Bolsonaro and the Hernias: Health Under STF Tutelage

The Authorized Exam

On Sunday, December 14, doctors recommended that former president Jair Bolsonaro undergo surgery after a portable ultrasound revealed two inguinal hernias. The procedure took place at the Federal Police headquarters in Brasília, where Bolsonaro has been detained since November 22. In addition, the exam only happened because Justice Alexandre de Moraes of the STF authorized it, claiming that the medical reports presented by the defense were outdated.

Judicial Control Over Health

This episode clearly exposes the level of control Moraes exercises over Bolsonaro’s life. It is not enough for him to decide on imprisonment; now even medical exams depend on judicial authorization. The defense requested the evaluation to update the clinical picture and support decisions about possible surgical interventions. However, instead of trusting the medical team, Moraes imposed his approval as a filter for the former president’s health. Therefore, medicine became subordinated to judicial power.

The Institutional Absurdity

It is unacceptable for a Supreme Court justice to act as an intermediary between doctors and patient. Medicine is an autonomous science, based on diagnoses and clinical protocols. Thus, by requiring authorization for a simple ultrasound, Moraes turned a basic right into a political act. Moreover, this posture reinforces criticism that the Brazilian Judiciary exceeds its functions and invades areas beyond its competence. Consequently, public trust in judicial impartiality deteriorates.

The Broader Context

This case adds to other recent episodes. There was the cassation of Carla Zambelli against the Chamber’s decision. In addition, there was the blocking of broad amnesty and the shielding against impeachment requests. In all these cases, the pattern remains the same: monocratic decisions that concentrate power and reduce the autonomy of other institutions. On the other hand, Congress remains passive, allowing the STF to advance further.

Critical Conclusion

The ultrasound that revealed Bolsonaro’s hernias should have been only a medical act. Nevertheless, it became another example of the hypertrophy of the STF. When even clinical exams depend on a justice’s authorization, it is clear that Brazilian democracy is ill. Furthermore, Congress continues to remain passive, while Moraes expands his reach into every field, including medicine. Therefore, the result is a country where even health has become a tool of power.

CTA: Want to understand how judicial decisions that exceed their functions affect basic rights such as health? Explore other articles by Pedro Freitas and keep your critical eye on the STF.

Source:

• Report on Jair Bolsonaro’s medical exam – Brazilian press