Brazil: Reports of political violence follow first-round election /update 10

Event

Numerous incidents of political violence have been reported in the lead up and following the first round of Brazil's presidential election on Sunday, October 7, with such violence anticipated to continue through the second round of voting on October 28. An investigative journalism organization has recorded 50 police verified incidents of political violence by Bolsonaro supporters and six attacks against them between October 1 and 10. These include beatings, stabbings, death threats, and murder. In two separate deliberate incidents in Salvador, a man was stabbed to death and another man was wounded when he was run over by a car. Additionally, there are several reports of violence specifically targeting members of the LGBT community. Further incidents of politically-motivated violence are likely along with demonstrations and political rallies.

Context

Brazil held its presidential election on Sunday, October 7, with far-right candidate Jair Bolsonaro winning 46 percent of the vote and Fernando Haddad winning 29 percent. The two candidates will compete in a runoff election on October 28. Bolsonaro is a controversial candidate who has previously criticized democracy and supported extrajudicial violence. Haddad replaced popular former President Luiz Inácio Lula de Silva, who was ruled ineligible to run due to corruption charges.

Advice

Individuals in Brazil are advised to stay abreast of the political situation, avoid all political gatherings due to the risk of violence, remain vigilant and monitor their surroundings, and refrain from discussing politically-sensitive topics, including the election, in public.