Former Brazilian President Lula, Vaccinated, Repeatedly Criticizes Bolsonaro

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] Former Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva, whose conviction on corruption charges was annulled, increasing the possibility of his return to politics, repeatedly criticized President Jair Bolsonaro.

According to Brazilian media on the 13th (local time), former President Lula received his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine near S?o Paulo city and told President Bolsonaro to "stop acting foolishly."

Former President Lula stated, "President Bolsonaro and Health Minister Eduardo Pazuello need to learn how to respect the hearts of the Brazilian people and ensure vaccination for all citizens."

Brazil's vaccination campaign began on January 17, but as of the previous day, only 9,539,078 people, equivalent to 4.5% of the total population, have been vaccinated.

President Bolsonaro, who has been criticized for denying the severity of COVID-19 and failing in the initial response, showed little enthusiasm for securing vaccines. However, as deaths and confirmed cases surged and his approval rating plummeted, he belatedly announced plans to focus on expanding vaccination efforts.

Lula, who is 75 years old this year, received the 'CoronaVac' vaccine from the Chinese pharmaceutical company Sinovac on this day and plans to receive the second dose in 2 to 3 weeks.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.