RIOTS IN BRASÍLIA

On Monday, 12 December, protesters promoted acts of vandalism and clashed with the military police (PM) and the federal police (PF) in Brazil’s capital, Brasília. The acts were carried out by supporters of President Jair Bolsonaro, in the central region of the capital.

According to the Fire Department of the Federal District (DF), three cars and five buses were burned during acts of vandalism that took place at night. A 67-year-old person was sent to a hospital after breathing tear gas.

The acts of vandalism began in front of the PF, in Asa Norte, at around 19:00, after the arrest José Acácio Tserere Xavante, an Indigenous who supports Bolsonaro. The Prosecutor General of the Republic (PGR) and the Federal Supreme Court (STF) claim that Tserere is investigated for participating in anti-democratic acts and gathering people to commit crimes.

In response to the arrest, his colleagues tried to invade the PF’s building and attacked the 5^th Police Station, in Asa Norte. Military police officers clashed with the group, which placed gas cylinders on roads near the site.

The Aftermath

This Tuesday morning (13), the Esplanada dos Ministérios was closed to vehicle traffic by authorities. There are also blockades in Praça dos Três Poderes and in the vicinity of the Setor Hoteleiro Norte and the headquarters of the Federal Police.

As a security measure, the buses were delayed by about an hour to leave the garages this morning. This caused problems to people using public transport.

The Post-Elections Protests

The acts that took place on Monday (12/12) are connected to a series of protests that started on 31 October, after the election of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for the country’s Presidency.

These actions are promoted by groups that support current President Jair Bolsonaro and do not accept his defeat for Lula. They claim that the election was rigged and want do not want Lula to take office. For that, they have been requesting the Armed Forces’ help, and a military coup.

Since this incident is part of a long-lasting series of protests, it is likely that similar events occur again, as the new president’s inauguration date approaches. In case of any trip to Brasília, people must follow the recommendations below.

Recommendations

• While in Brasília, people must reduce displacements as much as possible
• Avoid areas near the rally zones and the streets used by the participants to reach their gathering point
• In Brasília, areas near buildings belonging to the Federal administration are critical, particularly: the Palácio do Planalto (Presidential Palace), the Esplanada dos Ministérios, the Superior Electoral Court (TSE), the Congress, the Federal Supreme Court (STF), and the Army HQ
• Anticipate traffic disruptions close to rally locations and plan additional time for long and short trips
• Do not engage in political debates, or mention any opinion about the topic
• Avoid wearing red shirts or the Brazilian jersey, as they might be interpreted as an indication of political affiliation
• In addition to the Tserere’s arrest, Monday (12/11) was a critical day politically. It was when the Superior Electoral Court (TSE) officially recognized the victory of Lula’s ticket, by giving the future President and his vice, Geraldo Alckmin, certificates. Events like these can further incite radical groups to act violently. 1 January is likely the most critical day. This is the day when Lula is expected to take office

We will keep monitoring the event for any security incidents that may appear.