Regarding his abrupt departure to the United States, Bolsonaro has now offered an explanation. On October 29, while already in the U.S., he stated that he was speaking as Brazil’s legitimate elected president to both the Brazilian people and the international community. Last Sunday evening, I watched in horror as election “fraud” unfolded before my eyes. I extend my gratitude to President Trump and the great American people for their welcome. What is happening here is a politically motivated "witch hunt" aimed at holding me hostage.
I did not leave my homeland out of desire, but I clearly foresaw where this situation would lead. I did not flee Brazil. I left for Brazil’s sake. I have stepped out of a state of exception in order to become the leader my people deserve. Faced with the politicization of Brazil’s judicial system, I brought my family to the United States. From here, I will lead the opposition. I urge the international community not to normalize what is currently unfolding in Brazil.
How should one interpret Bolsonaro’s statement? In fact, one of his supporters wrote: Shut your mouth! You abandoned us. Bolsonaro, your allies and even your own party have already acknowledged Lula’s victory, and they have gone on to elect numerous governors and members of Congress. That hardly resembles fraud, does it? Stop justifying yourself. You are a lying scoundrel. Don’t run away like a coward. Go back home and fight like a real man.
Evidently, even Bolsonaro’s own political base appears unconvinced by his justification. This lack of credibility is all the more pronounced among Lula’s supporters. In truth, Lula has lost multiple elections before; when facing accusations, he chose to serve time in prison rather than leave Brazil. Other defeated presidential candidates in Brazil have similarly remained in the country after their defeats. Many of Bolsonaro’s supporters remain skeptical—because explanations falter in the face of facts. Those who truly love their nation and value its sovereignty are unlikely to welcome foreign intervention in domestic politics. Bolsonaro commands significant support; had he faced judicial injustice, his party and followers would have stood firmly behind him. Yet today, he appears isolated, having left Brazil.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1880341786990602/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.