The Brazilian Supreme Court has authorized former President Jair Bolsonaro to temporarily leave prison to undergo a hernia surgery later this week. Justice Alexandre de Moraes approved the request, allowing Bolsonaro, who is serving a 27-year prison sentence for his involvement in a coup plot, to receive medical treatment under strict supervision.

Bolsonaro to Undergo Hernia Surgery

Bolsonaro’s legal team requested that he be transferred to Hospital DF Star in Brasilia for a series of medical tests on Wednesday, followed by surgery on Thursday. Doctors confirmed that a hernia is causing him significant pain on both sides of his groin.

This will mark Bolsonaro’s first departure from federal custody since he began serving his sentence in late November 2025. The court emphasized that federal police are to continue 24-hour monitoring during his hospital stay to ensure security and compliance.

Bolsonaro’s Health History

The former far-right leader has a history of medical procedures dating back to 2018, when he was stabbed during a campaign rally. Since then, Bolsonaro has been hospitalized multiple times. His health has remained a topic of public interest, particularly given the stresses associated with incarceration and ongoing political controversies.

Impact on Brazilian Politics

Bolsonaro’s imprisonment has sparked speculation about the future leadership of Brazil’s right-wing political movement. Many observers expect his eldest son, Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, to take a more prominent role ahead of the 2026 presidential election.

Flavio Bolsonaro acknowledged the situation on social media, explaining that his father had to prioritize health over a planned interview with the news outlet Metropoles. “He is about to be hospitalised for surgery,” Flavio said. “Some days he wakes up feeling well, other days worse. Today may have been a day when he woke up feeling more unwell.”

Previous Requests for House Arrest Denied

Prior to this development, Bolsonaro had requested to serve his sentence under house arrest, citing health concerns. Justice Moraes denied the request, affirming that Bolsonaro would remain in the federal police headquarters in Brasilia. There, he is allowed to meet with doctors and legal representatives but has no contact with other prisoners.

Conclusion

The Brazilian Supreme Court’s approval of Bolsonaro’s temporary release underscores the delicate balance between medical rights and the rule of law in high-profile political cases. While his surgery is a personal health matter, it also carries implications for Brazil’s political landscape, particularly as the country prepares for the 2026 elections.