Court Imposes Ankle Monitor and Curfew on Jair Bolsonaro Amid Coup Trial

The Brazilian court's recent ruling requires ex-President Jair Bolsonaro to wear an ankle tag and adhere to a nighttime curfew as he stands trial for allegedly orchestrating a coup against current President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Having been in office from 2019 until 2022, Bolsonaro has denied all wrongdoing concerning the charges brought against him following the contested 2022 election. His legal team has expressed shock at the court's orders, while Bolsonaro claims he has never considered fleeing the country.

A police raid at his residence preceded the court's decision, which comes amid accusations that Bolsonaro, potentially coordinating with his son, was attempting to incite international sanctions against Brazilian officials. Furthermore, the former president has faced broader scrutiny following his administration's post-election controversies, particularly the storming of government buildings by his supporters shortly after Lula's inauguration. Should he be found guilty, Bolsonaro may face a lengthy prison sentence.

Judge Alexandre de Moraes voiced concerns over Bolsonaro's behavior, stating that it constituted a threat to national justice and requiring constant surveillance. This development has sparked international discussions, particularly following U.S. President Donald Trump's warnings about potential tariffs on Brazilian goods in response to Bolsonaro's legal troubles, to which Lula responded affirmatively, asserting Brazil's sovereignty. As Bolsonaro navigates the charges, he continues to vehemently assert his innocence and decry what he describes as politically motivated persecution.