Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro denounces a re-election ban as a denial of democracy at a rally in Rio de Janeiro, mobilizing supporters despite facing serious legal accusations. He hopes to reverse his electoral disqualification, aiming to remain a key political figure ahead of the 2026 elections, amid challenges affecting his rival, President Lula.
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has criticized a ban preventing him from running for office as a “denial of democracy.” Speaking at a demonstration in Rio de Janeiro, he rallied several thousand supporters, despite facing allegations of attempting to overthrow his successor, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro, although barred from holding elected office until 2030, views himself as a frontrunner for the upcoming elections.
He vocally challenged those who oppose him, stating, “elections without Bolsonaro is a denial of democracy in Brazil.” Bolsonaro’s supporters echoed similar sentiments, with some claiming that attempts to imprison him are cowardly and politically motivated. The demonstration aimed to demand amnesty for those convicted during the January 8, 2023 riots, where Bolsonaro’s supporters attempted an insurrection.
Critics note that this rally was smaller compared to a previous event held at the same spot, highlighting Bolsonaro’s declining momentum. The riots have drawn parallels to the January 2021 Capitol insurrection in the United States, where Bolsonaro was in the U.S. at the time and is suspected to have been complicit in planning.
Brazil’s Supreme Court will review the evidence against Bolsonaro on March 25, where a conviction could lead to a significant prison sentence. Like former U.S. President Donald Trump, Bolsonaro claims political persecution aimed at silencing him. He holds aspirations to overturn his ineligibility for public office due to past baseless allegations regarding Brazil’s electoral system.
Political analysts suggest the demonstration served to solidify Bolsonaro’s intentions to remain a contender for the 2026 election while also sending a message to his conservative rivals. Despite significant challenges, Bolsonaro has publicly maintained that he is still a candidate for upcoming elections, amplifying concerns regarding President Lula’s declining popularity amid persistent inflation and health worries.
Jair Bolsonaro continues to assert his political ambitions despite a ban on seeking office until 2030. His recent rally in Rio de Janeiro, although smaller than previous gatherings, reflects his determination to position himself as a leading candidate for 2026 elections. The ongoing legal challenges and public discourse surrounding his alleged coup involvement raise questions about his political future, amidst growing concerns for his rival, President Lula.
Original Source: www.thenews.com.pk
