Brazilians demonstrate in acts of support for Bolsonaro and Lula

Tens of thousands of Brazilians took to the streets in the main cities of the country this Sunday to participate in acts of support for President Jair Bolsonaro and others in support of former president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, anticipating a climate of polarisation for the presidential election in October.

Bolsonaro arrived around noon at the Esplanade of the Ministries in front of the Congress in Brasilia, a meeting point for his supporters in the capital, who cheered him by shouting "myth", many wearing Brazilian shirts.

"Greet those who are here in the peaceful demonstration in defence of the Constitution, democracy and freedom. Congratulations to all," Bolsonaro said, in a live broadcast on social networks that accompanied his walk.

After closely greeting the protesters, the president left without offering a speech, unlike other acts. Later, he greeted supporters who gathered on Paulista Avenue in Sao Paulo.

The far-right president is leading an escalation of tension with the Supreme Federal Court (STF), after last week he decided to pardon the allied deputy Daniel Silveira one day after the highest court sentenced him to more than 8 years in prison for promoting undemocratic acts.

The official acts, which were also replicated in Rio de Janeiro, in addition to showing support for the president and Silveira, carried slogans with attacks on the Court.

Silveira, favoured by forgiveness, participated and spoke at the event in Rio de Janeiro, in front of Copacabana beach. "The Supreme is the people. Enough with the dictatorship of the STF," read one of the posters in Copacabana.