On August 4, 2025, Brazil’s Supreme Court ordered that former President Jair Bolsonaro be placed under house arrest as he faces trial for allegedly leading a plot to overturn the results of the 2022 presidential election. Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who issued the ruling, cited Bolsonaro’s violation of court-imposed restrictions concerning his use of social media as grounds for the detention.
Bolsonaro had previously been ordered to wear an electronic ankle monitor and abide by curfews restricting his online activity, including refraining from posting content or interviews on social media. However, the court found that he circumvented these restrictions by sharing videos and recordings on his family members’ social media accounts, revealing his ankle monitor.
Under the house arrest order, Bolsonaro must remain confined to his residence and is prohibited from receiving visitors except for legal representatives and persons authorized by the court. Authorities were also instructed to confiscate Bolsonaro’s cell phone to prevent further unauthorized communications.
The former far-right leader, who lost to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in 2022, is accused of conspiring with associates in a criminal organization to subvert the democratic election outcome, including plans to threaten key government officials.
This decision marks a significant development in Brazil’s ongoing political and legal turmoil, amid contentious relations between Bolsonaro’s supporters and the current administration. The case has also sparked controversy internationally, with former US President Donald Trump criticizing the proceedings as a “witch hunt,” contributing to diplomatic tensions.
The house arrest represents the judiciary’s firm stance on ensuring compliance while maintaining Bolsonaro’s right to a fair trial.
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