The scandal stems from an accusation that Jair Bolsonaro leaned on his former justice minister to change senior federal police officials amid investigations into members of the president's political clan.

The "Brazil can't stop" social media campaign, suggesting to most Brazilians that there was no need for isolating themselves at home, was banned by Judge Laura Bastos in Rio de Janeiro at the request of federal prosecutors.

Ignoring the pleas of public health experts, President Jair Bolsonaro said he wants to keep the economy running, scoffing at the "hysteria" surrounding a virus he calls "a little flu."

Bolsonaro, called the “the Trump of the tropics,” has turned his relationship with the U.S. president into a cornerstone of his foreign diplomacy.

"The First Temptation of Christ," is a 46-minute comedy that portrays Jesus bringing home his presumed boyfriend Orlando to meet the Holy Family.

The pardon applies to police who acted in self-defence or out of necessity, for example if while doing so they accidentally killed a bystander.

Bolsonaro was taken to the armed forces' hospital in the capital of Brasilia and underwent examinations of his skull that showed no problems, said a statement from the presidency's communications office.

He also called for solidarity with fellow South American countries and lambasted U.S. President Donald Trump, saying his border wall plan is unacceptable and aimed at keeping out poor people.

In a speech to the UN, Bolsonaro said any foreign aid to help protect the rainforest must fully respect Brazilian sovereignty.

The period of the new ban coincides with the dry season, when most fires are usually set.