The transfer from intensive care to a semi-intensive care unit signals an improvement in Bolsonaro’s condition, according to his wife’s statement. The hospital DF Star reported on Sunday that his kidney function had improved, though he remained in intensive care at that time due to pneumonia. The facility did not immediately comment on his transfer to the less-critical unit.
Bolsonaro has been hospitalized multiple times since suffering a stabbing during a 2018 campaign event. His current health crisis has drawn attention from allies and opponents alike, coming as he serves a lengthy prison sentence.
The former president was moved from a local federal police headquarters to a larger cell in January following requests from his family and supporters. His legal team and political allies have repeatedly petitioned Brazil’s Supreme Court to allow him to serve his sentence under house arrest.
His son, Sen. Flávio Bolsonaro, is widely expected to launch a presidential bid later this year, setting up a potential rematch with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The elder Bolsonaro’s legal battles and health issues have become central themes in the upcoming election.
Bolsonaro has been convicted on multiple charges, including leading an armed criminal organization and attempting to violently abolish Brazil’s democratic rule of law. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that the cases against him are politically motivated.