Thousands of Bolsonaro supporters gathered at Copacabana beach to show solidarity with the former president, who is accused of attempting to overthrow his successor. Bolsonaro is preparing for a potential comeback in the 2026 elections while facing serious legal challenges. The rally also aimed to demand amnesty for those involved in the January riots in Brasilia.
On Sunday, several thousand supporters gathered at Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro to express their backing for former President Jair Bolsonaro. Accused of attempting to undermine his successor, Bolsonaro, 69, seeks to rally support ahead of the elections next year, aiming for a political resurgence similar to that of former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Among the demonstrators was 64-year-old Jose de Souza Vitorino, a former military officer, who articulated his concerns for the future, stating, “I am here because I want to leave a better Brazil for my children. We are living in a dark time.” The event featured a banner depicting Trump in solidarity after a past assassination attempt.
The rally aimed to demand amnesty for individuals convicted during the January 8, 2023, riots in Brasilia, where Bolsonaro’s supporters attacked government buildings. These events drew parallels to the January 6 Capitol riots in the United States. Prosecutors are currently investigating whether Bolsonaro orchestrated these disturbances to regain power by overthrowing President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who defeated him in the October 2022 elections.
With Brazil’s Supreme Court set to decide on potential charges against Bolsonaro, he faces over 40 years in prison if found guilty. Bolsonaro contends that he is the target of political persecution, aiming to overturn his ineligibility for public office until 2030 due to unfounded claims of electoral fraud. Independent analysts suggest the protests serve to strengthen Bolsonaro’s position among right-wing contenders for the 2026 presidential elections. He has asserted his candidacy intentions, saying, “For now, I am a candidate.” Lula’s administration also faces challenges, particularly regarding the president’s health and declining popularity amid rising inflation.
In summary, Jair Bolsonaro’s rally at Copacabana beach underscores his efforts to secure political support while he faces serious allegations regarding his conduct. With the Brazilian Supreme Court poised to evaluate evidence against him, the outcome may significantly influence his political future. Despite existing challenges, Bolsonaro remains focused on a potential comeback for the 2026 presidential elections, emphasizing his determination to contest his ineligibility regarding claims of political persecution.
Original Source: www.france24.com
