Brazilian conservative leader Jair Bolsonaro defies the odds again, walking out of hospital after a grueling 12-hour surgery that doctors called his most difficult procedure since the 2018 assassination attempt that nearly claimed his life.
Key Takeaways
- Former Brazilian President Bolsonaro was discharged after a complex abdominal surgery and 17 days in intensive care stemming from complications of a 2018 assassination attempt
- Despite medical advice to rest, Bolsonaro plans to attend a rally supporting amnesty for his supporters who were involved in protests on January 8, 2023
- Bolsonaro faces possible prosecution by Brazil’s leftist-controlled Supreme Court over alleged involvement in what they claim was a “coup plot”
- Though barred from running in the next election, Bolsonaro remains politically active and influential in Brazilian conservative politics
Medical Recovery Against All Odds
Jair Bolsonaro, the 70-year-old conservative former president of Brazil, has been discharged from DF Star Hospital in Brasilia following his seventh abdominal surgery since a near-fatal stabbing during a 2018 campaign rally. The procedure, lasting 12 hours and described by medical professionals as his most complex operation to date, addressed intestinal obstructions and required reconstruction of part of his abdominal wall. Bolsonaro spent 17 days in intensive care, undergoing physical therapy and receiving nutrition through feeding tubes before transitioning to oral intake.
Bolsonaro’s medical team expressed surprise at his remarkable recovery, though they continue to monitor him for potential complications. Dr. Leandro Echenique, one of Bolsonaro’s physicians, stated: “He is in very good health.” The doctors reported his recovery is progressing well, with stable blood pressure and no fever or pain. Upon leaving the hospital under his own power, Bolsonaro greeted supporters who had gathered outside waving Brazilian flags, demonstrating his continuing popular support despite ongoing legal challenges.
Political Defiance Despite Physical Limitations
Despite his doctors’ recommendations against political activities, Bolsonaro has already announced plans to attend a rally in Brasilia. This gathering is specifically organized to support amnesty for his supporters who were involved in the January 8, 2023, protests at government buildings. His lead surgeon, Dr. Claudio Birolini, directly advised against attendance, saying: “We have advised against it.” This tension between medical advice and political commitment underscores Bolsonaro’s determination to remain engaged in Brazilian politics despite physical limitations.
“Thank you, my God, for this miracle,” said Jair Bolsonaro, expressing gratitude for his recovery.
Prior to his hospitalization, Bolsonaro had been planning a political tour across northeastern Brazil to promote his party’s agenda ahead of upcoming elections. Though he remains prohibited from running for office himself, his influence within conservative Brazilian politics remains substantial. Taking to social media upon his release, Bolsonaro declared himself “Back home, renewed,” signaling to supporters his intention to continue his political activities despite health challenges.
Legal Challenges Amid Recovery
Bolsonaro’s medical struggles come at a time when he faces mounting legal pressure from Brazil’s left-wing government. The Supreme Court has announced its intention to prosecute him for an alleged role in what they characterize as a “coup plot” to prevent current president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s inauguration. This investigation represents yet another attempt by Brazil’s leftist establishment to neutralize Bolsonaro’s continuing influence over Brazilian politics and his popular support among conservatives.
“This cap goes to our President,” said Ronaldo de Barretos, one of the many supporters who gathered outside the hospital to show solidarity with Bolsonaro.
The combination of physical recovery and legal challenges presents a formidable obstacle for Bolsonaro. However, his supporters remain steadfast, viewing the legal proceedings as politically motivated persecution rather than legitimate law enforcement. The case against Bolsonaro centers on protests following the controversial 2022 election, which many conservatives continue to question. Despite these challenges, Bolsonaro’s determination to attend a rally supporting amnesty for January 8th protestors demonstrates his unwavering commitment to his political principles even while recovering from major surgery.
