12 Apr 2019 | 03:57 AM UTC
Brazil: Lula supporters march in Camaçari April 11 /update 1
Supporters of imprisoned former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva launch protest movement from April 10-17; protesters march in Camaçari April 11
Event
A new series of protests in support of jailed former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (Lula) was launched in Brazil on Wednesday, April 10. The demonstrations are expected to continue through Wednesday, April 17, including a protest march through the city of Camaçari (Bahia state). On Thursday, April 11, over 1000 people began marching from Cascalheiras in Camaçari down the BA-531 highway. Daily protests are expected to take place in the city and other parts of Bahia state until April 17. Associated demonstrations are also possible throughout Brazil. Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are anticipated around all protest sites.
Context
Nationwide rallies in support of Lula were held from April 5-7 to mark the anniversary of his imprisonment. Lula was president from 2003 to 2011 and, as the country's first working-class ruler, was and remains a popular figure among much of the population. Lula was convicted on corruption charges in July 2017, and again in January 2018, and sentenced to 12 years in prison.
Advice
Individuals in Bahia state, and Brazil more generally, are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and anticipate a heightened security presence and localized disruptions.
