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A state court has ruled that Jair Bolsonaro provide R$1 million (around £138,000) in collective moral damages for remarks considered discriminatory during his tenure in office.

Fresh Ruling Comes After Prior Sentence

This ruling comes less than a week after he was handed a sentence of over two decades and three months in jail for leading an unsuccessful power grab designed to nullify the outcome of the national vote.

Details of the Offensive Remarks

While holding a 2021 interaction in front of the presidential palace, he according to the case referred to the textured curls of a Black supporter as a “habitat for pests.”

Additionally, he suggested that the supporter might have parasites, asking, “What grows in that mop of hair?”

Judicial Arguments and Outcome

His legal team contended that the words were not intended to cause offence, highlighting that the man himself said he was not offended.

But, the panel concluded that the comments constituted “humorous bigotry” and were not mere jokes or lawful opinion.

“Discriminatory language masked by playful jokes, associating Black power hair to vermin symbolizing filth and revulsion, violates the respect and self-worth of Black people and strengthens the stigma of inferiority,” stated the presiding judge.

Background of the Case

The case was brought by public prosecutors and the public defender’s office, referencing several distinct comments delivered by the former president during public interactions in 2021.

Although a lower court had thrown out the claim, the appeals court collectively ruled against the defendant, though they assigned a smaller fine than the initial request.

Along with the defendant, the Brazilian government was also ordered to pay R$1 million. Both may still appeal the decision.

Present Status of Bolsonaro

At present, Bolsonaro remains under detention at residence at his residence in his home, barred from using social media.

The former leader has remained silent on the latest verdict.

Shortly after the verdict, he was taken to a hospital due to a serious episode of hiccups, nausea, and drop in BP, stated by one of his sons on an online platform.

This was subsequent to a previous medical visit for the excision of growths.

Personal Statements

A member of Bolsonaro’s children, an elected official, commented on news of the conviction with the statement: “Democracy prevails!”

The defendant’s supporters assert that the proceedings against him are political persecution.

In the case, legal representatives may still submit a last challenge before a ruling is made on the facility he will complete his sentence.