Lula launches reelection campaign in birthplace of his political career

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva officially launched his campaign for reelection on Sunday at a historic event in São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo.

The event, titled “Where It All Began,” was held at the 1º de Maio Stadium in Vila Euclides, a location closely associated with the beginning of Lula’s political career as a labor leader during the major ABC Paulista strikes of the late 1970s.

Lula took the stage after speeches by São Paulo governor candidate Fernando Haddad, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, First Lady Rosângela Janja da Silva and federal lawmaker Benedita da Silva.

During his speech, Lula reflected on his political journey and said he was seeking another term in office. He also declared that, “while I am alive,” he would continue fighting and would not allow the political right to return to power.

Meanwhile, Senator Flávio Bolsonaro launched his own electoral campaign at an event on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro.