Lula Marks Jan. 8 Anniversary, Praises STF Trials and Vetoes Bill to Ease Sentences

Overview

• Speaking at the Planalto Palace, Lula called the attackers "enemies of democracy" and argued that predictions of decline will "lose again."
• He vetoed in full PL 2,162/2023, which would have reduced penalties for those convicted over the January 8 events.
• Lula lauded the Supreme Federal Court's handling of the cases as transparent and impartial, saying defendants had full defense rights.
• He said convictions were based on robust evidence, contrasting them with past "PowerPoint"-style accusations associated with Lava Jato.
• The speech carried an electoral tone, with Estadão reporting he is expected to seek re-election with Senator Flávio Bolsonaro viewed as a principal rival.