Brazil’s Bolsonaro is going to prison, but he might not stay long

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro leaves the hospital where he went to undergo a skin surgery procedure, authorized by Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, leaving the house arrest after being convicted by a Supreme Court majority of plotting a coup to remain in power after losing the 2022 election, in Brasilia, Brazil, September 14, 2025. REUTERS/Diego Herculano

On paper, former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has been sentenced to prison until the age of 97. However, legal experts say the ex-president is unlikely to spend more than a fraction of his 27-year sentence behind bars after the Brazilian Supreme Court found him guilty of plotting a coup to overturn the 2022 election he lost. This decision marks a significant moment in Brazilian politics, as Bolsonaro, known for his controversial statements and policies during his presidency, now faces the consequences of his actions. The Supreme Court’s ruling reflects a commitment to upholding democratic norms and the rule of law in the country. Despite the severity of the sentence, there are doubts regarding the actual time Bolsonaro will spend in prison, with experts highlighting legal avenues for potential early release or reduced terms. Supporters of the former president have expressed outrage over the verdict, while critics see it as a necessary step towards holding powerful figures accountable for their actions.

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