Politics

Brazil’s House Speaker shows true colors at Bolsonaro convention

Despite promising neutrality when taking office, House Speaker Arthur Lira is unashamedly backing President Bolsonaro for this year's election — and has been a crucial ally to the government

Brazil’s House Speaker Arthur Lira
Brazil’s House Speaker Arthur Lira, wearing a ‘Bolsonaro 22’ polo shirt at the right of the photo, claps as the president kisses the first lady. Photo: Eduardo Anizelli/ Folhapress

As the Liberal Party officially confirmed President Jair Bolsonaro’s candidacy for this year’s election during its convention on Sunday, there was one attendee who appeared particularly keen on enjoying a photo opportunity alongside the head of state.

Standing beside the president’s family and allies — and wearing a blue “Bolsonaro 22” polo shirt — was House Speaker Arthur Lira, who upon taking office as the head of the lower house of Congress in early 2021 had promised to remain neutral in Brazil’s political disputes. He has done no such thing, and Sunday’s appearance finally provided material evidence of where his allegiances lie.

Sharing the stage with Mr. Lira was Congressman Daniel Silveira, who quite literally owed his presence at the event in Rio de Janeiro to the House Speaker and President Bolsonaro.

Over a year ago, the House Ethics Committee approved two motions to suspend Mr. Silveira’s term in office for a total of eight months: one for recording a party meeting without authorization, and another for violently threatening...

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