Brazilian officials have mandated that former President Jair Bolsonaro wear an ankle monitor following an incident at his residence. On July 18, local law enforcement executed a search at his home and subsequently required him to wear an electronic tagging device. In addition to this, he is prohibited from contacting any foreign officials and reaching out to embassies, and he cannot use social media platforms.
This decision came from the Supreme Federal Court (STF), led by Judge Alexandre de Moraes. On that day, Moraes, along with five other judges, outlined several precautionary measures, including a search warrant and a restraining order against Bolsonaro.
- Prohibition against contacting foreign diplomats
- Prohibition on approaching embassies
- Mandatory ankle monitor usage
- Bans on social media platforms
The court expressed concerns over the potential for Bolsonaro to flee, particularly given his prior attempts to seek foreign involvement in Brazil’s judicial matters, which the court views as a violation of national sovereignty.
Amid allegations that Bolsonaro was plotting a coup to disrupt President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s transition to office in 2023, the court believes this could have significant implications for domestic legal processes and may pose as a threat to communications and travel.
Despite the accusations, Bolsonaro has denied any wrongdoing.
Federal investigators have reportedly accused Bolsonaro and his son, Eduardo, of conspiring with the U.S. to impose penalties on Brazilian officials. According to court documents, this act allegedly stands to benefit Bolsonaro and his financial backers.
Reports have surfaced that federal agents seized an undisclosed amount of cash, while Bolsonaro insists it was about $14,000 meant for personal use. Authorities, however, confirmed the seizure of approximately that same amount.
Bolsonaro described the mandate for the ankle monitor as “the most humiliating” experience but insisted he has no intentions of leaving Brazil. He remarked, “I’m the former president of the Republic – I’m 70 years old,” and referred to speculation about fleeing as “exaggeration.”
Interestingly, on the same day, former President Donald Trump reached out to Bolsonaro, suggesting that he too has fallen prey to an “unjust system.” Bolsonaro later shared this sentiment in a video on X, expressing gratitude for Trump’s ongoing support.
As the trial looms, Bolsonaro has downplayed any notions that he could be considered a flight risk. He stated, “I’m faced with the process.”
If found guilty of orchestrating a coup, Bolsonaro may face between 38 and 43 years in prison. He is among 34 individuals charged with five offenses, which include purported coup attempts. Prosecutors allege that the conspiracy involved plans to assassinate President Lula, as well as Vice President and Supreme Court officials.
