Thousands of Bolsonaro’s supporters rallied at Copacabana beach in Rio, demonstrating backing for the former president amidst significant legal challenges. The event aims to show strength ahead of upcoming elections and demands amnesty for convicted rioters from the January 8 riots. Bolsonaro seeks to become a candidate in the 2026 elections, despite being ineligible until 2030 due to fraud allegations.
On Sunday, thousands gathered at Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro to express their support for former President Jair Bolsonaro, who faces accusations of attempting to undermine his left-leaning successor. Bolsonaro, 69, aims to galvanize supporters ahead of the upcoming elections, emulating the political resurgence of former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Among the demonstrators, 64-year-old Jose de Souza Vitorino articulated concern for future generations, stating, “I am here because I want to leave a better Brazil for my children. We are living in a dark time.” A prominent banner at the rally connected Bolsonaro to Trump, showcasing the latter’s raised fist following a violent campaign incident.
The rally primarily sought amnesty for those convicted during the January 8, 2023 riots, wherein Bolsonaro’s supporters stormed key government buildings. Demonstrators called for military intervention against President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who recently triumphed over Bolsonaro in the October 2022 elections, echoing the January 6 insurrection in the United States.
Prosecutors allege that these riots originated from Bolsonaro’s conspiracy to reclaim power. On March 25, Brazil’s Supreme Court will deliberate on the evidence concerning Bolsonaro, who faces potential imprisonment exceeding 40 years. Bolsonaro, branded the “Trump of the Tropics,” claims political persecution is preventing his return to power.
Despite being barred from holding public office until 2030 due to allegations of electoral fraud, Bolsonaro seeks to overturn this prohibition in order to run again in 2026. Political analyst Andre Rosa suggested that the protests reflect Bolsonaro’s aim to consolidate his position among rivals and assert his candidacy for future elections. He reiterated, “For now, I am a candidate,” signaling his continued ambitions in Brazilian politics amidst concerns regarding Lula’s presidency, especially regarding his health and declining popularity due to inflation.
In summary, thousands congregated in Rio de Janeiro, demonstrating fervent support for Jair Bolsonaro amidst serious legal challenges and political aspirations. As Bolsonaro endeavored to position himself for a political comeback, significant attention was drawn to the ongoing debates regarding eligibility and accusations of orchestrating insurrection. This rally not only highlights Bolsonaro’s enduring influence but also encapsulates the broader tensions within Brazilian politics, particularly with President Lula’s administration.
Original Source: www.france24.com
