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Bolsonaro was taken from his house arrest and brought to the federal police headquarters in the capital, Brasilia. This action was taken on the orders of Brazil’s Supreme Court. Bolsonaro was convicted of plotting a coup. He was accused of attempting to overthrow the government, end democracy, and incite violence after losing the 2022 elections.
Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro delivers a speech during the swearing-in ceremony of his new Health Minister Nelson Teich (out of frame) at Planalto Palace in Brasilia, on April 17, 2020. - Teich replaces Luiz Henrique Mandetta, who had several disagreements with President Jair Bolsonaro in conducting the fight against the COVID-19. (Photo by EVARISTO SA / AFP)
Brazil: Brazilian federal police arrested former President Jair Bolsonaro on Saturday morning. This action came just days before Bolsonaro was set to begin his 27-year prison sentence. His aide, Andreali Cirino, said the arrest occurred around 6 a.m.
How and why was the arrest made?
According to police officials, Bolsonaro was taken from his house arrest and brought to the federal police headquarters in the capital, Brasilia. This action was taken on the orders of Brazil's Supreme Court. Bolsonaro was convicted of plotting a coup. He was accused of attempting to overthrow the government, end democracy, and incite violence after losing the 2022 elections.
The prosecution also stated in court that the plot included a plan to assassinate President Lula and an attempt to incite an uprising in early 2023. The court found him guilty of running an armed criminal organization and attempting to subvert the democratic system through violence.
Why is he being taken to jail?
Until now, Bolsonaro had been under house arrest, but Brazilian law requires anyone convicted to serve their sentence at the start of their sentence. Therefore, Saturday's arrest does not mean he will serve his sentence at police headquarters; he will be transferred to prison.
Reaction from Family and Supporters
Bolsonaro's son, Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, has been appealing to people on social media for the past two days to take to the streets in support of his father. Many supporters claim that Bolsonaro is the victim of a political conspiracy. In July, the US government imposed tariffs of up to 50% on several Brazilian exports, including an order mentioning Bolsonaro's name. However, Trump withdrew most of these increased tariffs on Friday.
