Brazil's president Jair Bolsonaro speaks after participating in a bikers rally in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on June 12 2021.Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro, speaking to a rally of bikers on Saturday, said he could count on police officers “whatever happens,” as he once again sought to court cops amid stark political politicisation ahead of next year's election.
“You are auxiliary to the Armed Forces. I'm sure that, in compliance with law and order, by complying with constitutional provisions, we will be together, whatever happens,” Bolsonaro said. Bolsonaro's critics worry that his efforts to curry favour with Brazil's police, among the world's most violent, could pose democratic risks ahead of next year's combustible presidential vote.
During Saturday's event, Bolsonaro was embraced by some police officers providing security at the motorcycle tour, while some others took pictures with him.