Jair Bolsonaro rallies thousands at Copacabana beach, contesting his re-election ban. Facing coup charges, he claims the ban represents a “denial of democracy.” Despite being ineligible for office until 2030, he aims for a political comeback in 2026 elections. The rally serves as a statement of intent amidst significant political tensions in Brazil.
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro addressed thousands of supporters at Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro, claiming that his ban from seeking re-election is a “denial of democracy.” He faces accusations of supporting an attempted coup against his successor, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Despite being barred from public office until 2030, Bolsonaro maintains aspirations for a political comeback in next year’s elections.
The rally attracted an estimated 18,000 supporters, far from the “million” Bolsonaro had aimed for. Protesters demanded amnesty for those convicted of participating in the January 8, 2023 riots, during which Bolsonaro’s supporters stormed key government buildings, demanding military action against Lula, who had recently defeated Bolsonaro in the October 2022 elections.
Bolsonaro was in the United States during the riots, which authorities believe were part of a coup conspiracy he approved. Brazil’s Supreme Court is set to decide on March 25 whether there is adequate evidence to try him, with a possible prison sentence of over 40 years looming.
Like former US President Donald Trump, Bolsonaro presents himself as a victim of politically motivated persecution, invoking past attempts on both their lives during their political campaigns. Analysts suggest the rally served as a strategic move by Bolsonaro to assert his candidacy for the 2026 elections, emphasizing his intent to reclaim political relevance despite his current legal challenges.
In summation, Jair Bolsonaro rallies his supporters in Rio de Janeiro, claiming his electoral ban is unjust and asserting his desire to return to politics. The gathering emphasized tensions surrounding his legal issues related to coup charges, while also reflecting ongoing political divisions in Brazil. As Bolsonaro seeks to position himself for a potential comeback in the 2026 elections, the upcoming Supreme Court decision will be crucial for his political future.
Original Source: www.france24.com
