Bolsonaro supporters violently attack the Brazilian Congress, Presidential Palace, and Supreme Court Buildings
Supporters of the former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro invaded the Brazilian Congress on the afternoon of the 8th of January. They also stormed the Presidential Palace and the Supreme Court. This marked a significant increase in the political crisis that has been ongoing in Brazil. It was made worse by false claims from his supporters who claimed the election last year was rigged.
Bolsonaro, who has also refused to concede the elections, is often called the Donald Trumps of Brazil. Bolsonaro has even gone so far as to refer to himself still as the President of Brazil, and his words have orchestrated the uprising that occurred in Brazil.
According to reports, the protesters were mostly made up of groups of extreme right and Bolsonaro supporters. They demanded that current President Luiz inacio da Silva be impeached. The protesters clashed violently with federal troops and police. Several people were injured.
The crisis’ origins can be traced to Bolsonaro’s presidency. It was marked by controversy, and policies that divided people. Bolsonaro is a politician of the far right, known for his incendiary rhetoric and support for military dictatorships that ruled Brazil between 1964 and 1985. He was elected on a platform for law and order, economic reform, and his support for Brazil’s military dictatorship.
His presidency was marred however by accusations of corruption, abuses of human rights, and failure to solve the economic problems in the country. Bolsonaro’s approval ratings dropped, and he was the subject of widespread protests as well as calls for his removal.
The COVID-19 pandemic that hit Brazil and caused a severe economic decline exacerbated the situation. Bolsonaro was criticized for his handling of the crisis, which many deemed inadequate and irresponsible. His popularity also plummeted.
Luiz inacio Lula da So, a left-leaning member of Workers’ Party was elected the new president of Brazil on October 20, 2022. Bolsonaro, and his supporters, refused to accept the results, claiming voter fraud, and called for Bolsonaro to be removed.
Many leaders have condemned the events of the 8th of January, and called for calm. Canada, The United Nations and the Organization of American States all released statements condemning violence.
It is not clear how to resolve the crisis in Brazil. It is evident that the events on January 8 have escalated the political crisis. All sides must work together to reach a peaceful solution.
