Brazil Braces for Verdict on Ex-President & Democracy
Okay, here’s a breakdown of the key details from the provided text, focusing on the connections between Bolsonaro, Trump, and the rise of Pentecostalism in Brazil, and also the documentary “Apocalypse in the tropics”:
1. Bolsonaro & Trump’s Relationship:
Frequent Meetings: The Bolsonaro family and the Trumps have met numerous times. A notable instance involved a dinner at Mar-a-Lago where many in Bolsonaro’s entourage contracted COVID-19. Bolsonaro himself later contracted the virus.
Shared Trajectories: Even after Bolsonaro left office, their paths remain linked. Trump is moving towards a more militarized US, while Bolsonaro idealizes brazil’s past military dictatorship.
Support for Military Rule: bolsonaro has openly expressed admiration for the brutal military dictatorship that ruled Brazil (1964-1985), stating the only mistake was “not to kill” enough people. He had support from the military during his attempted coup.
2. The Rise of Pentecostalism & Silas Malafaia:
Growing Influence: Christianity, particularly Pentecostalism, is a important and growing political force in Brazil (over 30% of the population, up from 13% a decade ago).
Silas Malafaia: A 66-year-old pastor who is described as Bolsonaro’s “spiritual kingmaker.” He’s a key figure in the rise of this religious influence.
Combining Religion & Politics: Malafaia and Bolsonaro have actively worked to combine spiritual influence with populist politics. Malafaia rails against “cultural Marxism” and “political correctness,” and calls for the removal of the left.
Bolsonaro’s Promises: Bolsonaro, influenced by this alliance, made promises like arming citizens and diminishing rights for Indigenous people.3. “Apocalypse in the Tropics” Documentary:
Filmmaker: Petra Costa (also known for “The Edge of Democracy”). Focus: The documentary explores the wave of Pentecostalism reshaping Brazil and the relationship between Bolsonaro and Silas Malafaia.
Key Findings/Observations:
Costa suggests Malafaia may have even written some of Bolsonaro’s more extreme speeches (specifically a 2021 speech vowing “victory, prison, or death”).
The film shows a close relationship between the two men, including Malafaia officiating Bolsonaro’s wedding and being present after an assassination attempt.
Malafaia justifies his political involvement using Biblical parables, sometimes in a contradictory or hypocritical manner (e.g., excusing road rage with a reference to Jesus).
4. Current Situation:
Inquiry of Malafaia: Malafaia is currently under investigation after messages on Bolsonaro’s phone revealed he was advising the former president on legal matters.
In essence,the article paints a picture of a risky convergence of right-wing populism,religious extremism,and a nostalgic longing for authoritarianism in both Brazil and the United States,with Bolsonaro and Trump as central figures and Silas Malafaia as a key influencer in Brazil.