Bolsonaro Promises Constitutional Reforms Ahead of Runoff
Brazilian presidential candidate Flavio Bolsonaro outlines plans for judicial and political reforms ahead of October 25 runoff.
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Brazilian conservative senator and presidential candidate Flavio Bolsonaro has announced plans to implement constitutional reforms if elected president, aiming to ‘re-democratize’ the country. Bolsonaro, a frontrunner in the presidential runoff election on October 25, emphasized that the proposed changes would not undermine Brazil’s democracy but instead focus on modernizing the nation’s judicial and tribunal systems.
Bolsonaro first outlined his constitutional reform proposals during a campaign event in Goiânia, Goiás, where he stated that the conservative party already holds a majority in the Senate and Chamber of Deputies, enabling the passage of necessary amendments. He later clarified that the reforms would target the Supreme Federal Tribunal (STF) and potentially include measures to limit presidential reelection.
‘Do you think Brazil is a full-fledged democracy? No. We have to respect politics; there are several PECs [proposed constitutional amendments] that are possible,’ Bolsonaro said, according to Globonews. He also mentioned the need for judicial reform, including lowering the age of criminal responsibility and addressing aspects of tax reform through constitutional amendments.
Bolsonaro expressed his support for eliminating presidential reelection in Brazil, stating that if elected, he would only serve one term and would not seek re-election. ‘I’m not running for power. I’m fighting for the future of my country,’ he added, emphasizing his commitment to political reform.
Proposed Amendments to the Constitution (PECs) in Brazil require approval by at least three-fifths of both the Lower House and Senate. While the Liberal Party (PL), led by Bolsonaro, will hold a right-wing majority in the Senate, it will fall short of the required majority in the Lower House, prompting collaboration with centrist lawmakers.
Bolsonaro also addressed criticisms of his earlier statements, acknowledging that some have suggested he would pursue reforms similar to those of his father, former President Jair Bolsonaro. However, he insisted that the focus remains on restoring democracy and addressing the country’s pressing issues.
Bolsonaro’s proposals align with ongoing discussions in the Brazilian Congress, including the potential lowering of the age of criminal responsibility from 18 to 16, a measure that would require a constitutional amendment. His commitment to judicial and political reform underscores the significant changes he envisions for Brazil if he secures the presidency.
Source: Breitbart
