Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has been discharged from a Brasília hospital after a two-week stay for pneumonia and bronchopneumonia, beginning a 90-day period of house arrest as part of his 27-year sentence for attempted coup d’état. The Supreme Court’s decision, citing ongoing health concerns, imposes strict conditions on his detention at home, including electronic monitoring and restrictions on social media and visitation. Bolsonaro’s legal and political situation remains fluid, with the court set to revisit the terms of his confinement within three months.Toronto Star+2
Bolsonaro, aged 71, was hospitalized on March 13, 2026, suffering from pneumonia and bronchopneumonia, and spent time in intensive care. After two weeks of treatment, he was deemed stable enough for discharge on March 27. His medical team and family had urged authorities to consider his deteriorating health, warning that continued incarceration could pose significant risks. The Supreme Court’s humanitarian decision reflects the seriousness of his condition and the need for ongoing medical oversight during his house arrest.La Presse+2
The house arrest order, issued by a Supreme Court judge, mandates electronic monitoring, bans on social media activity, and strict visitation limits. Bolsonaro will serve his sentence in an upscale gated community near Brasília’s Botanical Garden. The ruling is provisional, with a formal review scheduled within 90 days to assess his health and determine whether house arrest should continue. Additional judicial proceedings related to the coup attempt charges are ongoing, and Bolsonaro remains under close legal scrutiny.Toronto Star+2
Bolsonaro’s transfer to home detention has reignited debate in Brazil over the balance between humanitarian considerations and accountability for high-profile political figures. Supporters argue the move is justified given his health, while critics warn it could set a precedent for leniency. The Supreme Court’s handling of the case, amid broader political and judicial turmoil, is being closely watched both domestically and internationally as Brazil grapples with the fallout from the coup attempt and ongoing corruption scandals.The Independent+2