Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil's ex-president, is in intensive care following surgery while also preparing for a legal trial concerning alleged coup attempts after the 2022 election loss. The unfolding situation raises questions about his political future as he faces potential imprisonment.
Bolsonaro's Health Declines Amid Legal Turmoil
Bolsonaro's Health Declines Amid Legal Turmoil
The former president of Brazil faces serious health challenges as he grapples with coup charges after being hospitalized for surgery.
The health of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has taken a downturn following intestinal surgery earlier this month, as reported by his medical team. At 70 years old, Bolsonaro is currently receiving treatment in intensive care and will undergo additional medical tests to assess his condition.
On Wednesday, a court official visited him in the hospital to deliver a summons, requiring Bolsonaro to present his initial defense within five days against charges related to a purported right-wing coup attempt. This comes as he prepares for a trial linked to allegations that he attempted to subvert the government after losing the 2022 presidential election to left-wing President Lula da Silva.
The situation escalated after Bolsonaro’s supporters were accused of storming government buildings during the alleged coup attempt. Investigations revealed that Bolsonaro allegedly discussed plans for a coup with military figures and associates. He has vocally denied these accusations, insisting they stem from what he perceives as a political witch-hunt by his opponents.
Bolsonaro's recent surgery was necessary due to health complications arising from a stabbing incident in 2018 during his campaign, which led him to lose approximately 40% of his blood and undergo emergency surgery. While recuperating, he expressed outrage upon receiving the summons, questioning, "I have five days to present my defense?"
Despite his current health issues, Bolsonaro made headlines when he recorded a live YouTube broadcast from his hospital bed with three of his sons, a move doctors had advised against. The Brazilian Supreme Court has interpreted this as an indication that he is fit to receive legal notifications.
Looking ahead, Bolsonaro has expressed intentions to contest the presidential elections again in 2026, even though he currently faces a prohibition from running for office. However, if found guilty of the coup charges, he risks a lengthy prison sentence of up to 40 years.
