Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro's health has deteriorated after recent intestinal surgery, amidst looming coup charges that could lead to a long prison sentence.
Brazil's Former President Bolsonaro Faces Health Crisis Amid Coup Charges
Brazil's Former President Bolsonaro Faces Health Crisis Amid Coup Charges
The former leader is in intensive care following surgery, while legal troubles mount.
The health condition of Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil's former president, has taken a turn for the worse following an intestinal surgery earlier this month, as reported by his medical team. At 70 years old, Bolsonaro is currently in intensive care and will be subjected to further medical tests.
On Wednesday, a court official visited the former leader's hospital room to deliver a legal summons demanding he submit his initial defense within five days against accusations of orchestrating a coup. These charges stem from events that occurred after his defeat in the 2022 presidential elections to leftist President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. During the alleged coup attempt, Bolsonaro's supporters were reported to have stormed government buildings, escalating tensions in the country.
Video footage captured Bolsonaro's intense reaction when informed about the legal summons, where he expressed outrage at being given only five days to respond. Investigative authorities have suggested that Bolsonaro engaged in private discussions with key figures, including military leaders, regarding the potential for a coup to retain power.
Bolsonaro's recent surgery follows a series of health complications that have plagued him since a stabbing incident in 2018 during his campaign, which resulted in severe injuries. After losing approximately 40% of his blood at that time, he underwent emergency surgery, while the assailant was deemed mentally unfit for trial.
Despite his health struggles, Bolsonaro has maintained he is the victim of a political witch-hunt, refuting coup allegations against him. The Brazilian Supreme Court has determined that his ability to communicate, illustrated by a recent live YouTube session from his hospital bed with his sons, signifies he can be summoned for legal proceedings.
In light of his ongoing legal challenges, Bolsonaro's political aspirations for a revival in the 2026 presidential elections face hurdles, especially considering the possibility of a 40-year prison sentence if convicted.
