Jair Bolsonaro Hospitalized with Pneumonia Whereas Serving Coup Attempt Sentence
RIO DE JANEIRO — Brazil’s former President Jair Bolsonaro is receiving treatment for pneumonia in an intensive care unit at a hospital in Brasília, hospital officials said Friday. The 70-year-ancient is currently serving a 27-year sentence for attempting a coup following his 2022 election defeat.
Serious Condition, Potential Complications
According to Dr. Brasil Caiado, one of Bolsonaro’s physicians, the former president’s condition is serious. “Pneumonia in patients over 70 is always serious due to the fact that it can progress to septicemia, since the bacteria can normally enter the bloodstream and cause an even more severe condition,” Caiado stated via the Associated Press.
Hospitalization and Initial Symptoms
Bolsonaro was admitted to the DF Star Hospital after exhibiting symptoms including high fever, low oxygen levels, sweating, and chills. Tests confirmed bronchopneumonia, likely caused by aspiration, the hospital said in a statement as reported by NBC News. His eldest son, Flávio Bolsonaro, announced on X (formerly Twitter) that his father had been transferred from prison to the hospital after waking up with chills and vomiting, requesting prayers for his father’s health according to the South China Morning Post.
Treatment and Recovery Timeline
The hospital stated that Bolsonaro is currently receiving IV antibiotics and non-invasive clinical support. Dr. Caiado indicated it is unlikely he will return to prison in the next few days due to the intravenous treatment requirements .
Coup Attempt Conviction and Political Context
Jair Bolsonaro was convicted last year by a panel of Supreme Court justices for attempting a coup after his defeat in the 2022 presidential election. The plot involved plans to overthrow Brazil’s democratic system, including alleged plans to kill President Lula, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, as well as instigate an insurrection .
Kidney Function Worsening
On Saturday, the hospital reported that Bolsonaro’s kidney function had worsened while he remained in intensive care with pneumonia, though his condition remained serious but stable as reported by ABC News.
Political Ramifications
Flávio Bolsonaro is expected to run for president this year, with recent polls showing him and President Lula da Silva in a close race . Former U.S. President Donald Trump previously imposed tariffs on Brazil citing the judicial proceedings against Bolsonaro, calling them a “witch hunt,” though many of those taxes have since been removed.