Brazil’s president has expanded social welfare programs and introduced free medical treatments ahead of the upcoming election, drawing accusations from opponents that the decisions are aimed at securing votes. Critics argue the moves—including a cash-transfer boost and weight-loss injections—come at a politically sensitive time, just days before voters decide between the leftwing incumbent and a far-right challenger. The opposition candidate, backed by a former president, has been gaining support in recent weeks, adding pressure to the race. The controversy highlights concerns over policy timing as the election nears.
Critics say moves from leftwing incumbent president are electorally motivated two weeks before Brazil’s electionsBrazil’s president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, has announced a 15% increase in the country’s main cash-transfer programme for poor families, as well as free weight-loss jabs, prompting criticism from opponents who say the moves are electorally motivated just two weeks before the presidential election.On 4 October, the leftwing incumbent will face the far-right senator Flávio Bolsonaro, son of the former president Jair Bolsonaro, who has been gaining ground in recent weeks. Continue reading...
