Brazilian Judge Imposes House Arrest on Ex-President Jair Bolsonaro

In a move that has intensified the legal battle against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, a Brazilian judge has ordered him to be placed under house arrest for violating a court-imposed social media ban. The decision comes as part of his ongoing trial for allegedly plotting a coup following his defeat in the 2022 presidential election by current President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Bolsonaro, a staunch ally of former U.S. President Donald Trump, is facing charges that he conspired to subvert the democratic process after losing the election. Last month, the Supreme Court mandated that he wear an ankle bracelet and refrain from using social media, a restriction meant to prevent him from inciting unrest through online activity. However, Bolsonaro's allies and family members have repeatedly violated these orders by sharing his speeches and hosting public events.

On Sunday, supporters of Bolsonaro broadcast a live call between the former president and his son during a rally in Rio de Janeiro, one of several such demonstrations held nationwide. In response, Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes expressed frustration, stating that the judiciary would not tolerate such defiance. He ordered Bolsonaro to be placed under house arrest at his residence in Brasília, with restrictions on visitors and the use of mobile phones.

The ruling is likely to provoke backlash from Trump, who has already imposed significant tariffs on Brazilian goods and sanctioned Moraes for his handling of the case. Trump's actions have been welcomed by Bolsonaro's conservative base, with some demonstrators at the rallies waving American flags and displaying signs that read 'Thank you Trump.'

Bolsonaro, who is currently under house arrest, faces a potential prison sentence if found guilty in the upcoming trial. Justice Moraes, a prominent figure in the fight against disinformation and far-right influence, has become a target of hostility from both Brazilian and American right-wing groups. His recent actions have highlighted the growing tensions between the judiciary and political figures on the far right.

As the trial approaches its conclusion, the legal and political ramifications of Bolsonaro's case continue to unfold, with far-reaching implications for Brazil's democracy and international relations.