In brief
After undergoing intestinal surgery, Bolsonaro remains in intensive care and faces an impending trial over coup charges connected to the 2022 presidential election.
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro's health has taken a downturn following intestinal surgery earlier this month, as reported by his medical team. The 70-year-old is currently in intensive care, awaiting further tests to assess his condition. On Wednesday, a court official visited Bolsonaro in the hospital to deliver a summons, giving him just five days to prepare his defense against serious charges of attempting a coup after his electoral defeat in 2022 to leftist leader Lula da Silva. In the video capturing the moment the summons was handed over, Bolsonaro expressed outrage, exclaiming, "I have five days to present my defense?" His supporters' storming of government buildings during the supposed coup attempt has led to investigations revealing that Bolsonaro discussed coup plans with various military figures. Previously, Bolsonaro underwent surgery due to lingering health complications stemming from a stabbing incident during the 2018 campaign in Minas Gerais, where he lost approximately 40% of his blood and required emergency medical intervention. The assailant, deemed mentally unfit for trial, left a lasting impact on Bolsonaro's health. Despite facing coup accusations and a substantial legal battle, Bolsonaro has denied any wrongdoing, suggesting these allegations are part of a broader political vendetta against him. Just a day before receiving the legal summons, Bolsonaro had conducted a live YouTube broadcast from his hospital bed alongside his three sons, countering doctor recommendations to limit visitors. This prompted the Brazilian Supreme Court to declare that he was fit for legal summons. While he harbored hopes of contesting the presidential elections again in 2026, a current ban on his candidacy and potential 40-year imprisonment loom if he is found guilty of the coup charges.
