Ex-President of Brazil Jair Bolsonaro, 70, briefly broke from house arrest on Saturday to receive medical tests in Brasilia. Bolsonaro has been under house arrest since early August for purportedly violating a court order against social media use to appeal directly to the public. His attorneys asked that he be temporarily allowed out on grounds of gastrointestinal problems resulting from a stabbing attack on him in 2018 while he was campaigning for president.
Physicians said Bolsonaro had two recent episodes of pneumonia but is "recovering well." His surgeon, Claudio Birolini, confirmed oesophagitis inflammation and persistent reflux, suggesting more weight training because of limitations on exercise while in home isolation.
Bolsonaro's short visit to the medical center attracted around 20 of his supporters, brandishing Brazilian, Israeli, and American flags. Numerous people expressed optimism regarding his political future. "We are confident that Jair Bolsonaro will become president of Brazil in 2026," said one supporter waiting outside the hospital. The former president did not speak with the media before going back home.
The Supreme Court of Brazil will start hearing its verdict against Bolsonaro's attempted coup on September 2. The right-wing ex-leader stands accused of trying to hold on to power after his loss in the 2022 elections against incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Conviction would mean he could face up to 40 years behind bars.
Bolsonaro has still refused to admit any wrongdoing and has been endorsed by former US President Donald Trump, who declared the trial a "witch hunt." Trump also levied a 50 percent tariff on various Brazilian exports on the grounds of Bolsonaro's "politically motivated persecution."
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