Jair Bolsonaro Granted Temporary House Arrest for Health Reasons

The Supreme Federal Tribunal (STF) of Brazil authorized former President Jair Bolsonaro to serve his 27-year sentence under house arrest for humanitarian reasons following his hospitalization for bacterial pneumonia. Judge Alexandre de Moraes granted the temporary measure for an initial period of 90 days, contingent upon his medical discharge.

Key points

• Bolsonaro was sentenced to 27 years and three months in prison for five crimes against democracy, including an attempted coup d'état.
• The decision followed a favorable opinion from the Attorney General, Paulo Gonet, citing the need for constant medical monitoring.
• Previous requests for house arrest by Bolsonaro's lawyers had been systematically denied by the STF.
• The 71-year-old has suffered from health issues stemming from a 2018 stabbing attack, which recently led to his hospitalization.
• The ruling occurs amid high political tension with the 2026 electoral cycle opening in Brazil.

Why it matters

This decision marks a notable shift in the judicial handling of Bolsonaro's case, granting him a temporary reprieve from prison due to health concerns while his political allies pursue an amnesty law.