Lula sworn in as Brazil president as predecessor Bolsonaro flies to US

lula sworn in

Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has been sworn in as the new president of Brazil – the third time he has held the country’s highest office. The veteran left-wing politician, known widely as Lula, also led the country between 2003 and 2010 – and defeated Jair Bolsonaro in October’s poll. In his first speech, Lula vowed to rebuild a country in “terrible ruins”. He decried the policies of his predecessor, who went to the US on Friday to avoid the handover ceremony. A sea of Lula supporters gathered in front of Congress since early in the morning – decked out in the red colour of his Workers’ Party. They travelled to see their leader sworn in – but also for a celebration. More than 60 artists – including Samba legend Martinho da Vila – were booked to perform on two giant stages decorated in the national flag as part of a music festival dubbed “Lulapalooza”. “Love has won over hate,” read one banner carried by a man dressed as Lula – complete with a presidential sash.(BBC)…[+]