Photo: Courtesy of RT in Spanish

Lula asserts anti-establishment candidacy and expresses confidence in victory

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva stated that he is convinced he will win the runoff election and claimed the status of an “anti-establishment” option for his candidacy. After trailing Flávio Bolsonaro in the first round.

During a coordination meeting with allies, Lula maintained that he sees no economic, social, or political reasons preventing his re-election. He called on his supporters to fight for the votes that will decide the election over the next 20 days.

“I am convinced there is no reason why we wouldn’t be elected President of the Republic in the second round,” the president stated, as reported by the UOL news portal.

With all votes counted, Flávio Bolsonaro secured 47.03 percent of valid votes compared to Lula’s 45.16 percent. Also the two will face off in the presidential runoff scheduled for October 25th.

Lula also questioned the portrayal of former President Jair Bolsonaro’s eldest son as an anti-establishment candidate.

“This country had a candidate who won the election as an anti-establishment figure. Yet he is the face of the establishment,” said the president, arguing that his own candidacy is the only one that can truly be considered anti-establishment.

Furthermore the president also highlighted public security as a central issue in the contest and advocated for greater cooperation between the federal government and the states.

According to Lula, policies implemented thus far have failed to contain organized crime. He called for the approval of a proposed constitutional amendment regarding public security.

In his remarks, the president also criticized the Supreme Federal Court (STF), stating that his administration is “bearing the burden” of what he described as the “promiscuity” entrenched within Brazil’s highest court.

The statement was made amidst questions regarding the relationships between members of the Supreme Federal Court (STF) and businessman Daniel Vorcaro—former owner of Banco Master—who has been in pretrial detention since March. As part of an investigation into financial fraud and organized crime.

Also the president acknowledged his frustration at failing to secure a victory in the first round and criticized Flávio Bolsonaro, whom he labeled an “heir to fascism.”

Both candidates now have three weeks to court voters who supported other candidates. Heading into a runoff following a first round decided by a margin of 1.87 percentage points.

With information from Prensa Latina

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