Bolsonaro intends to run for Brazilian presidency in 2026, citing confidence in winning

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who led the country from 2019 to 2023, has declared his intention to run for the presidency in the upcoming 2026 elections.

This announcement came during an interview with the Brazilian news outlet Metrópoles, where Bolsonaro expressed confidence in his chances of victory, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

"If I can run for president, I will win, I am sure of it," Bolsonaro stated. However, he noted that he first needs to regain his voting rights, implying legal or regulatory hurdles that must be overcome before he can officially launch his campaign.

Bolsonaro also highlighted a perceived dissatisfaction among the Brazilian populace with the current administration under President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. He claimed to sense a "strong rejection" of Lula's policies during his interactions with citizens across the country.

Bolsonaro's presidency was marked by a controversial approach to governance, particularly concerning environmental policies, management of the COVID-19 pandemic, and his confrontational style. His tenure also saw significant political polarization in Brazil. After losing the 2022 election to Lula da Silva, Bolsonaro has remained an influential figure in Brazilian politics, often vocal in his criticism of Lula's administration.

The 2026 election is anticipated to be a pivotal moment for Brazil, with key issues such as economic management, environmental policy, and social welfare likely to dominate the campaign agenda. Bolsonaro's potential return to the political arena sets the stage for a highly contested race, as the country grapples with the legacies of his and Lula's leadership.