'Brazil is no one's backyard': Re-elected Brazilian president Lula da Silva

Re-elected President of Brazil Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on Monday affirmed that the country is not a backyard to anyone, adding that the new government will change the administration system and make people participate more in decision-making process.

He doubled down on his commitment to Brazil’s sovereignty. "Either the homeland remains free, or we die for Brazil," he said. “This country will not accept being anyone’s backyard.”

"We will change the way we run this country, we will make people participate more in decision-making process," Lula said in his victory speech.

Also read: Trump critic Lula wins reelection in Brazil, securing fourth presidential term

Lula da Silva, a vocal critic of US President Donald Trump, was reelected Sunday in a result that provides relief to critics of widening US influence in Latin America. Brazil’s electoral court announced that the soon to be 81-year-old Lula had a lead of nearly 4.4 million votes, 51.8% of the total vote, over opponent Flávio Bolsonaro.

The re-elected president said he had two months ahead to discuss the government, adding that he wants to meet with business leaders.

In his victory speech, Lula vowed to regulate social media after accusing Meta of 'interference' in Brazil poll.

While addressing supporters, he expressed his gratitude to the Brazilian people, and pledged to respect all Brazilians, regardless of gender or religion. He also attacked Bolsonaro. “

"This was a defeat for denialism and lies. I must confess that every time I attended a debate, I felt embarrassed,” he said.

"We managed to convince people that voting was extremely important to safeguard democracy in Brazil. We defeated foreign intervention through digital platforms," he added.

Lula, who first governed Brazil between 2003 and 2010, has faced a tough reelection battle in 2026 because of concerns about the cost of living and security.