‘We cannot lose our rights’ - Lula supporters rally in Rio ahead of Bolsonaro runoff
Key Takeaways
- Rio mobilisation: Lula supporters gathered in Lapa alongside artists, samba musicians and social movements.
- Political concerns: Demonstrators warned against a Bolsonaro family return and encouraged youth participation.
- Run-off approaching: Lula faces Flavio Bolsonaro on October 25 after trailing him in the first round.
Supporters gathered in Rio de Janeiro's Lapa neighbourhood, calling for political participation and warning against a return to Bolsonaro family rule ahead of the October 25 vote.
"We have to take a stand; we cannot lose our rights or our freedom to be who we are."
That was the message from Ingrid, one of several supporters of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva who gathered in Rio de Janeiro on Monday to back his re-election ahead of the October 25 presidential run-off.
The mobilisation took place in the city's historic Lapa neighbourhood, where demonstrators assembled near the Arcos de Lapa alongside artists, samba musicians, carnival school members and representatives of social movements.
The gathering was part of efforts by left-wing groups to strengthen support for Lula as he prepares to face Senator Flavio Bolsonaro of the Liberal Party (PL) in the second round.
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For some participants, the election has raised concerns about political rights and the possibility of the Bolsonaro family returning to power.
Lucas, one of the protesters, criticised the former president's political family and expressed fears about its return to government.
"I think the Bolsonaro family represents barbarity and the worst. They have already shown the worst in the history of Brazilian politics," he said.
"I think people are afraid of this family. The fear that what we have already seen will return is going to bring many people to our side."
Other demonstrators focused on voter participation, particularly among young Brazilians.
Eloisa said the election had encouraged more young people to become politically active, particularly after some voters failed to participate in the first round.
"I think there was a wave that has already passed. Many people did not go to vote because they thought the election was already decided. I think, on the one hand, it was important to attract young people, so that they also see, research and know what is behind all this. So I think young people now have much more strength in terms of protest," she said.
The Lapa demonstration followed another pro-Lula rally on Copacabana beach, with both events aimed at mobilising voters before the final round.
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According to first-round results attributed to Brazil's Superior Electoral Court, Flavio Bolsonaro secured 47.03 per cent of valid votes on October 4, while Lula received 45.16 per cent.
The two candidates will contest the October 25 run-off to determine who leads Brazil during the 2027–2030 presidential term.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
