Judicial Approval for Surgery, House Arrest Denied
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has been granted temporary permission to leave the Federal Police Superintendency in Brasília to undergo a hernia operation. The decision, issued on Friday, December 19, 2025, by Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, follows a medical recommendation for the procedure. However, Justice Moraes explicitly denied Bolsonaro's request for 'humanitarian house arrest' for his recovery period.
The ruling stipulates that while the surgery is necessary, Bolsonaro must return to the federal police facility after the procedure and immediate recovery. Justice Moraes justified the denial of house arrest by citing Bolsonaro's 'history of non-compliance and a high flight risk.' This includes a reported attempt to tamper with his electronic ankle monitor by soldering the device to facilitate its removal. The judge also noted the logistical proximity of Bolsonaro's current detention site to the private hospital, DF Star hospital, where he receives emergency medical care, minimizing concerns about emergency transport.
Medical Necessity and Legal Context
The medical board of the Federal Police recommended the surgery for a bilateral inguinal hernia, advising that it be performed 'as soon as possible' to prevent complications, despite classifying it as an elective rather than an emergency procedure. The condition has reportedly been resistant to treatment and has been disrupting Bolsonaro's sleep and eating patterns. Bolsonaro's defense lawyers are now tasked with selecting a date for the operation and submitting the schedule for approval.
This health development occurs while Bolsonaro is serving a 27-year and three-month prison sentence. He was convicted in September 2025 for plotting a coup after his defeat in the 2022 presidential election and was arrested in November 2025. Bolsonaro has a documented history of health issues, including multiple surgeries stemming from a stabbing attack during his 2018 presidential campaign. He has undergone seven previous operations and also suffers from recurrent hiccups attributed to a phrenic nerve issue and insomnia.
Broader Political Landscape
The decision comes amidst a broader political climate in Brazil, where President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has publicly vowed to veto any congressional bill that seeks to reduce sentences for individuals convicted of coup-related offenses, which could potentially affect Bolsonaro. The temporary release for medical treatment, while denying a more lenient form of custody, underscores the judiciary's approach to balancing humanitarian concerns with the enforcement of legal sentences and security protocols.
4 Comments
Loubianka
Denying house arrest for surgery recovery is inhumane and utterly cruel.
Noir Black
It's good that he's getting the surgery, as everyone deserves medical treatment, but denying house arrest seems harsh for recovery. However, the judge probably has strong reasons, considering his history of non-compliance.
Eugene Alta
Rule of law prevails. Humanitarian concerns don't negate security protocols for a convicted felon.
Michelangelo
His health history speaks for itself; he needs proper care, not this kind of punishment.