The jailed ex-president of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro, has undergone a successful surgery for a double hernia, his wife Michelle says.
The former leader is serving a 27-year sentence for plotting a coup after he lost the 2022 presidential election to his left-wing rival, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
Brazil's Supreme Court granted permission for the 70-year-old to be transferred from the room in the federal police headquarters where he is serving his sentence to a hospital in the capital, Brasília, for the procedure.
Ahead of the surgery, Jair Bolsonaro endorsed the candidacy of his eldest son, Flávio, for the 2026 presidential race.
The former president made his decision known in a handwritten letter that was read out by Flávio Bolsonaro outside the hospital where his father is being treated. He expressed, During my life, I have fought tough battles, paying a high price with both my health and my family, to defend what I think is best for our country. I hand over what is most important in the life of a father - my own son for the mission of rescuing our country, Brazil.
Despite his conviction and imprisonment, Jair Bolsonaro continues to hold significant political sway, and President Lula has already announced plans for his own re-election campaign in the upcoming 2026 elections. Jair Bolsonaro's quick return to federal police headquarters is expected once doctors give the go-ahead.
