25 Oct 2024 | 12:19 AM UTC
Brazil: Heightened security likely in multiple cities ahead of second round of municipal elections Oct. 27 /update 1
Heightened security, rallies are likely in parts of Brazil in the lead-up to and during the second round of municipal elections Oct. 27.
Authorities will likely deploy heightened security in multiple cities before and during the second round of municipal elections planned for Oct. 27. In total, 51 cities, including Sao Paulo and 14 other state capitals, will participate in the second round; the full list can be found here. Voting will occur 07:00-16:00 or 08:00-17:00, depending on the municipality. Tight security is especially probable around campaign events and election-related facilities. Rallies will likely occur at campaign headquarters and major central squares following the release of election results late Oct. 27.
Road closures are probable, particularly near polling stations, and may disrupt transport and business operations. Clashes between supporters of rival political groups are possible before, during, and after the vote, particularly in major cities with contentious elections, including Sao Paulo.
Exercise caution in the lead-up to and during voting, particularly near large gatherings and in the proximity of polling stations. Make allowances for possible localized transport disruptions near said stations. Avoid demonstrations as a precaution. Heed the instructions of security personnel.
A second round will occur in cities with 200,000 or more voters where no candidate obtained 50 percent of the vote in the first round.
The elections will measure the popularity of incumbent President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva, his Worker's Party (Partido dos Trabalhadores, PT), and the left-wing and center-left organizations that support his administration. They will also test the influence still maintained by former President Jair Bolsonaro.
