In a dramatic turn of events, Brazil’s Supreme Court has mandated the preemptive arrest of former President Jair Bolsonaro, just days before he was scheduled to commence a 27-year prison sentence for orchestrating a coup attempt. The decision, issued by Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, underscores the gravity of the charges against Bolsonaro, who was swiftly transferred from house arrest to the federal police headquarters in Brasília early Saturday morning. Justice de Moraes emphasized that the arrest should be conducted with dignity, prohibiting the use of handcuffs and media exposure. Bolsonaro’s aide, Andriely Cirino, confirmed the arrest occurred around 6 a.m., following the unexpected ruling. The 70-year-old former president was taken from his residence in the affluent Jardim Botânico neighborhood to the federal police facility. The arrest follows a controversial video released by Bolsonaro’s son, Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, which allegedly incited supporters to protest in defense of his father. Justice de Moraes condemned the video, stating it promoted disrespect for democratic institutions and sought to incite chaos. Bolsonaro’s conviction stems from his role in a failed coup attempt after his 2022 election loss to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Prosecutors revealed the plot included plans to assassinate Lula and instigate an insurrection. Despite his legal troubles, Bolsonaro remains a significant political figure, with polls suggesting he would be a formidable candidate in future elections if eligible. His case has drawn international attention, with U.S. President Donald Trump labeling the trial a ‘witch hunt.’ The arrest marks a pivotal moment in Brazil’s ongoing struggle to uphold democratic principles.
Brazil’s Supreme Court orders Bolsonaro’s arrest ahead of prison sentence
