Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva led a mass rally in Rio ahead of Sunday's election, claiming only he can stop far-right 'fascists' from reclaiming power under his rightwing rival Flávio Bolsonaro.
Key facts
- President Lula led a large rally through Rio ahead of Brazil's election on Sunday.
- Lula, 80, claimed he is the only person who can prevent far-right 'fascists' from reclaiming power.
- He said he decided to seek a historic fourth term because of this belief.
- His rightwing rival is Flávio Bolsonaro.
- The Guardian described the vote as the most important Brazilian election for decades.
Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has claimed he is the only thing standing in the way of far-right “fascists” reclaiming power, as he led a large rally through the streets of Rio ahead of Sunday’s election, according to the Guardian.
Speaking on the eve of the demonstration, the 80-year-old leftwing leader said he had decided to seek a historic fourth term because he believed only he could prevent the family of his rightwing rival, Flávio Bolsonaro, from returning to government.
The Guardian reported that the Sunday vote is seen as the most important Brazilian election for decades, underscoring the high stakes attached to the contest between Lula and the Bolsonaro camp.
The election pits Lula’s long-running leftwing movement against the continuation of the Bolsonaro family’s political presence in Brazilian politics.
Lula’s framing of the race as a choice between his leadership and the rise of what he called fascism sets the tone for the final days of campaigning before voters head to the polls.
Why it matters
Brazil is Latin America's largest economy and democracy, so the outcome of this election carries weight well beyond its borders. Lula's stark framing of the contest as a battle against the far right signals deep polarisation as voters prepare to decide the country's direction.
Frequently asked questions
When is Brazil's election taking place?
According to the Guardian, the election is scheduled for Sunday, following Lula's rally in Rio.
Who is Lula running against?
The Guardian reports that Lula's rightwing rival is Flávio Bolsonaro, the son of former president Jair Bolsonaro.
Why is this election considered significant?
The Guardian described the vote as the most important Brazilian election for decades.