Brazil Riots 2023 explained: Who are protesting and why?

Thousands of rioters barged into the presidential palace, Supreme Court and Congress in Brazil. These rioters have claimed that they are supporters of former Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro, according to reports.

The mob violence lasted over three hours. So far, around 300 rioters have been arrested in connection with riots in Brazil.

Leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva had defeated Jair Bolsonaro in the presidential election in October. The Presidential polls were one of the tightest in the country's history.


Lula was president of Brazil from 2003 to 2011.

Who Are Brazil Rioters?

Incumbent Brazil President Lula has termed rioters as "fanatical fascists". He also said that riots were unprecedented in the country's history.

President Lula has vowed that all culprits will be traced and punished.

The protesters, who ransacked the presidential palace, Supreme Court and Congress in Brazil, have claimed that they are far-right supporters of former president Bolsonaro.

Why These Protests?

Bolsonaro disputed the election victory of Lula in October last year.

However, soon after election result, Bolsonaro's supporters gathered outside military bases across Brazil seeking army intervention to stop Lula.

Subsequently, truckers, who were supporters of Bolsonaro, blocked roads.

The protests continued through November as Bolsonaro's supporters organized rallies demanding military's intervention.

On November 222, Bolsonaro challenged the results of Presidential election alleging a large number of votes must be deemed 'invalid'.

January 8 riots

On Christmas Eve, a man was arrested for trying to blast a bomb in protest against results of Brazil presidential elections.

On December 29, four people were arrested allegedly for coup attempt.

Lula was sworn in as president of Brazil on January 1.

On January 8, thousands of people stormed Brasilia Capitol.

FAQs

1. Is Brazil a poor or rich country?
   Brazil is a middle income developing mixed economy.
2. Is Brazil in Africa or Asia?
   Brazil is located in South America.