Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has secured a historic fourth term as Brazil’s president after a dramatic comeback that saw him defeat far‑right challenger Flávio Bolsonaro in the second round of the national election.
With almost 99 % of ballots counted, the 80‑year‑old leftist won 51.75 % of the vote, while the 45‑year‑old Bolsonaro received 48.25 %. The result followed a narrow loss for Lula in the first round, where he failed to secure an outright majority and had to face a runoff against the Bolsonaro family’s political heir.
Brazil’s presidential election, held on October 2, was the first time in the country’s history that an incumbent president was re‑elected after losing the initial round. Lula’s victory marks a significant shift in Brazilian politics, as it ends the decade‑long rule of the far‑right and restores a left‑leaning administration to power.
Flávio Bolsonaro, the son of former president Jair Bolsonaro, had campaigned on a platform of strong law and order and a continuation of his father’s policies. Despite his efforts, the electorate favored Lula’s experience and promises of social and economic reform.
Lula’s win is expected to have wide-reaching implications for Brazil’s domestic agenda and its role on the international stage, as the country looks to address pressing issues such as inequality, environmental protection, and economic recovery.
<small>Source: The Guardian — read the original story there.</small>
