Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro (Liberal Party) said to federal police he kept a firearm at home because he lives with three women [1].
The statement comes as Bolsonaro faces ongoing legal scrutiny regarding his conduct and potential house arrest. The justification for possessing the weapon adds a personal layer to the legal proceedings involving the former leader.
During a deposition on June 23, 2024 [1], Bolsonaro addressed the presence of the weapon in his residence. He said he could not remain unarmed because he lives with three women [1, 2]. This explanation was provided during his testimony to the Federal Police in Brazil [2].
Bolsonaro said, "não podia ficar desarmado" [1], or that he could not remain unarmed. The former president's comments regarding the three women [1] in his home served as the primary reason for the weapon's presence.
Meanwhile, the legal status of the former president remains precarious. Minister Alexandre de Moraes is currently awaiting a manifestation from the Prosecutor General's Office (PGR) regarding Bolsonaro's potential house arrest [2]. The decision by the PGR will determine whether the former president remains under residential restrictions, or faces stricter detention measures.
The investigation into the firearm is part of a broader series of legal challenges facing the Liberal Party leader. These proceedings continue to examine the legality of his actions, and his compliance with judicial orders during and after his presidency.
“"não podia ficar desarmado"”
This testimony reflects the ongoing legal volatility surrounding Jair Bolsonaro as he navigates multiple investigations. The focus on firearm possession and the justification provided may be used by prosecutors to assess his compliance with law and order, while the pending decision from the PGR on house arrest indicates that his freedom of movement remains subject to judicial discretion.
