Public Note #32 – On the coup attempts by Mr. President of the Republic

It is clear to everyone that the President of the Republic, Jair Messias Bolsonaro, is plotting a coup, whose latest label is “state of siege”, perpetuating chaos in Brazil and leaving the people at the mercy of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In view of the above, we, members of the Arns Commission, want to express our deep indignation at the irresponsibility of the President of the Republic in the dismal management of the pandemic – which has already accounted for approximately 325 thousand deaths since its onset –, as well as the serious social crisis that his mismanagement is causing.

Regarding the political problem, due to the several acts and words from Mr. President seeking a coup, we want to express our firm repudiation. At the same time, we express our solidarity with the citizens of this country, civil society, and Brazilian institutions, which have vigorously confronted and resisted these attacks against democracy.

Among these institutions, we highlight the Federal Supreme Court – our greatest safeguard –, the National Congress, the various political parties, the state and municipal governments, as well as the Armed Forces, which are rejecting the president's attempts of associating them with his undemocratic power-seeking behavior.

The coup is being attempted, but no one strikes alone.

Photo: Arquivo Nacional