Brazil Supreme Court majority rejects Bolsonaro release petition

The First Chamber of the Brazilian Supreme Federal Court (STF) has formed a majority to reject a habeas corpus petition seeking the release of former President Jair Bolsonaro. The petition was filed by a third party, Claudio Leme Cavalheiro, without the knowledge or authorization of Bolsonaro or his legal defense team.

Justice Cármen Lúcia, the rapporteur for the case, voted against the request and was joined by Justice Cristiano Zanin. Justice Alexandre de Moraes declared himself recused from the proceedings as he is the authority being questioned in the criminal execution process. The final vote from Justice Flávio Dino is still pending.

Justice Cármen Lúcia noted that while any individual may technically file a habeas corpus, a third party cannot substitute for established legal counsel or interfere with a defendant's chosen defense strategy. Bolsonaro is currently serving a sentence of 27 years and three months related to a conviction involving an attempted coup d'état.