Protests took place across all 26 states and the federal district of Brazil on Sunday, with citizens voicing their opposition to a potential amnesty for former President Jair Bolsonaro and his associates. These individuals were found guilty of attempting a coup.
The protests intensified following the passage of a constitutional amendment by the lower house on Tuesday. This amendment would make it difficult for lawmakers to be arrested or face criminal proceedings. The bill will now move to the Senate.
In January 2023, a coup attempt occurred. The lower house swiftly voted to pass a bill supported by right-wing opposition lawmakers. This bill could grant amnesty to Bolsonaro, his closest allies, and hundreds of supporters convicted for their roles in the January 2023 coup attempt. Bolsonaro was sentenced to 27 years and three months in prison on September 11th for attempting to remain in power after losing the 2022 election.
The Sunday demonstrations were organized and promoted by several prominent artists. Brazilian musicians Caetano Veloso, Chico Buarque, and Gilberto Gil—who faced censorship during the 1960s military dictatorship—united for a protest in Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana area.
Veloso stated on Saturday, “I was very angered by the news that many lawmakers voted in favor of a security law for themselves and their associates. Along with this, a proposal to grant amnesty to those who plotted the coup was also put forward. I think I agree with the majority of the Brazilian population, who do not want this to happen.”
Superstar Anitta, born in Rio de Janeiro, also criticized the bill. She said that the people determine the country’s politics. “We have the right and the duty to hold leaders accountable. After all, we vote, and they are elected to work for the good of the people.”
Teacher Dulce Oliveira, who participated in the protests, said that the demonstration was necessary to show the leaders what the public wants. “They are there to protect our interests, not their own.” Actor Wagner Moura participated in the demonstration in Salvador, Bahia. He addressed the crowd and said that he did not want to discuss the bill.