🔗 Share this article

A state court has ordered that the ex-leader compensate with R$1 million (approximately £138,000) in moral reparations for remarks considered offensive during his period in office.

Fresh Ruling Follows Previous Sentence

The latest decision arrives just a week after he was given a prison term of 27 years and three months in incarceration for orchestrating an unsuccessful power grab intending to nullify the results of the presidential race.

Details of the Racist Comments

In a 2021 encounter in front of the government residence, Bolsonaro allegedly referred to the textured curls of a African-descendant follower as a “nest for pests.”

Furthermore, he remarked that the man might have parasites, asking, “What do you breed in that mop of hair?”

Legal Defenses and Ruling

The defendant’s lawyers argued that the comments were without malice to insult, noting that the supporter personally stated he was unbothered.

But, the court determined that the comments amounted to “humorous bigotry” and were not simple humor or protected speech.

“Discriminatory language masked by playful jokes, linking Black power hair to vermin linked to uncleanliness, violates the integrity of African-Brazilians and perpetuates the negative stereotype,” wrote the presiding judge.

Background of the Lawsuit

The lawsuit was brought by public prosecutors and the defender’s ministry, pointing to several distinct incidents made by the defendant during livestreams in during his term.

Although a lower court had dismissed the case, the review panel collectively convicted the defendant, though they assigned a reduced penalty than the initial request.

In addition to Bolsonaro, the Brazilian government was additionally directed to pay R$1 million. Both can still appeal the decision.

Current Status of the Defendant

At present, the ex-president remains under detention at residence at his mansion in Brasília, barred from using online platforms.

Bolsonaro has not commented on the discrimination case.

Soon after the verdict, he was taken to a medical facility due to a acute episode of involuntary spasms, nausea, and drop in BP, stated by his children on a post.

This was subsequent to a prior hospital visit for the treatment of growths.

Political Responses

One of the family’s sons, a public figure, reposted information of the ruling with the phrase: “Democracy prevails!”

His relatives assert that the legal actions against him are targeted harassment.

attempted overthrow proceedings, his defense team can still file a last challenge before a ruling is made on the location he will carry out his sentence.