Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva was sworn in as president of Brazil for the third time on Sunday, after being sworn in before Congress.
Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva was officially sworn in as President of Brazil this Sunday, January 1, 2023 after being sworn in on the Constitution before Congress. Lula, who served two terms as head of state between 2003 and 2010, defeated far-right incumbent Jair Bolsonaro in October’s election, shifting the South American nation to the left.
A minute of silence was observed in Congress in tribute to Brazilian soccer legend Pelé, who died of cancer on Thursday, and Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who died on Saturday, just before the enthronement of Lula and his vice president. from right, Geraldo Alckmin.
Tens of thousands of supporters wearing the colors of the Workers’ Party (PT) jubilantly greeted Lula as he drove to Congress in the traditional Rolls Royce convertible, with Mr Alckmin and their wives, despite related fears to safety.
The investiture ceremonies, placed under tight security while far-right activists still do not recognize Lula’s victory, were snubbed by outgoing head of state Jair Bolsonaro, who left Brazil two days before the end of his term.
He will therefore not hand over the presidential sash to his successor as is the democratic tradition, which has not happened since 1985 and the end of the military regime.
Up to 300,000 people were expected for this day combining the pomp, with ceremonies regulated to the millimeter attended by 17 heads of state, and a popular festival with concerts.
