Background and Relevance of Jair Bolsonaro
Jair Bolsonaro served as the President of Brazil from 2019 to 2023. A controversial figure, Bolsonaro is known for his far-right ideologies and polarizing policies. His presidency was marked by significant social, economic, and environmental changes in Brazil. Following his term, Bolsonaro remains a prominent figure in the country’s political landscape.
Allegations of Illegal Spying
The Federal Police of Brazil has accused former President Jair Bolsonaro and his son, Carlos, of participating in an illegal spying plot targeting political adversaries during their tenure (2019-2023) through the Brazilian Intelligence Agency (Abin).
“Abin Paralella” and “Gabinete do Odio”
According to the investigation, the mastermind behind this “Abin paralella” was then-director of the agency, current congressman Alexandre Ramagem. Carlos Bolsonaro allegedly managed the “gabinete do odio,” a group that targeted political rivals and even judicial bodies like the Tribunal Superior Electoral (TSE), all with the approval of then-President Bolsonaro, who stood to benefit from these actions.
Additional Accusations and Implicated Individuals
More than thirty individuals have been accused, including the current head of Abin, Luiz Fernando Correa, for obstruction of justice, as reported by G1.
Illegal Surveillance
During those years, the agency functioned as a parallel structure used for illegal surveillance of computers and phones belonging to politicians, including former presidents of the Chamber of Deputies and Senate, journalists, Supreme Court justices like Alexandre de Moraes, and even government allies.
“Vigilancia Aproximada” Operation
Named “Vigilancia Aproximada,” this operation is part of an initiative launched in October 2023 called “Primera Milla,” which investigates the alleged illegal use of the FirstMile tracking app purchased during Michel Temer’s presidency.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Jair Bolsonaro? Jair Bolsonaro served as the President of Brazil from 2019 to 2023. Known for his far-right ideologies, he made significant changes during his presidency.
- What are the allegations against Bolsonaro? The Federal Police accuses Bolsonaro and his son, Carlos, of participating in an illegal spying plot targeting political rivals using the Brazilian Intelligence Agency (Abin).
- Who else is implicated in the case? Besides Bolsonaro and his son, current Abin head Luiz Fernando Correa and over thirty others have been accused of obstruction of justice.
- What was the scope of illegal surveillance? The surveillance targeted politicians, journalists, Supreme Court justices, and government allies through unlawful access to their computers and phones.
- What is the “Primera Milla” operation? Launched in October 2023, this investigation looks into the alleged misuse of the FirstMile tracking app acquired during Michel Temer’s presidency.
