On the morning of Sunday, June 15th, the proverbial improbable happened: Former president and current favorite for the upcoming Brazilian presidential election, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, made an astounding return to power. Lula’s triumphant morning speech and responses to subsequent questions from the Brazilian media celebrated a momentous occasion for the nation, and for the hundreds of thousands of excited citizens who gathered outside of the wing of the Brazilian Air Force 4 to greet him.
Brazilians Fervently Rejoice Lula’s Return
For many Brazilians, the return of Lula (more commonly known as “Lula”) had tremendous significance, both personally and nationally. In his speech, Lula spoke of the importance of his return, acknowledging the hard fought battle and the ground that had been broken along the way:
“Today I can say to the Brazilian and I say with the moral strength derived from the truth that I and my family led, I say with authority: never, under any circumstances a citizen can be caged for accusations of which he is innocent,” Lula told the crowd.
The profound national sentiment that morning was echoed throughout the country as Brazilian citizens, eagerly awaiting the address of this beloved leader, took to the streets. Vibrant festivities, including food, dancing and singing, brought people together in collective celebration.
The Political Trials of Lula
Lula’s morning speech on the tarmac provided a unique opportunity to reflect on the past and the struggles encountered by Lula and his supporters. Lula had previously faced twelve years of nonstop political trials, culminating in a 2018 conviction for corruption, for which he was imprisoned, though he claims to be innocent. In May 2019, the Bolsonaro government failed to bring an appeal against his candidacy, paving the way for his seemingly miraculous return to power.
A Long and Winding Road
The journey between the moment of Lula’s 2016 detention and the triumphant return to power was long and arduous. Even throughout his incarceration, Lula remained determined, serving as a source of inspiration and a uniting power for Brazilian citizens. His legendary resilience, when combined with his immense popularity among the people of Brazil, resulted in a once-in-a-lifetime political feat.
Celebrations From All Corners of the Country
In immediate response to the exciting news, a flurry of activity ensued throughout the nation. School children sang the national anthem and high school students wept tears of joy. Crowds of people gathered to celebrate, with some even dancing the samba outside of Lula’s home in Sao Paolo. Posters with pictures of Lula and handmade thank you messages flooded the streets of cities large and small, and people began to imagine the possibilities of a more equal and prosperous future.
A National Symbol of Hope
The momentous return of Lula was deeply moving for many Brazilians, as it embodied a spirit of strength and perseverance. Lula has come to represent a symbol of hope and promise of a better future for millions of Brazilians. As a successful businessman, politician, and union leader, Lula has transcended his own life story to serve as an inspiring role model for many.
A Brief Overview of Lula’s Political Career
Lula first rose to national prominence in the early 1980s, when he was the leader of the newly created Workers Party. Fighting for better wages and labor rights, Lula quickly developed a reputation as an honest leader, and in 1989 he was elected to the Brazilian National Congress. In 2002, he become President of Brazil and oversaw strong economic growth and reductions in poverty — promises which he continues to make today.
The Coronavirus and Brazil’s Ongoing Political Struggles
Since his return, Lula has faced heavy scrutiny concerning his plans to develop the economy, as well as his response to the Covid-19 pandemic which has all but crippled the Brazilian economy. The country has seen countless people affected by the crisis, with a death toll far higher than most other nations.
Lula, for his part, has faced calls for a stronger response to the pandemic, with many Brazilians questioning his decision not to pursue a more extensive, nationwide quarantine. While Lula has expressed his desire to help, others have accused him of denying the importance of the situation and failing to take decisive action.
The Upcoming Elections
As the October election date approaches, many Brazilians are eager to see the outcome of this pivotal moment in history. Regardless of the outcome, there is no denying that Lula’s return to power has marked a remarkable occasion for the country, with people from all over Brazil uniting in celebration and hope.
The return of Lula to power marks an important moment in Brazil’s history. After being subject to numerous political trials and a controversial imprisonment, Lula has emerged with an inspiring message of strength, hope, and resilience. With the upcoming elections just around the corner, the eyes of the world are once again on the great nation of Brazil.
