Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said no social programs would be discontinued during his fourth term, which begins in 2027. In a video posted on social media on Sunday, he denied rumors that benefits including Bolsa Família and Gás do Povo would be ended or reduced.
Lula said the government could introduce new programs or improve existing ones, and accused political opponents of spreading false information. The video marked his return to public communication after a week of voice problems. He said his health was good and his voice had improved.
False claims circulating online since Lula’s election victory also suggested that the government would back away from ending the 6x1 work schedule. The government’s Communications Secretariat had already said the social programs remained in operation, with no suspended payments or reduced benefits. It also said the constitutional amendment ending the 6x1 schedule remained unchanged. Lula announced no new measures in his video.
The president said the commitments made during his campaign would be carried out and thanked voters, adding that he planned to travel to Brazil’s states to thank them in person. Lula was re-elected with 51.79% of valid votes, defeating Flávio Bolsonaro, who received 48.21%.
The next administration’s economic direction has drawn attention from market participants, including speculation over who will lead the Finance Ministry and concern about public spending and debt. Rafael Fonteles, the re-elected governor of Piauí and a potential contender for the post, said Lula would pursue social gains while maintaining fiscal responsibility. He added that the president would announce economic measures for the new term at the appropriate time.
Sources: Folha Mercado.