São Paulo voters raise sovereignty and BRICS concerns ahead of election
Residents of São Paulo have voiced concerns about Brazil’s sovereignty and international role as the country prepares for Sunday’s presidential election between President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Senator Flávio Bolsonaro.
Voter Danilo described the election as one of Brazil’s most consequential, saying he feared the result could expose the country to pressure from foreign powers. “I really believe that, depending on the outcome of the election, we could face some sort of foreign intervention, particularly from the US,” he said.
The comments came as the US suspended consular services at its embassy and consulates in Brazil on Friday, citing unspecified security concerns. Washington did not link the decision to Sunday’s election.
Another resident, Roberto, said he believed the timing of the closures was intended to influence voters, describing it as “foreign interference”. His claim has not been established by US authorities, which have said the suspension was for security reasons.
Brazil’s role in BRICS was also among voters’ concerns. Resident Andre said he believed a Bolsonaro victory could significantly alter Brazil’s position within the bloc, while a Lula victory would maintain its current direction.
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More than 158 million Brazilians are eligible to vote on Sunday. If no candidate receives more than half of valid votes, a second round will be held on October 25.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
