Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro energised a crowd of 3,500 conservative supporters at CPAC Brasil 2024, showcasing the enduring strength of Brazil’s right-wing movement. The event, held in the picturesque beach resort of Balneario Camboriu, served as a platform for Bolsonaro to project his influence ahead of crucial municipal elections and the 2026 presidential race.
Despite facing a ban from seeking elected office until 2030, Bolsonaro remains a powerful figure in Brazilian politics. His supporters enthusiastically chanted, “We want Bolsonaro back,” demonstrating his unwavering appeal among conservative voters.
During his speech, Bolsonaro expressed optimism about the global conservative movement, highlighting recent gains in Italy and France. Moreover, he voiced his hope for former U.S. President Donald Trump’s return to the White House, declaring, “God willing, it will be Trump in November.”
The rally featured a lineup of speakers who passionately criticised the current leftist government of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. They advocated for traditional conservative values, including pro-life policies, gun rights, and a strong stance against drugs.
Interestingly, the event also attracted international right-wing figures. Former Chilean presidential candidate Jose Antonio Kast addressed the crowd, while Argentina’s libertarian president, Javier Milei, was slated to speak at the closing session.
Political scientist Guilherme Casaroes observed that the presence of these international guests suggests Bolsonaro’s ambition to position Brazil as a hub for far-right coordination in the hemisphere. He noted, “The CPAC event will serve as a platform for Brazil’s extremists to make their narrative global.”
Although Bolsonaro is currently under investigation for his alleged role in the January 2023 storming of government buildings, his ability to draw large crowds remains undiminished. This gathering demonstrated his and the right-wing’s continued influence on Brazil’s political landscape.
With inputs from Reuters
