President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva stated on Monday (Mar. 31) that authoritarian threats “unfortunately, still insist on surviving.” In a social media post marking the anniversary of the 1964 civil-military coup, he underscored the need to defend democracy, human rights, and the people’s sovereign right to choose their leaders through voting.
“Outside of democracy, Brazil has no path to becoming a fairer and less unequal country. There can be no real inclusive development without the people’s voices being heard and respected. There is no justice without guaranteeing that institutions are solid, harmonious, and independent,” he wrote.
The civil-military coup of 1964, which marks its 61st anniversary on Tuesday, initiated a 21-year dictatorship led by generals in Brazil. During this period, direct elections were suspended, and freedom of expression and political opposition were severely restricted.
“Our people, through immense struggle, have overcome the dark chapters of their history. For 40 years, we have lived under a regime of democracy and freedom, which was further strengthened and invigorated by the 1988 Federal Constitution. This is a path I am confident we will continue to follow—never turning back,” the president added.
