Lula wins, entering his third term as Brazilian President

On 31 October 2022 the gruelling presidential election between far-right Jair Bolsonaro and far-left Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva came to an end with Brazilian activist Lula winning the presidency. The outcome of the election was nearly unpredictable with Lula winning by a landslide of 50.9% of votes, but what led to this major moment in Brazilian politics? Acknowledging both Lulas’ history of representation for the working class, unionist ideals, and role as a “people’s leader” and Bolsonaros fascist rule, is crucial in understanding why this was a huge moment for Brazil. 

During Bolsonaros; far-right presidency many believed Brazil faced tremendous political and social setbacks as his presidency relied on the social support and approval of the country’s ruling classes and armed forces, effectively neglecting the majority of the country's demographic. During the COVID-19 pandemic Bolsonaros’ government was neglectful, putting the country through social, economic, and health declines. Furthermore, to truly nail in the fascistic ideals of Bolsonaros leadership, about 70 days prior to the October re-election Bolsonaro called on his supporters to fill the streets on 7 September and back his fictitious claims of the upcoming election being rigged. Bolsonaro encouraged a strong class and social division throughout the country.

Lula was raised by farmers who could not afford to feed him and his seven siblings, by his early 20’s Lula had begun his political career in trade-union activism. Throughout his early 20’s, Lula organised numerous strikes which challenged Brazil’s dictatorial government effectively cementing his public image as a symbol of democracy and the workers movement. Lula’s constant battle for the working class never went unnoticed and is what makes him stand out amongst other politicians. The founding of the Workers’ Party, originally characterised as a socialist party but now described as a social democracy, was another key aspect of Lulas’ representation for the working class. Interestingly, Lula had run for president three times prior to winning in 2003 when Brazil had an immense economic boom, allowing for his time in office to be recounted for massive social welfare programs which lifted millions of people from poverty. In 2007, 44th United States President, Barack Obama stated ‘He [Lula] is the most popular politician on Earth. I love this guy’. An ode to Lula;s down to Earth nature and genuine character which was then supported by his admirable 87% approval rating at the end of his two terms.  

After Lula had not been able to run for president in 2018, as he was jailed for allegedly accepting a bribe from a Brazilian construction firm in exchange for contracts with Brazil’s state oil company, he returned to the political scene as a hero. Brazil's term limits are unique in that while a presidential term lasts 4 years, with 2 consecutive terms being permitted, there must be at least one term elapsed before they may run again. Despite Bolsonaro losing the presidency many of the congressional lawmakers who won share his beliefs alluding to future pushback that Lula will have to policies when he takes office in January. In true “people’s leader” fashion, upon his win Lula stated that he would govern for all Brazilians, not just those who voted for him. Lula re-enters his role as president at a tricky moment as COP27 approaches following 2022’s highest figure of deforestation in the Amazon in the past six years. Brazil at present stands as one of the world’s biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. This will prove a tough tackle for Lula as he must be willing to contribute to the reduction of gas emissions to aid the planet in survival as the climate change crisis continues.

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has a strong history of caring for his people on a personal level, fighting for justice and equality, and supporting the impoverished as well as working class. These are qualities that any good leader should possess and makes it clear why so many Brazilians are deeply enthusiastic about his regaining of his role as president. Congratulations President Lula!

Espeana Green