Brazil’s Former President Bolsonaro Placed Under House Arrest by Supreme Court

Brazil’s Supreme Court has ordered former President Jair Bolsonaro to be placed under house arrest for violating a ban on the use of social media. The ruling was issued on Monday, August 4, by Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes.

As part of the court’s directive, Bolsonaro’s passport has been confiscated, and he has been prohibited from leaving the capital, Brasília. He has also been ordered to wear an electronic ankle monitor, and his movements will be strictly monitored.

The Supreme Court accuses Bolsonaro and his close allies of attempting to undermine democratic institutions, spreading false information about elections, and seeking support from the military to subvert democratic order.

Following his defeat in the 2022 presidential election, Bolsonaro’s supporters stormed government buildings in Brasília in a violent protest, which was widely condemned as a serious threat to Brazil’s democracy. Authorities allege that Bolsonaro played a role in inciting that attack.

Prior to this latest ruling, Bolsonaro had already been under surveillance for allegedly obstructing judicial proceedings. The court had also imposed restrictions on his public speeches and barred him from using social media platforms.

Since leaving office in January 2023, Bolsonaro has faced several investigations into allegations of corruption and abuse of power. He maintains that the charges against him are politically motivated and part of an attempt to silence opposition voices.

The outcome of the ongoing legal proceedings could have significant consequences for Brazil’s political landscape, particularly for the future of right-wing political movements in the country.