Brazil: Protests possible after Temer survives vote August 2 /update 1

Event

Protests are possible in the days after President Michel Temer survived a vote by the lower house of congress on Wednesday, August 2. Had it been successful, the vote would have referred Temer to the Supreme Court over bribery allegations. Many see the outcome as a gauge of the support the president has to push forward with his proposed reforms. Brazil's top prosecutor stated prior to the vote that he will file at least two more related charges, including cases of alleged racketeering and obstruction of justice, regardless of the outcome.

Context

Temer was officially charged with corruption by the Prosecutor General on Monday, June 26. The corruption allegations against Temer and his administration have increased popular discontent and deepened an already acute political crisis. A recorded conversation of President Temer purportedly showing him discussing the payment of hush money to a jailed politician led to the opening of a formal probe by the Supreme Court on May 19. The scandal has sparked various protests and prompted eight impeachment filings. Temer has reiterated that he will not step down.

On a related note, Brazil has seen a series of protests in response to reforms proposed by President Temer. Numerous opposition groups, labor unions, and civil society organizations consider former President Rousseff's ouster and Temer's arrival in office to be illegitimate.

Advice

Individuals in Brasilia and major cities across the country are advised to avoid all demonstrations and to monitor the situation. Anticipate transportation disruptions in the event protests occur.