Ex-Brazil leader Bolsonaro receives intensive care as Pneumonia sparks health concerns

Jair Bolsonaro , Brazil’s former president and a dominant figure in the country’s right-wing politics, has been admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of DF Star Hospital with severe pneumonia , hospital authorities confirmed on Friday.

The 70-year-old leader, currently serving a prison sentence, was transferred to the hospital after experiencing high fever, chills, vomiting, sweating and low oxygen levels . Medical examinations diagnosed bronchopneumonia , likely caused by inhalation of stomach contents into the lungs. Doctors said he is receiving intravenous antibiotics along with non-invasive respiratory support .

According to cardiologist Brasil Caiado , pneumonia in elderly patients can be particularly dangerous due to the risk of septicemia , a life-threatening bloodstream infection. He indicated that Bolsonaro is unlikely to return to prison soon because treatment requires continuous hospital care.

Bolsonaro’s eldest son, Flávio Bolsonaro , appealed for prayers, while another son, Carlos Bolsonaro , alleged mistreatment by authorities claims rejected by the judiciary. The family has repeatedly sought permission for him to serve his sentence under house arrest on medical grounds .

Bolsonaro is serving a 27-year prison term following his conviction for attempting to overturn Brazil’s democratic system after his 2022 election defeat to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva . Prosecutors said the plot involved plans targeting Lula, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin , and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes . He has denied all charges.

A former army captain, Bolsonaro served as Brazil’s president from 2019 to 2022 after decades as a federal lawmaker. Known for his nationalist and conservative agenda , he built a strong support base through tough positions on crime, economic liberalisation and criticism of left-wing politics. His presidency was marked by controversies over environmental policies, COVID-19 management, and clashes with democratic institutions . Bolsonaro has faced recurring health problems since surviving a 2018 campaign stabbing and has been hospitalized multiple times in recent years. His latest medical emergency comes amid continued political polarisation in Brazil and ongoing legal battles surrounding his conviction.