Court Imposes Ankle Tag and Curfew on Bolsonaro Amid Coup Charges

A court ruling has mandated that Jair Bolsonaro, the former president of Brazil, wear an ankle monitor and observe a nighttime curfew as he faces accusations of having attempted a coup against President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro, who served from 2019 until 2022, is under these restrictions due to concerns he might evade legal proceedings stemming from events following the 2022 elections. Despite denying any wrongdoing, the court's decision comes amidst heightened tensions both domestically and internationally, with the former president's allies seeking to exert pressure on Brazilian authorities.

The court's order reflects a significant escalation in the ongoing legal battles surrounding Bolsonaro, who remains under federal investigation for potential involvement in a coordinated effort to disrupt the democratic process after losing the election. Apart from the curfew and monitoring, the ruling prohibits him from communicating with certain individuals, including his son and foreign diplomats, effectively limiting his ability to rally support. Bolsonaro has reacted strongly, labeling the court’s actions as humiliating and unjust while expressing his commitment not to flee the country. This ruling adds to a backdrop of complex international relations, as tension builds further with U.S. President Donald Trump's threats regarding tariffs on Brazilian products linked to the Bolsonaro case.