Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva won Brazil’s election after defeating incumbent Jair Bolsonaro in a closely-fought second-round vote.
Lula, a former union leader who was previously president between 2003 and 2010, secured 50.8 percent of the vote in Sunday’s election compared with 49.2 percent for Bolsonaro.
The 77-year-old tweeted a photo of his hand touching the Brazilian flag with the word “democracy” written. Lula’s inauguration will take place on January 1.
The President-elect said he considers himself a candidate “who had a process of resurrection in Brazilian politics, because they tried to bury me alive and I am here.”
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“I am here to govern this country in a very difficult situation, but I have faith in God that, with the help of the people, we are going to find a way out so that this country can live democratically, harmoniously, and we can restore peace between families, between those who diverse, so that we can build the world we need,” Lula said.
Politicians from around the world congratulated Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on his win.
“Congratulations @LulaOficial! Your victory opens a new era for the history of Latin America. A time of hope that begins today. Here you have a partner with whom you can work to create a better life for all our peoples,” Argentina President Alberto Fernandez said.
Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador: “Lula won. The people of Brazil are blessed. There will be equality and humanity.”
US President Joe Biden: “I send my congratulations to Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on his election to be the next president of Brazil following free, fair, and credible elections. I look forward to working together to continue the cooperation between our two countries in the months and years ahead.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau: “The people of Brazil have spoken. I’m looking forward to working with @LulaOficial to strengthen the partnership between our countries, to deliver results for Canadians and Brazilians, and to advance shared priorities — like protecting the environment. Congratulations, Lula!”
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French President Emmanuel Macron: “Congratulations @LulaOficial, on your election which opens a new page in the history of Brazil. Together we will join forces to address the many common challenges [we face] and renew the bond of friendship between our two countries.”
European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell Fontelles said, “Brazilian citizens went to the polls to elect their new president in a peaceful and well-organised election.
