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Sunday 22/02/2026

Brazil's Supreme Court Orders House Arrest for Jair Bolsonaro Amid Coup Allegations

Former Brazilian president under house arrest with ankle monitor
Sofia RomanoSofia Romano

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Brazil's Supreme Court has placed former President Jair Bolsonaro under house arrest for allegedly plotting a coup and violating a social media ban.
  • Justice Alexandre de Moraes cited Bolsonaro's use of allies' social media to incite attacks on the judiciary, leading to the arrest order.
  • The US condemned the court's decision, labeling it an overreach and promising accountability for those supporting sanctioned conduct.
  • Bolsonaro's legal team plans to appeal, denying any breach of court orders, while his son Flávio's actions were highlighted as evidence of violations.
  • The US has sanctioned Justice Moraes, accusing him of abusing human rights and using Brazil's institutions to silence opposition.

In a significant legal development, Brazil's Supreme Court has ordered the house arrest of former President Jair Bolsonaro, citing violations of a social media ban and allegations of plotting a coup. The ruling, issued by Justice Alexandre de Moraes, underscores the ongoing legal challenges facing the far-right leader, who has denied any wrongdoing.

Allegations and Legal Context

Bolsonaro's house arrest follows accusations that he used the social media accounts of allies to incite attacks on Brazil's judiciary and support foreign intervention. Justice Moraes, who has faced US sanctions over his role in the case, stated that Bolsonaro's actions breached preventative measures imposed last month, which included a ban on social media use and the requirement to wear an electronic ankle tag.

The court's decision has sparked international reactions, with the US State Department condemning the ruling. In a statement, the department criticized the restrictions on Bolsonaro, asserting that they hinder his ability to defend himself publicly. The US has pledged to hold accountable those aiding sanctioned conduct.

Political Reactions and Support

The ruling has also drawn attention to Bolsonaro's political alliances, particularly his relationship with former US President Donald Trump. Trump, who has previously voiced support for Bolsonaro, has criticized the trial as a "witch-hunt" and imposed tariffs on Brazilian goods, citing the legal proceedings as justification.

Pro-Bolsonaro rallies were held across Brazil, with supporters gathering in cities like Rio de Janeiro. During one such rally, Bolsonaro's son, Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, facilitated a phone call between his father and the crowd, an act cited by Justice Moraes as evidence of the former president's disregard for court orders.

Legal and Political Implications

Bolsonaro's legal team has announced plans to appeal the house arrest order, maintaining that the former president has not violated any court-imposed restrictions. The legal battle is set to continue, with Bolsonaro's supporters and critics closely watching the developments.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The house arrest of Jair Bolsonaro marks a pivotal moment in Brazil's political landscape, with potential implications for both domestic and international relations. If the appeal is unsuccessful, Bolsonaro's political influence could be further diminished, impacting his ability to mobilize support. The US condemnation of the court's decision may strain diplomatic ties, particularly if further sanctions are considered. As the legal proceedings unfold, the case will likely serve as a litmus test for Brazil's judiciary and its handling of high-profile political figures.