During a walk through downtown Fortaleza, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva received and raised an image of Our Lady of Aparecida among supporters. The gesture took place on Tuesday, the 29th, at a campaign event alongside Governor Elmano de Freitas.
Speech at Praça do Ferreira
On the stage, Lula rebutted rumors that the title of patroness of Brazil could be taken from the saint. He highlighted his commitment to maintaining the tradition while in office and emphasized respect for Catholics, Evangelicals, Afro-Brazilian religions and atheists.
"As long as I am president of the Republic, Our Lady of Aparecida will be the patroness of Brazil", he stated.
Route and Allies Present
The head of the Executive arrived at Praça da Bandeira in an open vehicle, accompanied by Elmano de Freitas, Senator Camilo Santana and Senate candidates Luizianne Lins and Cid Gomes. Also present were Vice-Mayor Gabriella Aguiar and Mayor Evandro Leitão.
Lula also waved a national flag handed to him by locals during the route. This is the president’s third visit to Ceará in the current electoral campaign.
Political Context
The statement comes amid discussions on religious issues in the final stretch of the 2026 elections, following rumors involving candidate Flávio Bolsonaro. The PT member sought to reassure the state’s traditional Catholic base.