Lula Wins Brazil Presidency
The 81-year-old incumbent defeated Flávio Bolsonaro by 4.4 million votes in Sunday's runoff, securing a fourth term despite disputes over voting hours.
By Hiroshi Sato ·
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva secured re-election as president of Brazil in the runoff held Sunday, according to the country's electoral court.
Lula received 51.8 percent of the total ballots, finishing nearly 4.4 million votes ahead of Flávio Bolsonaro. This result ends a period of uncertainty for Brazil's largest economy, which has an annual GDP of 2.6 trillion US dollars.
Flávio Bolsonaro refused to accept the outcome immediately after the counts were finalized. He called for the results to be annulled, citing disorder at polling stations caused by a last-minute extension of voting hours. The son of former president Jair Bolsonaro stated that it is impossible to recognize the election results given the circumstances.
Supreme Court Justice Cristiano Zanin ordered the two-hour extension three minutes before the original 5 p.m. local deadline. The ruling came after both campaigns requested changes due to logistical and weather issues. Lula's team cited bus delays in São Paulo and Salvador, while Bolsonaro's team pointed to heavy rain in the southern states where he had support.
Lula addressed supporters in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, thanking voters for their participation. He described the victory as a defeat for denialism and lies. The president-elect also emphasized national independence, stating that Brazil will not accept being anyone's backyard.
The election outcome runs counter to a regional trend of right-of-center candidates aligned with Washington gaining power. Lula has been a vocal critic of U.S. President Donald Trump. The win suggests that Brazil will continue to resist American demands, including higher tariffs, despite its economic ties.
Bolsonaro held a 2.2 million vote lead over Lula in the first round earlier this month. Sunday's result marks the first time since the end of the military dictatorship in 1985 that the runner-up from the first round won the presidency. Voters focused heavily on cost of living and security during the campaign.
Lula is scheduled to begin his fourth non-consecutive term on January 5, 2027. He turns 81 on Tuesday, joining Trump and Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega as the oldest sitting or incoming leaders in the Americas. Flávio Bolsonaro may request a recount if he presents evidence of fraud, though legal experts note the margin of victory is large.
Source: CBC News
