Thousands protest Brazil amnesty bills

Thousands flooded the streets of Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Brasília, rallying against a controversial congressional bill that would grant immunity to lawmakers and ease penalties for participants in the January 8, 2023 storming of government buildings. Artists, students and activists chanted “No amnesty” and displayed signs denouncing the legislation.

In Rio, legendary singer Caetano Veloso performed for more than 40 000 people on Copacabana Beach, declaring that the election of President Lula safeguards Brazilian democracy. The “musical protest” featured Gil Ber­to Gil and Chico Buarque, evoking historic anti‑dictatorship marches. São Paulo saw an estimated 42 400 demonstrators, while Rio’s crowd reached about 41 800, according to the University of São Paulo’s Monitor of Political Debate and the nonprofit More in Common. Researchers used drone photography to verify the numbers, which represent the largest left‑wing turnout since Lula’s 2022 victory.

Protesters targeted two measures: the “shield bill,” which would make it harder to prosecute legislators, and a separate amnesty proposal for those convicted of the 2023 coup attempt, including former President Jair Bolsonaro, who recently received a 27‑year prison sentence. Critics argue the bills protect corrupt officials and threaten democracy. Social‑media analysis shows roughly 83 % of posts criticize the immunity bill.

The demonstrations spread to at least 22 state capitals, organized by left‑wing movements and prominent cultural figures. Ana Paula Brito, a 37‑year‑old nanny from São Paulo, explained she marched to oppose Bolsonaro’s pardon and the amendment shielding politicians, accusing the elite of stealing while neglecting public funds. Actor Wagner Moura addressed crowds in Salvador, emphasizing the historic significance of the moment for Brazilian democracy.

The lower house recently passed a constitutional amendment that raises the bar for arresting lawmakers, sending it to the Senate, and fast‑tracked a right‑wing‑backed bill that could grant amnesty to Bolsonaro and his allies. Historically, right‑wing mobilizations have been three times larger than left‑wing ones, but recent opposition to U.S. tariffs and the amendment has revived leftist street activity.

Polls reveal a nation still split over Bolsonaro: a Datafolha survey conducted mid‑September found 50 % of respondents favor his imprisonment, 43 % oppose it and 7 % abstained. The protests thus reflect a broad coalition of citizens, artists and activists determined to block legislation they view as an affront to accountability and democratic norms.