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Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro has been admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of the DF Star Hospital in Brasilia following a deterioration in his health condition. According to a statement released by his medical team on Thursday, Bolsonaro is undergoing further examinations after showing signs of "clinical deterioration" related to complications from previous surgeries.
This latest hospitalization is tied to ongoing intestinal issues that have plagued Bolsonaro since he survived a stabbing attack in 2018 during his presidential campaign. That incident required the placement of a colostomy bag, which was later removed in a 2019 procedure. Since then, Bolsonaro has experienced repeated gastrointestinal complications, including an intestinal blockage in 2022 and hospitalization in the United States in 2023 due to abdominal discomfort.
His most recent hospitalization occurred after he reported experiencing severe abdominal pain while attending an event in northeastern Brazil. At the time, he was participating in public engagements ahead of an impending court trial. In March, Brazil's Supreme Court ruled that Bolsonaro should stand trial for his alleged involvement in a plot to overturn the outcome of the 2022 presidential election, which he lost to current President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro has consistently denied any wrongdoing in the matter.
Despite his medical situation, Bolsonaro remains publicly optimistic. On Tuesday, he posted a photograph of himself from his hospital bed, giving a thumbs-up and expressing gratitude for the support he has received, stating that he continues "with faith, determination, and much gratitude."
His medical team has indicated that he will continue motor physiotherapy and preventive measures for venous thrombosis. While his condition is being closely monitored, no specific timeline has been given for his discharge or recovery.
This development comes at a time of heightened political scrutiny for the former president, as legal proceedings are set to unfold in the coming months. As Bolsonaro faces both legal and health challenges, the nation and his supporters are watching closely to see what impact these events may have on his political future.
