Authorities have been looking into a range of allegations against Bolsonaro, from claims that he conspired to incite an uprising to questions about whether he harassed a humpback whale while riding a jet-ski.
While the investigation into the whale incident was dropped, Bolsonaro has been ruled ineligible for several years by an electoral court. Numerous other investigations are still ongoing, with the possibility of criminal charges being brought at lower courts. The Supreme Court will have the final say on more than five investigations that could result in Bolsonaro facing jail time, house arrest, or being barred from political activities.
Bolsonaro has denied any wrongdoing in all cases, with his allies claiming political persecution while acknowledging the serious legal risks he faces.
Here’s a summary of the major threats against him and their current status:
Vaccination Fraud
Bolsonaro has been accused of directing an official to falsify a public health database to show that he and his daughter received the COVID-19 vaccine. The aim was allegedly to bypass entry requirements into the U.S., despite Bolsonaro publicly criticizing the vaccine and claiming he never took it.
STATUS: Brazil’s Supreme Court has forwarded the indictment to the prosecutor-general for consideration of pressing charges. It is reported that consultations with American authorities are being sought regarding the use of the forged document for entry into the U.S.
Saudi Jewels
The Federal Police are investigating whether Bolsonaro was involved in smuggling luxury jewelry from Saudi Arabia and Bahrain into Brazil and attempting to keep them for himself instead of incorporating them into the presidential collection.
STATUS: Bolsonaro has been indicted for money laundering and criminal association, as confirmed by sources familiar with the accusations.
Capital Uprising
Investigations are ongoing into Bolsonaro’s alleged role in a conspiracy to stay in office after losing the election, including inciting a riot that vandalized government buildings in Brasilia.
STATUS: Several of Bolsonaro’s supporters have already been convicted and imprisoned in connection with this case.
Electoral Misdeeds
Bolsonaro has been found guilty by Brazil’s highest electoral court of misusing government resources to promote his reelection bid and spread misinformation about the voting system.
STATUS: Bolsonaro’s appeal was denied, and he remains ineligible for office until 2030.
Pandemic Sabotage
Brazil’s Federal Police are investigating Bolsonaro for his actions during the COVID-19 pandemic, including spreading misinformation about masks and vaccines.
STATUS: The investigation is ongoing.
Fake News, Digital Militia
An investigation into a network spreading fake news and threats against Supreme Court justices has led to the imprisonment of lawmakers and raids on supporters of Bolsonaro.
STATUS: The investigations into the digital militia and fake news network are ongoing.
