Brazil's Lula, 80, Announces Fourth-Term Bid, Citing Stamina and Sovereignty
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, aged 80, officially launched his candidacy for the October elections on Sunday, declaring he is "in great shape" and ready to combat aging through physical exercise. Addressing a convention of his Workers' Party (PT) in São Paulo attended by around 3,000 people, Lula emphasized his stamina and health, noting he is fitter now than when first elected in 2002. The leftist leader, a polarizing figure in Latin American politics, outlined plans to boost Brazil's defense industry and protect its rare minerals, asserting that no foreign power—Chinese, American, or French—would access these resources without respecting national sovereignty. He called for greater daring to enact change in the country. Lula's campaign faces pressure from the administration of US President Donald Trump. The former metalworker and union leader made a dramatic political comeback three years ago after a prison stint on corruption charges that were later annulled.
Key facts
- Lula announced his candidacy for October elections on Sunday.
- He is 80 years old and declared he is 'in great shape'.
- The announcement was made at a Workers' Party convention in São Paulo attended by around 3,000 people.
- Lula emphasized his stamina and health, saying he works out his legs and arms and walks for an hour.
- He claimed he is far fitter than when first elected in 2002.
- Lula plans to boost Brazil's defense industry and protect rare minerals.
- He said no Chinese, American, or French will touch these resources without respecting Brazil's sovereignty.
- His campaign faces pressure from the Trump administration.
- Lula returned to power three years ago after a jail stint on corruption charges that were later annulled.
Entities
Artists
- Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva
Institutions
- Workers' Party (PT)
Locations
- Brazil
- São Paulo