Incumbent Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has won a historic fourth term after defeating right-wing senator Flavio Bolsonaro in the presidential runoff on Sunday. Lula received 51.75 per cent of the votes, while Bolsonaro secured 48.25 per cent. The victory marks a major comeback for the 80-year-old leader, who had trailed his rival in the first round of voting.
Lula Reelected For The 4th Time
Lula's victory is historic as he is the first presidential candidate since Brazil returned to democracy in 1985 to win the presidency after finishing second in the first round. He first contested the presidential election in 1989 but won the post for the first time in 2002. He secured another victory in 2006 and returned to power in 2022 after spending time in prison on corruption charges that were later overturned.
A Look At Lula's Campaign
After losing the first round on October 4, Lula had changed his campaign strategy, holding large rallies across the country. His supporters used the slogan "Never Again Bolsonaro" to remind voters of former president Jair Bolsonaro's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, cuts to public programmes and damage to the Amazon rainforest. He also worked to connect with young voters.
Interestingly, he bought his first smartphone (a Samsung phone) and recorded selfies and videos with supporters, which became quite popular on social media. The leader had long avoided having a personal mobile phone and relied on his chief of staff, assistants, or his wife to manage communications.
What Are The Challenges Ahead For Him
Despite his historic victory, Lula is likely to face several challenges during his fourth term as Brazil's new Congress is more conservative. This can make it difficult for him to pass laws and carry out his plans. Also, rising living costs and concerns about public safety remain key issues for many Brazilians. His fourth term will begin on January 5, 2027 and will lead the country until 2030.
India-Brazil Ties
Over the years as Brazil’s President, Lula has stressed the importance of Brazil's relationship with India. Earlier, speaking at the India-Brazil Economic Forum in New Delhi in February, he called India a “democratic brother of the Global South” and set a target of increasing bilateral trade to USD 30 billion.
“What is really more important is that when we’re talking about a negotiation with a country like India, we are not dealing with a coloniser,” Lula had said, highlighting the importance of equality and mutual respect between the two countries.
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