Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil’s controversial former president, was hospitalised on Friday after experiencing severe abdominal pain while on a regional political tour. The 70-year-old was stabilised and remains under observation at a hospital in Natal, the capital of Rio Grande do Norte state. According to his medical team, Bolsonaro is recovering well, with no signs of fever or the need for immediate surgery.
Recurring Health Issues Since 2018 Stabbing
The incident is the latest in a string of health complications for the far-right leader, who was stabbed in the stomach during a 2018 campaign rally. Since then, he has undergone several operations and hospital stays related to abdominal discomfort and internal issues.
Bolsonaro was attending a political event in the northeastern state of Rio Grande do Norte when he began suffering what party officials described as “unbearable abdominal pain.” The former president was initially taken to a regional hospital before being airlifted to a more advanced medical facility in the state capital.
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“Thank God, my condition is stable and I am recovering, without fever. The clinical progress is good,” Bolsonaro posted on social media platform X, alongside a photo showing him in a hospital bed giving a thumbs-up. The image also showed a nasal tube and monitoring electrodes on his chest.
Doctors Monitoring Condition, No Surgery Planned Yet
Luiz Roberto Fonseca, medical director at the Rio Grande hospital, confirmed that Bolsonaro would be spending the night under observation. Surgeon Helio Barreto provided further reassurances, saying, “For the moment, no surgery is planned,” and noted the patient was experiencing “improvement” and “decreased pain.”
Television footage showed the former president walking—albeit in visible discomfort—to the helicopter that transported him to Natal.
Political Tour Disrupted
Bolsonaro had planned to launch a political tour in Rio Grande do Norte on Friday aimed at reviving support and preparing for a possible presidential run in 2026. Despite being legally barred from holding public office until 2030 following a 2023 conviction for abuse of power, Bolsonaro has remained a vocal figure on Brazil’s political stage, frequently appearing at rallies and party events.
His supporters are hopeful the ban will be overturned, allowing him to challenge current President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in a future election. However, those ambitions were further clouded last month when the Brazilian Supreme Court ordered Bolsonaro to stand trial on charges of plotting a coup against Lula.
Facing Trial, Facing History
If convicted of orchestrating a coup attempt, Bolsonaro could face more than 40 years in prison and permanent political banishment. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in plans to overturn the 2022 election results, which saw him narrowly defeated by Lula.
Often referred to as the “Trump of the Tropics,” Bolsonaro has built a political brand that mirrors his American counterpart. Like Donald Trump, he has denied election results, cast doubt on voting systems, and been the target of numerous investigations.
The Supreme Court’s decision to pursue a criminal case against him is seen as a turning point in Brazil’s post-election reckoning. Bolsonaro’s legal team has denied the charges and insists the former president’s actions were within his constitutional rights.
Political Legacy and Popularity at Stake
Bolsonaro’s presidency from 2019 to 2022 was marked by polarising rhetoric, environmental controversies, and criticism of his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, he maintains a loyal base, particularly among conservative and religious voters.
Senator Rogerio Marinho, a key ally, confirmed Bolsonaro’s stabilisation in the hospital and noted the overwhelming support the former president continues to receive. “The people still love him. He represents a vision of Brazil that millions believe in,” Marinho stated.
Despite medical setbacks and mounting legal issues, Bolsonaro remains intent on shaping Brazil’s political future. Observers say his latest hospitalisation might slow his momentum but is unlikely to deter his core supporters.
Outlook Unclear as Legal and Health Battles Continue
As of Friday evening, Bolsonaro remained in stable condition, according to doctors. His future—both politically and medically—remains uncertain. Analysts point out that while his health issues are serious, his legal challenges could prove more decisive in determining whether he will have a role in Brazil’s 2026 election.
For now, Bolsonaro’s team has suspended further tour stops, with aides suggesting he will remain hospitalised at least through the weekend. The political world in Brazil watches closely, as the former president’s every move continues to shape the country’s contentious political landscape.
