Thousands rally in São Paulo in support of ex-president Bolsonaro

Thousands of supporters of Brazil’s former president Jair Bolsonaro gathered in São Paulo on Sunday (3 August), calling for justice reform and denouncing legal cases against the far-right leader as politically motivated.

Bolsonaro is accused of allegedly plotting a coup after he lost the 2022 general election.

The protesters called for "amnesty" for those involved in the alleged coup attempt days after Lula's inauguration in January 2023.

Bolsonaro, who did not attend the rally in person, addressed the crowd via a recorded message, repeating claims of election fraud and saying Brazil’s institutions had been "hijacked."

He has denied any wrongdoing.

The former president, who is on house arrest, wears an electronic ankle bracelet and cannot leave his home on weekends and holidays, as per an order from Justice Moraes.

Waving Brazilian flags and chanting slogans, protesters claimed Bolsonaro is a victim of political persecution by the Supreme Court and the electoral authorities. Some held signs urging the military to intervene, while others demanded the release of Bolsonaro allies currently in custody.

This is the latest in a series of demonstrations by Bolsonaro’s base, which remains vocal despite a ban that prevents him from running for office until 2030.

Critics say the rallies stoke political division and undermine Brazil’s democracy, while supporters frame them as a defence of freedom and national sovereignty.

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