Presidential election campaigning begins in Brazil

Official campaigning began in Brazil on Sunday for its presidential election to be held in October.

Candidates include left-wing incumbent Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and right-wing senator Flavio Bolsonaro, the eldest son of former president Jair Bolsonaro. These two are seen as the leading contenders.

Lula gave a speech on Sunday. He pledged to take further steps to diminish disparities, including measures to address poverty. Lula vowed that the right wing will not govern Brazil as long as he is alive.

Bolsonaro is calling for a change of government. He accused Lula of failing to meet people’s expectations, asserting that he himself is the only candidate that can restore Brazil’s credibility in the world.

The election comes as many pro-US right-wingers or centrists have come to power in Latin America, amid increased pressure by US President Donald Trump’s administration on leftist governments.

The latest opinion poll shows Lula leading Bolsonaro by 7 percentage points.

A supporter of Lula said the president is able to help people from all social classes.

A person supporting Bolsonaro said he expected public safety to improve under the current government but that has not happened.

Brazil’s presidential election is held every four years as the incumbent’s term expires.

The first vote is due to take place on October 4. If no candidate wins a majority of votes, the top two will compete in a runoff.