Former Brazilian President Jair Bolusonaro returned to Brazil on Thursday for the first time since his defeat in the last presidential election, despite dozens of cases and investigations awaiting him, the latest of which is his supposed role in acts of sabotage that affected centers of sovereignty in the capital.
The right-wing former president is subject to prosecution, potentially being declared ineligible to run for office or even imprisoned, and complicates the political situation for Brazilian President Lula da Silva.
Former President Bolusonaro (2019-2022) arrived at Brasilia International Airport on a commercial flight from Orlando, Florida. About 200 supporters attended carrying Brazilian flags amid a heavy police presence.
Bolsonaro left Brazil on Dec. 30 even before his term ended and boycotted Lula's inauguration on Jan. <>.
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Resumption of political action
Bolsonaro, 68, announced last week his intention to return, saying: "I will resume my normal life, I will work for the Liberal Party, I will visit all parts of Brazil and I will participate in political life."
In anticipation of clashes with his supporters after his return, the military police in Brasilia prepared to block access to the Three Authorities Square in the heart of the capital as well as at the airport.
Bolsonaro is the subject of five investigations before the Supreme Court in cases that could lead to prison sentences, the latest of which concerns his role in the January 8 riots against positions of power in Brasilia that were vandalized by thousands of his supporters.
The other four cases relate to alleged misdemeanors that occurred during his tenure, such as misinformation about the electronic voting system or the fight against the coronavirus. He is also being prosecuted for at least 16 investigations before the Supreme Electoral Tribunal.
He could be judged ineligible to participate in an eight-year election, which could prevent him from running in the 2026 presidential election.