‘Congratulations!’: World leaders hail Lula’s election victory in Brazil

South African relations strategist and lecturer, Redi Tlhabi, expressed deep shock upon learning of Lula da Silva's historic fourth-term victory in Brazil's presidential election. Tlhabi feared Brazil's loss of an influential advocate for the climate crisis and multilateralism, as well as a vital ally for South Africa and the Global South.

With 51.75% of the vote, Lula's victory brings relief, not only for Brazil but also for South Africa, Africa, and the Global South, where workers, the poor, and countries outside the global power centers continue to demand a meaningful say in their own governance.

Lula's win signifies a significant defeat for the international right and its ambitions to make its rise appear inevitable. However, it does not erase the movement, but it demonstrates that it can be beaten. The result reinforces the importance of a government that acknowledges the need for collective political action to address issues such as hunger, inequality, climate breakdown, and war.

The international implications of Lula's victory are not imaginary, as evidenced by Donald Trump's support for Jair Bolsonaro and his administration's efforts to advance the Bolsonaro family's political interests. Elon Musk's interference in Brazilian politics further complicates the situation, making it difficult to maintain the idea of a platform owner remaining politically neutral.

Concentrated power in the hands of commercial interests and powerful individuals raises questions about transparency and safeguards for elections.

For South Africans, the stakes are high, as sovereignty cannot exist if a country can elect its government but cannot hold powerful foreign corporations accountable within its borders. Lula's insistence on Brazil's sovereignty and his condemnation of external interference have been crucial in demanding that developing countries help shape the rules governing finance, trade, development, and international security.

While BRICS members have different interests and political systems, Lula's continued presence strengthens the possibility of a more representative and accountable world. The task now is to make this vision a reality, ensuring that the Global South has a stronger voice in shaping international rules and policies.