Brazil Judge Puts Ex-President Bolsonaro Under House Arrest

 A Brazilian federal judge on August 4, 2025, ordered former President Jair Bolsonaro to remain under house arrest for 90 days, pending an investigation into his alleged role in a 2023 coup attempt following his election loss. 

Judge Alexandre de Moraes of the Supreme Federal Court issued the ruling, citing evidence of Bolsonaro’s meetings with military officials to contest the results, supported by seized documents and testimony from 15 witnesses. The 70-year-old, who left office in December 2022, must surrender his passport and avoid contact with co-accused.

Bolsonaro’s supporters, including his Liberal Party, denounced the decision as political persecution, noting his 49% vote share in 2022, while prosecutors argue it prevents interference in ongoing probes. 

The move escalates tensions, with 30% of Brazilians favoring his return, per recent polls. The narrative of legal accountability is significant, reflecting Brazil’s struggle to uphold democratic norms, though its outcome may hinge on judicial impartiality amid polarized public opinion