Thousands of Gen Z students and young people have taken to the streets of Brazil’s capital and other major cities, raising tension ahead of a presidential runoff that will shape the country’s future.
Protesters say the return of a hard-right leadership would threaten democratic institutions as well as citizens’ fundamental rights and freedoms.
The demonstrations follow the first-round results, in which Flavio Bolsonaro won an unexpectedly strong 47 per cent of the vote against 45 per cent for incumbent left-wing President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. As neither candidate secured a majority, the two will contest a runoff on October 25.
Flavio is the son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is serving a prison sentence over allegations of serious corruption and anti-democratic conduct. Students allege that a Flavio victory would revive authoritarian tendencies and erode a free society. Protesters have adopted the slogan “No father, no son.”
Demonstrators also fear for Brazil’s independence in decision-making, pointing to Flavio Bolsonaro’s good relations with US President Donald Trump and warning that Brazil could become a virtual colony of the United States. They are calling for protection of the country’s future and environment, safeguards against privatisation of the power sector, and equal rights for all.