Will Bolsonaro finally disclose his Covid-19 test results?

First Lady Michelle Bolsonaro, President Jair Bolsonaro, VP Hamilton Mourão. Photo: Alan Santos/PR

On Monday, a federal judge ruled that President Jair Bolsonaro had 48 hours to disclose the results of his two Covid-19 tests, which he took on March 12 and 17. This deadline ends today. If he doesn’t comply, the president will have to pay a BRL 5,000 fine for each day he refuses to publish his results. However, the president could stall the decision if his newly-appointed Solicitor General, José Levi Mello, lodges an appeal. The court ruling refers to a lawsuit filed by newspaper O Estado de S.Paulo, which requested the results based on the Access to Information Act.

The Brazilian Report asked the Solicitor General’s Office whether it had appealed, but so far no confirmation has been issued. Mr. Bolsonaro has said he has no problem in showing his test results, but called the issue a “personal matter.” At least 23 people who were a part of the president’s entourage on a trip to the U.S. subsequently contracted the coronavirus.

Brenno Grillo

Brenno has worked as a journalist since 2012, specializing in coverage related to law and the justice system. He has worked for O Estado de S. Paulo, Portal Brasil, ConJur, and has experience in political campaigns.