Brazil's Supreme Court tightens restrictions on Bolsonaro's house arrest

Brazil's Supreme Court has maintained former President Jair Bolsonaro's house arrest but significantly tightened the restrictions on his movements and communications. The decision, made by Justice Alexandre de Moraes, addresses Bolsonaro's alleged violation of court orders.

Bolsonaro, who is serving a 27-year and three-month sentence for attempting a coup, will be unable to receive social visitors for 30 days. This ban also extends to political and electoral visits until the conclusion of the upcoming October elections. Exceptions are made only for medical, physiotherapy, and legal consultations.

The stricter measures were imposed after Bolsonaro penned a letter expressing support for his son, Senator Flávio Bolsonaro's, presidential candidacy. This letter was subsequently published on social media, which the court deemed a violation of previous orders prohibiting external communication and interference.

Justice de Moraes accepted the Attorney General's Office's recommendation that while the letter did not warrant revoking Bolsonaro's house arrest, it did necessitate enhanced restrictions. The judge noted that the publication of the letter, facilitated by Flávio Bolsonaro, contravened the court's ban on the former president communicating, directly or indirectly, through third parties.

Additionally, the ruling prohibits the dissemination of any political or electoral manifestos drafted by Bolsonaro through third parties or any media channel. This reinforces the suspension of his political rights following his conviction for coup-related offenses. The court also upheld a previous 90-day ban on Flávio Bolsonaro visiting his father, imposed for his role in publishing the letter.