Bolsonaro may struggle to lead Brazil's opposition

Significance

His testimony is part of an investigation of a case involving importing jewels illegally from a presidential visit to Saudi Arabia. When this case emerged, Bolsonaro was in self-imposed exile in Florida, whence he returned on March 30. His supporters expect him to lead the opposition to President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Impacts

• Bolsonaro may recover his former political strength, but it will not be a straightforward process.
• Bolsonaro’s ongoing health problems may represent a greater obstacle to his continued leadership than political competitors.
• The government may not benefit from Bolsonaro’s weaker position; a new poll gives Lula only 38% approval, with 29% disapproval.
• As a former president, Bolsonaro can no longer seek to present himself as a 'political outsider' as he did in 2018.