Moraes Asserts that Democracy is Ready to Punish Ridiculous Organizations
The Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes has stated that the nation’s democracy is now equipped to hold “ridiculous organizations” accountable for attempting a coup. His assertion came during the decision for the preventive arrest of former President Jair Bolsonaro.
Moraes on Democracy’s Maturity Against Criminal Organizations
Justice Moraes emphasized that Brazilian democracy has reached a level of maturity that enables it to respond effectively to illegal initiatives. He remarked, “Brazilian democracy has matured enough to dismiss and hold accountable ridiculous illegal initiatives defending criminal organizations responsible for coup attempts in Brazil.”
Preventive Arrest of Jair Bolsonaro
Bolsonaro was arrested on Saturday, October 22, following a request from the Federal Police (PF). The police cited a concrete risk of escape and threats to public order as reasons for the arrest.
- Date of Arrest: October 22
- Reason for Arrest: Risk of escape and threat to public order
- Current Status: Preventive custody
In his decision, Moraes highlighted the alleged involvement of Bolsonaro’s sons in the criminal organization. He specifically noted the actions of:
- Eduardo Bolsonaro (Federal Deputy – PL-SP): Accused of plotting treason against the country while abandoning his parliamentary duties.
- Flávio Bolsonaro (Senator – PL-RJ): Accused of undermining the judiciary and attempting to incite social chaos in Brazil.
Legal Proceedings and Implications
The Public Prosecutor’s Office (PGR) endorsed the preventive arrest, citing the urgency and seriousness of the new evidence presented. The PGR stated, “Given the urgency and gravity of the new facts, the Public Prosecutor’s Office does not oppose the measures indicated by the police authority.”
Bolsonaro had been under house arrest since August 4 before the preventive custody order was issued by Moraes. This current arrest is a precautionary measure, separate from a 27-year prison sentence he faces for his role in the coup attempt.
A custody hearing for Bolsonaro is scheduled for Sunday, October 23, at noon. The confirmation of his arrest will be reviewed by the plenary of the First Section in an extraordinary session on Monday, October 24.
