Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro asserts that he’s been a target of political persecution since stepping down from office a year ago. Addressing a large gathering in São Paulo, he refuted allegations of instigating a coup, calling them baseless. Bolsonaro advocates for amnesty for his supporters convicted of public building attacks. Police are probing whether he incited a failed coup post the 2022 election loss.
Speaking at Sunday’s rally, Bolsonaro, 68, dismissed the accusations as politically motivated, urging Brazil to move forward. He discussed the upcoming 2026 presidential elections, despite being ineligible to run for eight years due to undermining the electoral system and alleging election fraud without evidence.
Thousands wearing Brazil’s flag colors assembled to support Bolsonaro, emphasizing freedom of speech. They express concerns over perceived threats to his freedom for expressing opinions. Despite his warning against such posters, some repeated unverified claims of electoral fraud.
Alexandre França, a 53-year-old attendee, voiced the need to express citizens’ desires for the country’s future and freedom for all. Rogério Morgado, a 55-year-old military official, highlighted politicians’ fear of public dissent.
Authorities closely monitor Bolsonaro’s speech for any potential incitement of violence or electoral system disruption. Following allegations of attempting to overturn the 2022 election results, Bolsonaro surrendered his passport amid investigations.
After losing to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Bolsonaro’s supporters stormed government buildings, resulting in arrests and detentions. Police attribute these actions to doubts spread about the electoral system, which fueled a potential coup narrative.
Despite being abroad during the Congress attack, Bolsonaro returned unfazed, remaining a prominent figure in Brazilian right-wing politics.