Brazil is still reeling following the breach at the capital that took place Sunday (January 8, 2023). Supporters of far right former President Jair Bolsonaro descended on government buildings, breached them, climbed on a rooftop and broke windows. Offices in the presidential palace were also broken into and damaged as was their Supreme Federal Court.
The chaos ensued following the legal election of Leftist President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who was sworn in Jan. 1. Bolsoaro and his supporters questioned the validity of the election and said the election was stolen, producing a disinformation campaign.
Brazil’s president Lula da Silva responded to the melée by authorizing federal intervention in the Federal District until the end of January. Lula da Silva has previously served two terms as president of the country. Authorities used tear gas to end the chaos. At least 300 people were arrested Sunday evening, according to Brazilian police.
There have been no immediate reports of deaths as a result of the breach.
This post was written by Nsenga K. Burton, Ph.D., founder and editor-in-chief of The Burton Wire, which celebrated its 10-year anniversary November 2022. Follow The Burton Wire on Twitter or Instagram @TheBurtonWireNews.
