A far-right political figure with deep ties to Brazil’s controversial former president has secured an unexpected first-round victory in the country’s presidential race, raising concerns among critics about a potential return to authoritarianism. The son of the disgraced ex-leader has pledged to "re-democratise" Brazil, a claim that contrasts sharply with his father’s past admiration for the military dictatorship that ruled the nation for over two decades. Analysts warn his rise could signal a resurgence of the Bolsonaro family’s influence, with implications for Brazil’s fragile democratic institutions. The victory underscores the growing political dominance of a faction that has long challenged the country’s post-dictatorship progress.
After a surprise first-round victory, critics suggest son of disgraced ex-president could seek to continue his father’s authoritarian projectFlávio’s surprise first-round win highlights rapid rise of Brazil’s House of BolsonaroFlávio Bolsonaro, the far-right frontrunner to become Brazil’s next president, has vowed to “re-democratise” the South American country, increasing fears about a move into authoritarian rule if he wins power.Brazil was re-democratised in the 1980s after a brutal 21-year dictatorship that Flávio’s father, the disgraced ex-president Jair Bolsonaro, has long praised. Continue reading...
