Brasilia hospital officials confirmed Bolsonaro’s condition Friday, with cardiologist Brasil Caiado noting the seriousness of pneumonia in patients over 70 due to the risk of septicemia. The former president had been transferred from prison after experiencing high fever, low oxygen, sweating, and chills, according to the hospital’s statement. Exams identified bronchopneumonia, likely caused by aspiration, and he is receiving intravenous antibiotics and non-invasive clinical support in the ICU.
Bolsonaro’s son Flávio announced the hospitalization on X, requesting prayers and stating his father was being moved to the hospital. Flávio Bolsonaro, currently a senator, has declared his candidacy for the presidency this year, with recent polls indicating a near tie with incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
The ex-president’s health problems are not new; he has been hospitalized multiple times since surviving a stabbing during the 2018 campaign. His current imprisonment stems from a September conviction for attempting to overthrow Brazil’s democratic system after his 2022 election defeat. The plot included plans to kill Lula, Vice President Geraldo Alckwin, and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, as well as to incite an insurrection in early 2023.
Bolsonaro’s legal team and family members have repeatedly sought house arrest, alleging mistreatment and inadequate medical care. The Supreme Court has consistently denied these requests. On Friday, another son, Carlos Bolsonaro, posted on X accusing the “system” of trying to kill his father.
The case has drawn international attention, notably from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who imposed tariffs on Brazil citing the “witch hunt” prosecution of his ally. While many of those tariffs have since been lifted, the episode underscores Bolsonaro’s continued support among some foreign political figures.
Medical experts emphasize that aspiration pneumonia, the likely cause in Bolsonaro’s case, can be particularly severe in older patients. Dr. Caiado indicated Bolsonaro would likely remain hospitalized for several days due to the need for intravenous treatment, making a return to prison unlikely in the short term.
The convergence of a high-profile health crisis, ongoing legal battles, and a contentious political environment places Brazil’s institutions under renewed scrutiny as the country navigates the aftermath of Bolsonaro’s presidency and the upcoming election season.