Lula: “Democracy has won, and we're still here”
“Today is the day to say loud and clear: we are still here. We are here to declare that we are alive and that democracy is alive, defying the plans of the coup plotters on January 8, 2023.” With these words, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva opened his speech at a ceremony at the Planalto presidential palace on Wednesday (Jan. 8), marking two years since the failed coup attempt.
The opening sentence references the film Ainda Estou Aqui (I'm Still Here), directed by Walter Salles and starring Golden Globe winner Fernanda Torres. The film depicts Eunice Paiva's journey during Brazil's military dictatorship, following the arrest and murder of her husband, Rubens Paiva, by the regime. The ceremony at the Planalto palace was attended by ministers, parliamentarians, governors, and representatives from all three branches of government, as well as the commanders of the Armed Forces, whom the president specifically thanked for their participation.
“We're here to remind you that if we're here, it's because democracy prevailed. Otherwise, many of us might have been imprisoned, exiled, or killed, as happened in the past. And we will not allow that to happen again,” Lula added.
After the ceremony, Lula and other authorities descended the palace ramp to participate in an event at the Three Powers Square. Known as the "Embrace of Democracy," the gathering was attended by members of the public and representatives of social movements.
“Work in progress”
Continuing his speech in defense of democracy, Lula described it as a “work in progress” that must extend beyond rhetoric to become a reality for everyone.
“Democracy for the few is not true democracy. That is why democracy will always be a work in progress. It will only be complete when every Brazilian, without exception, has access to quality food, healthcare, education, security, culture, and leisure,” he said.
Lula went on to emphasize the need to build a fairer country, particularly for the oppressed social minorities in Brazil.
“Democracy will be complete when everyone is truly equal before the law, and black individuals are no longer the targets of state violence. When indigenous peoples have the right to their lands, cultures, and beliefs. When women achieve equal rights and the freedom to be wherever they choose, without being judged, attacked, or murdered,” he stated.
Investigation and punishment
Regarding the attempted coup and investigations into a plot to assassinate him, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, President Lula once again called for accountability while emphasizing the importance of the right to a fair defense.
“Those responsible for the events of January 8 are being investigated and held accountable. No one has been or will be unjustly imprisoned. Everyone will face consequences for the crimes they committed, including those behind the plots to assassinate the president, vice president, and the head of the Superior Electoral Court,” he added.
