Brazil’s Supreme Court Orders House Arrest of Jair Bolsonaro Over Alleged Coup Plot

Amid Brazil’s political crisis, the Supreme Court on Monday ordered former President Jair Bolsonaro to be placed under house arrest, as he stands trial for allegedly orchestrating a plot to overturn the country’s 2022 presidential election.

The court’s decision follows a wave of pro-Bolsonaro protests held across Brazil on Sunday, in which thousands rallied in support of the embattled far-right leader. 

Image Source: sensacionalista on X

Bolsonaro is accused of conspiring to subvert the democratic process after losing the election to Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who returned to the presidency in a stunning political comeback.

The charges center around Bolsonaro’s alleged efforts to delegitimize the election, promote false claims of voter fraud, and encourage military or institutional support to block the transition of power. 

The investigation includes leaked audio and testimony that prosecutors claim show Bolsonaro and his allies drafting a decree to annul the vote and maintain power unlawfully.

The house arrest order marks a significant legal escalation against the former president, who has long styled himself as an anti-establishment figure and remains highly polarizing in Brazilian politics. 

Bolsonaro has denied any wrongdoing, calling the charges politically motivated and framing the investigation as an attack on conservatism in Brazil.

More details are expected in the coming hours, including conditions of the house arrest, duration, and whether Bolsonaro will face further restrictions on public communication or political activity.