Brazil’s Lula announces higher welfare payments and free weight-loss jabs ahead of election
Summary
Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva announced a 15% rise in the main cash payment program for poor families and free weight-loss vaccines shortly before the presidential election. His opponent, Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, criticized the timing, saying it aimed to win votes, but experts note the increase is an inflation adjustment and legally allowed.Key Facts
- Lula will increase the monthly payment from about £98 to £113 starting 19 October.
- The payment program, Bolsa Família, helps poor families and covers about 50 million people.
- Lula said the increase adjusts for inflation to protect vulnerable people’s buying power.
- Flávio Bolsonaro, his election opponent, called it a desperate move to buy votes.
- The election runoff is planned for 25 October, two weeks after the increase takes effect.
- Lula also promised free weight-loss vaccines through the public health system.
- Similar increases were made by Jair Bolsonaro before the 2022 election, sparking debate on intent.
- Experts say such inflation adjustments are not against election laws but political motives are expected.
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