The Upsides and Downsides of Bolsonaro’s Presidency in Brazil

Electing Jair Bolsonaro as the president of Brazil has been a polarizing event. Proponents see positive sides, while critics highlight the negative impacts.

Pros of Bolsonaro’s Presidency

Some argue that Bolsonaro’s presidency brings about certain positive aspects. One such benefit is his potential to rehabilitate Lula da Silva as a statesman and patriot. Unlike Bolsonaro, Lula is portrayed as a more relatable and human figure. This could reignite interest among the population and prompt more active engagement in the country's affairs. Additionally, Bolsonaro's actions could push people out of their inertia, encouraging them to make decisions about their futures. While some may choose to leave Brazil, others may be spurred to address the rise of neopentecostal churches and the fanaticism and superstition they promote.

Cons of Bolsonaro’s Presidency

The downsides of Bolsonaro’s presidency are substantial. His actions have already tarnished the country’s dignity and have had severe repercussions on the economic, social, and political environments. The political and scientific institutions, once held in high regard, are now under threat due to Bolsonaro’s detrimental influence.

Political and Scientific Institutions

Bolsonaro and his allies are under suspicion for involvement in a series of crimes, including connections with the infamous Rio “militias” and cyber-attacks against judges investigating his businesses. His approval of Floriano as a vice-president only exacerbates the negative sentiment towards his presidency, making him akin to a mini-Saddam Hussein. Internationally, Bolsonaro also faces criticism for his actions, such as tweeting about a “golden shower,” blaming Leonardo DiCaprio for Amazon fires, and paying tribute to torturers.

Health and Security Concerns

Brazil is also grappled with a pandemia, which has been further complicated by a period of pandemonium. Both the pandemic and the political chaos have had profound impacts on the nation. Furthermore, his policies have been criticized for exacerbating social issues and economic inequality, with his Minister of Economy being portrayed as an enemy of the poor, a radical neo-liberal, and someone bent on dismantling the state.

The Intention and Implications

Brazilians are grappling with the implications of Bolsonaro’s presidency. Some see hope in rehabilitating Lula and bridging the gap between the populace and the institutions. However, many also recognize the risks and challenges associated with his administration. As more information comes to light, the focus remains on the future of Brazil under Bolsonaro's leadership.

Conclusion

While there may be some positive sides to Bolsonaro’s presidency, the majority of the opinions lean towards the negative. The stakes are high, and the path forward for Brazil remains uncertain. As more information becomes available, only time will tell what the true impact of Bolsonaro’s presidency will be.