for promoting measures by Trump aimed at interfering with his father's trial.
Defense Appeals and Health Concerns
Bolsonaro’s defense lawyer, Paulo Cunha Bueno, expressed surprise at the swift closure of the case, indicating plans to file another appeal. The defense team has also formally requested that Bolsonaro be permitted to serve his sentence at home, citing severe health risks. Bolsonaro suffers from chronic complications stemming from a 2018 campaign stabbing, requiring numerous follow-up surgeries. He also experiences persistent gastric-related hiccups that frequently leave him breathless and faint. His daughter, Carlos Bolsonaro, described him as "extremely fragile and psychologically devastated" after a recent visit, remarking on his significantly reduced food intake and his firm belief in his innocence.
Political Fallout and Future Elections
The former president, who governed from 2019 to 2022, continues to assert his innocence, claiming to be a victim of political persecution. His incarceration leaves a substantial void in leadership for Brazil's large conservative electorate, particularly as the country looks ahead to the 2026 presidential elections. Incumbent President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, 80, has already announced his intention to seek a fourth term. Ironically, Lula himself experienced a year and a half in jail on corruption charges before his conviction was ultimately overturned by the Supreme Court, a twist of fate that underscores the tumultuous nature of Brazilian politics.