SAO PAULO — Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil's former head of state currently serving a 27-year prison term for his role in an attempted government overthrow, has been authorized to temporarily exit confinement for a hernia operation. The authorization came on Friday, though the exact timing of the medical procedure remains unspecified.
Medical Necessity Confirmed
Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes approved the temporary release after federal police physicians verified the surgical requirement. Medical professionals indicate the hernia condition affects both groin areas and causes discomfort for the former president.
Since being stabbed in the abdomen during a 2018 campaign event, Bolsonaro has undergone multiple surgical interventions. His tenure as Brazil's leader spanned from 2019 through 2022.
Post-Surgical Arrangements
Justice de Moraes, who presided over Bolsonaro's trial and imposed the prison sentence, rejected the former president's subsequent petition for house arrest following his hospital stay.
Authorities describe Bolsonaro's confinement conditions at the federal police headquarters in Brasilia as including a 12-square-meter room with sleeping accommodations, private bathroom facilities, climate control, television, and work space. He remains isolated from other detainees at the facility.
The imprisoned former leader maintains regular access to his medical team and legal representatives, while other visitors require Supreme Court authorization for access.
Legal Background
Bolsonaro and several associates were found guilty by Supreme Court justices for their efforts to subvert Brazil's democratic system after his electoral defeat in 2022. The conspiracy included designs to assassinate President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and Justice de Moraes, along with plans to incite rebellion in early 2023.
Additional convictions addressed charges of leading an armed criminal organization and attempting to violently dismantle democratic governance structures. Bolsonaro continues to assert his innocence regarding all allegations.
