Bolsonaro Supporters Rally Across Brazil as Son Prepares Presidential Bid

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — Thousands of supporters of Brazil’s former President Jair Bolsonaro demonstrated in cities across the country on Sunday, March 1, 2026, as organizers aimed to build momentum for a right-wing victory in the upcoming presidential elections. The demonstrations come as Bolsonaro remains imprisoned for attempting a coup following his 2022 electoral defeat.

Protests Reflect Opposition to Lula’s Government

Protesters, many draped in the yellow and green of the Brazilian flag, took to the streets in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and the capital Brasilia to voice their opposition to current President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who is seeking a fourth, nonconsecutive term in October.

Flávio Bolsonaro Emerges as Right-Wing Candidate

Flávio Bolsonaro, the ex-president’s son, was chosen by his father to stand against Lula. He has been actively rallying the right around his candidacy. “This year will be decisive for all Brazilians,” Flávio Bolsonaro said on Instagram ahead of the demonstration. “We’re one step away from succeeding at rescuing our Brazil.”

Bolsonaro’s Imprisonment and Allegations of Persecution

Jair Bolsonaro is currently serving a 27-year sentence for attempting a coup after his 2022 electoral defeat to Lula. Bolsonaro was sentenced last September by a panel of Supreme Court justices. Many of his supporters believe he is the victim of political persecution.

Calls for Bolsonaro’s Release and Criticism of the Supreme Court

“We believe that 2026 will be the year of the turning point. We have a project led by President Bolsonaro, which was entrusted to Flávio Bolsonaro,” said Douglas Ruas dos Santos, a state lawmaker at the protest in Rio. Flávio Bolsonaro criticized the Supreme Court during his speech, accusing it of “destroying democracy.” Protesters also targeted Justices Alexandre de Moraes and José Antonio Dias Toffoli.

Recent Polls Show Tight Race

Recent polls indicate a close race between Flávio Bolsonaro and Lula in a hypothetical run-off vote. Pablo Ortellado, a professor of public policy at the University of Sao Paulo, noted that Flávio Bolsonaro is consolidating himself as the right’s nominee ahead of October’s vote.

Demonstration Imagery and Slogans

In Sao Paulo, signs reading “Free Bolsonaro” were prominent on Paulista Avenue. Inflatable figures depicted Lula in prison clothing and Bolsonaro with the presidential sash. Some protesters waved American flags. The slogan “Wake up Brazil” was a central theme of the marches, with Igor Jardim, a 45-year-old military officer, stating that Brazil needed to “wake up.” Jardim expressed his support for Flávio’s candidacy, citing his “good proposals” and “appropriate motivation.”