On the 61st anniversary of the 1964 coup, Lula says "authoritarian threats still insist on surviving"

247 – On the 61st anniversary of the 1964 military coup, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT) emphasized the importance of defending democracy in the face of "authoritarian threats that still insist on surviving." According to Lula, the democratic front must remain united against these threats to human rights and the sovereignty of the Brazilian people.

“Today is a day to remember the importance of democracy, human rights, and the sovereignty of the people to choose their leaders at the ballot box and shape their future. And to remain strong and united in its defense against authoritarian threats that, unfortunately, still insist on surviving,” he stated.

According to the president, democracy is the main path toward inclusive and less unequal development in the country. “Outside of democracy, there are no paths for Brazil to become a fairer and less unequal country. There is no true inclusive development without the voice of the people being heard and respected. There is no justice without ensuring that institutions are solid, harmonious, and independent,” he said.

Finally, Lula highlighted the struggle of the Brazilian people against the military regime and the role of the 1988 Constitution in consolidating democracy. “Our people, through much struggle, overcame the darkest periods of our history. For 40 years, we have lived in a democratic regime of freedoms, which became even stronger and more vibrant with the Federal Constitution of 1988. This is a path that, I am sure, we will continue to follow. Without ever going backward,” he concluded.