AP

Brazil’s Lula sworn in, vows accountability and rebuilding

Dec 31, 2022, 7:04 AM | Updated: Jan 1, 2023, 10:16 pm

Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the...

Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)

(AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)


              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva celebrate his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, waves to supporters beside his wife Rosangela Silva after he was sworn in as new president at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva wipes his face after he was sworn in as new president at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Supporters wave as Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva arrives on an open car to the Planalto Palace after he was sworn in as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Firefighters spray water over supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathering to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Firefighters spray water over supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathering to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva wait to see him riding in an open car to Congress for his swearing-in ceremony in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A man carries a flag reading in Portuguese "Bolsonaro Out¨ prior to the inauguration of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva celebrates his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathering to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters wave as Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva arrives on an open car to the Planalto Palace after he was sworn in as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Firefighters spray water over supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathering to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a sign reading in Portuguese ¨The Father Returned¨ prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a banner during his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, right, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, left, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, center, ride on an open car to the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023.(AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva stands next to Indigenous leader Cacique Raoni at the Planalto Palace after he was sworn in as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva arrives to the Planalto Palace with a group representing diverse segments of society after he was sworn in as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva celebrate his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, waves to supporters beside his wife Rosangela Silva after he was sworn in as new president at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva wipes his face after he was sworn in as new president at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Supporters wave as Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva arrives on an open car to the Planalto Palace after he was sworn in as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Firefighters spray water over supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathering to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Firefighters spray water over supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathering to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva wait to see him riding in an open car to Congress for his swearing-in ceremony in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A man carries a flag reading in Portuguese "Bolsonaro Out¨ prior to the inauguration of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva celebrates his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathering to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters wave as Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva arrives on an open car to the Planalto Palace after he was sworn in as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Firefighters spray water over supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathering to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a sign reading in Portuguese ¨The Father Returned¨ prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a banner during his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, right, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, left, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, center, ride on an open car to the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023.(AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva stands next to Indigenous leader Cacique Raoni at the Planalto Palace after he was sworn in as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva arrives to the Planalto Palace with a group representing diverse segments of society after he was sworn in as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva celebrate his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, waves to supporters beside his wife Rosangela Silva after he was sworn in as new president at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva wipes his face after he was sworn in as new president at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Supporters wave as Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva arrives on an open car to the Planalto Palace after he was sworn in as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Firefighters spray water over supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathering to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Firefighters spray water over supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathering to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva wait to see him riding in an open car to Congress for his swearing-in ceremony in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A man carries a flag reading in Portuguese "Bolsonaro Out¨ prior to the inauguration of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva celebrates his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathering to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters wave as Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva arrives on an open car to the Planalto Palace after he was sworn in as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Firefighters spray water over supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathering to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a sign reading in Portuguese ¨The Father Returned¨ prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a banner during his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, right, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, left, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, center, ride on an open car to the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023.(AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva stands next to Indigenous leader Cacique Raoni at the Planalto Palace after he was sworn in as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva arrives to the Planalto Palace with a group representing diverse segments of society after he was sworn in as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, center right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathering to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, center right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva celebrate his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva celebrates his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva waves from an open car on his way to Congress for his swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva react as he passes on an open car to Congress for his swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              A man carries a flag reading in Portuguese "Bolsonaro Out¨ prior to the inauguration of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a sign reading in Portuguese ¨The Father Returned¨ prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters display an inflatable of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in front of the dome of the of the Cathedral in Brasilia, Brazil, prior to his inauguration as new president on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva flashes a victory sign prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a banner during his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, center right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathering to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, center right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva celebrate his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva celebrates his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva waves from an open car on his way to Congress for his swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva react as he passes on an open car to Congress for his swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              A man carries a flag reading in Portuguese "Bolsonaro Out¨ prior to the inauguration of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a sign reading in Portuguese ¨The Father Returned¨ prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters display an inflatable of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in front of the dome of the of the Cathedral in Brasilia, Brazil, prior to his inauguration as new president on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva flashes a victory sign prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a banner during his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, center right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gathering to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, center right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva celebrate his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva celebrates his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva waves from an open car on his way to Congress for his swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva react as he passes on an open car to Congress for his swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              A man carries a flag reading in Portuguese "Bolsonaro Out¨ prior to the inauguration of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a sign reading in Portuguese ¨The Father Returned¨ prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters display an inflatable of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in front of the dome of the of the Cathedral in Brasilia, Brazil, prior to his inauguration as new president on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva flashes a victory sign prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a banner during his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, left, his wife Rosangela Silva, second from left, Vice President-elect Geraldo Alckmin, right, and his wife Maria Lucia Ribeiro, ride on an open car to Congress for their swearing-in ceremony, in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)
            
              A man carries a flag reading in Portuguese "Bolsonaro Out¨ prior to the inauguration of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a sign reading in Portuguese ¨The Father Returned¨ prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters display an inflatable of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in front of the dome of the of the Cathedral in Brasilia, Brazil, prior to his inauguration as new president on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva flashes a victory sign prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A man carries a flag reading in Portuguese "Bolsonaro Out¨ prior to the inauguration of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a sign reading in Portuguese ¨The Father Returned¨ prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters display an inflatable of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in front of the dome of the of the Cathedral in Brasilia, Brazil, prior to his inauguration as new president on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva flashes a victory sign prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A man carries a flag reading in Portuguese "Bolsonaro Out¨ prior to the inauguration of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a sign reading in Portuguese ¨The Father Returned¨ prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters display an inflatable of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in front of the dome of the of the Cathedral in Brasilia, Brazil, prior to his inauguration as new president on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva flashes a victory sign prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A man carries a flag reading in Portuguese "Bolsonaro Out¨ prior to the inauguration of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporter of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva displays a sign reading in Portuguese ¨The Father Returned¨ prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters display an inflatable of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in front of the dome of the of the Cathedral in Brasilia, Brazil, prior to his inauguration as new president on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              A supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva flashes a victory sign prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              A supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva flashes a victory sign prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              A supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva flashes a victory sign prior to his inauguration as new president in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration as new president outside the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Supporters of President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gather to attend his inauguration along the central avenue in Brasilia, Brazil, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023. (AP Photo/Gustavo Moreno)
            
              Shortly after supporters of outgoing President Jair Bolsonaro ended their vigil outside the official residence Alvorada Palace, supporters of incoming President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva arrived on the grounds, posing for photos flashing the "L" finger gesture for Lula, in Brasilia, Brazil, Friday, Dec. 30, 2022. Lula will be sworn-in on Jan. 1, 2023 as the country's new leader. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Supporters of outgoing President Jair Bolsonaro watch his live farewell on a cell phone outside the official residence Alvorada Palace, in Brasilia, Brazil, Friday, Dec. 30, 2022. For months, Bolsonaro had sown doubts about the reliability of Brazil’s electronic vote and his loyal supporters refused to accept the loss. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              FILE - Supporters of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro clash with police setting fire to several vehicles and allegedly trying to storm the headquarters of the Federal Police in Brasilia, Brazil, Dec. 12, 2022. Since Bolsonaro lost re-election to Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on Oct. 30, his supporters have gathered across the country refusing to concede defeat and asking for the armed forces to intervene. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              FILE - Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro looks on after speaking from his official residence the Alvorada Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, Nov. 1, 2022. His absence on Inauguration Day will mark a break with tradition and remains unclear who, instead of him, will hand over the presidential sash to Brazilian President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva at the presidential palace on Jan. 1, 2023.  (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres, File)
            
              FILE - A supporter of President Jair Bolsonaro holds a Brazilian national flag during a protest against his defeat in the presidential runoff election, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Nov. 2, 2022. Thousands of supporters called on the military to keep the far-right leader in power, even as his administration signaled a willingness to hand over the reins to his rival Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. (AP Photo/Bruna Prado, File)
            
              FILE - Supporters of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro stand behind a banner that reads in Portuguese; "We, the people, elect the Armed Forces as a moderating power", in a protest against Bolsonaro's run-off election loss, outside Army headquarters in Brasilia, Brazil, Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2022. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres, File)
            
              Leonam Costa places a replica of the presidential sash on a puppet of Brazilian President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, in a camp of supporters of the president-elect, in Brasilia, Brazil, Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022. Lula defeated far-right President Jair Bolsonaro in the Oct. 30 run-off vote by less than 2 percentage points. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)
            
              Souvenir inaugural pins with the image of Brazilian President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva are displayed for sale in Brasilia, Brazil, Dec. 31, 2022, at the Esplanade of Ministries where his inauguration ceremony will take place on Jan. 1, 2023, as the country's new leader. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres, File)
            
              FILE - Brazilian President-elect Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva smiles during his election certification ceremony at the Supreme Electoral Court in Brasilia, Brazil, Monday, Dec. 12, 2022. Lula will be sworn on Jan. 1, 2023 in the capital of Brasilia and assume office for the third time. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres, File)

BRASILIA, Brazil (AP) — Brazil’s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was sworn in as president on Sunday, and in his first address expressed optimism about plans to rebuild while pledging that members of outgoing Jair Bolsonaro’s administration will be held to account.

Lula is assuming office for the third time after thwarting far-right incumbent Bolsonaro’s reelection bid. His return to power marks the culmination of a political comeback that is thrilling supporters and enraging opponents in a fiercely polarized nation.

“Our message to Brazil is one of hope and reconstruction,” Lula said in a speech in Congress’ Lower House after signing the document that formally instates him as president. “The great edifice of rights, sovereignty and development that this nation built has been systematically demolished in recent years. To re-erect this edifice, we are going to direct all our efforts.”

Sunday afternoon in Brasilia’s main esplanade, the party was on. Tens of thousands of supporters decked out in the red of Lula’s Workers’ Party cheered after his swearing in.

They celebrated when the president said he would send a report about the prior administration to all lawmakers and judicial authorities, revoke Bolsonaro’s “criminal decrees” that loosened gun control, and hold the prior administration responsible for its denialism in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We do not carry any spirit of revenge against those who sought to subjugate the nation to their personal and ideological designs, but we are going to ensure the rule of law,” Lula said, without mentioning Bolsonaro by name. “Those who erred will answer for their errors, with broad rights to their defense within the due legal process.”

Lula’s presidency is unlikely to be like his previous two mandates, coming after the tightest presidential race in more than three decades in Brazil and resistance to his taking office by some of his opponents, political analysts say.

The leftist defeated Bolsonaro in the Oct. 30 vote by less than 2 percentage points. For months, Bolsonaro had sown doubts about the reliability of Brazil’s electronic vote and his loyal supporters were loath to accept the loss.

Many have gathered outside military barracks since, questioning results and pleading with the armed forces to prevent Lula from taking office.

His most die-hard backers resorted to what some authorities and incoming members of Lula’s administration labeled acts of “terrorism” – which had prompted security concerns about inauguration day events.

Lula will have to navigate more challenging economic conditions than he enjoyed in his first two terms, when the global commodities boom proved a windfall for Brazil.

At the time, his administration’s flagship welfare program helped lift tens of millions of impoverished people into the middle class. He left office with a personal approval rating of 83%.

In the intervening years, Brazil’s economy plunged into two deep recessions — first, during the tenure of his handpicked successor, and then during the pandemic — and ordinary Brazilians suffered greatly.

Lula has said his priorities are fighting poverty, and investing in education and health. He has also said he will bring illegal deforestation of the Amazon to a halt. He sought support from political moderates to form a broad front and defeat Bolsonaro, then tapped some of them to serve in his Cabinet.

In his first act as president Sunday, Lula signed a decree to tighten gun control and set a 30-day deadline for the comptroller-general’s office to evaluate various Bolsonaro decrees that placed official information under seal for 100 years. He also signed a decree that guaranteed a monthly stipend for poor families, and reestablished the mostly Norway-financed Amazon fund for sustainable development in the rainforest.

Claúdio Arantes, a 68-year-old pensioner, carried an old Lula campaign flag on his way to the esplanade. The lifelong Lula supporter attended his 2003 inauguration, and agreed that this time feels different.

“Back then, he could talk about Brazil being united. Now it is divided and won’t heal soon,” Arantes said. “I trust his intelligence to make this national unity administration work so we never have a Bolsonaro again.”

Given the nation’s political fault lines, it is highly unlikely Lula ever reattains the popularity he once enjoyed, or even sees his approval rating rise above 50%, said Maurício Santoro, a political science professor at Rio de Janeiro’s State University.

Furthermore, Santoro said, the credibility of Lula and his Workers’ Party were assailed by a sprawling corruption investigation. Party officials were jailed, including Lula — whose convictions were later annulled on procedural grounds. The Supreme Court then ruled that the judge presiding over the case had colluded with prosecutors to secure a conviction.

Lula and his supporters have maintained he was railroaded. Others were willing to look past possible malfeasance as a means to unseat Bolsonaro and bring the nation back together.

“I always wanted to go the inauguration, I didn’t think I would have a chance to see Lula there after he was jailed,” said Tamires Valente, 43, a marketing professional from Brasilia. “I am very emotional, Lula deserves this.”

But Bolsonaro’s backers refuse to accept someone they view as a criminal returning to the highest office. And with tensions running hot, a series of events has prompted fear that violence could erupt on inauguration day.

On Dec. 12, dozens of people tried to invade a federal police building in Brasilia, and burned cars and buses in other areas of the city. Then on Christmas Eve, police arrested a 54-year-old man who admitted to making a bomb that was found on a fuel truck headed to Brasilia’s airport.

He had been camped outside Brasilia’s army headquarters with hundreds of other Bolsonaro supporters since Nov. 12. He told police he was ready for war against communism, and planned the attack with people he had met at the protests, according to excerpts of his deposition released by local media.

Bolsonaro finally condemned the bomb plot in a Dec. 30 farewell address on social media, hours before flying to the U.S.. His absence on inauguration day marks a break with tradition.

Instead of Bolsonaro, a group representing diverse segments of society performed the role of presenting Lula with the presidential sash to Lula atop the ramp of the presidential palace. Across the sea of people standing before the palace, supporters stretched a massive Brazilian flag over their heads.

Speaking to the crowd, Lula listed shortfalls in government funds that will affect the Brazilian people. He said that, according to the transition team’s report on Bolsonaro’s government, textbooks haven’t been printed for public schools, there are insufficient free medications and COVID-19 vaccines, the threat looms of federal universities shutting down, and civil defense authorities cannot work to prevent disasters.

“Who pays the price for this blackout is, once again, the Brazilian people,” he said, and was promptly met by a chant from the crowd: “No amnesty! No amnesty! No amnesty!”

___

AP writer Diane Jeantet contributed from Rio de Janeiro.

Copyright © The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

AP

Image: A cargo ship is stuck under the part of the structure of the Francis Scott Key Bridge after ...

Associated Press

Authorities identify 2 bodies recovered at site of Baltimore bridge collapse

A major bridge in Baltimore snapped and collapsed after a container ship rammed into it early Tuesday, and several vehicles fell into the river below.

2 days ago

Photo: Mountaineer Jim Whittaker has died at 95....

Gene Johnson, The Associated Press

Lou Whittaker, among the most famous American mountaineers, has died at age 95

Lou Whittaker, a legendary American mountaineer who helped lead ascents of Mount Everest, K2 and Denali, has died at age 95.

2 days ago

File photo: Former Sen. Joe Lieberman speaks in Washington on Jan. 18, 2024....

Associated Press

Former Sen. Joe Lieberman, Democrats’ VP pick in 2000, dead at 82

Former U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman of Connecticut, who nearly won the vice presidency on the Democratic ticket with Al Gore in 2000, has died.

2 days ago

islamic state attack...

Vanessa Gera, The Associated Press

What we know after the Islamic State group claims responsibility for Moscow massacre

The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for an attack on a suburban Moscow concert hall that killed at least 133 people.

5 days ago

Moscow shooting...

The Associated Press

Russia: 60 dead, 145 injured in concert hall raid; Islamic State group claims responsibility

Assailants burst into a concert hall in Moscow on Friday and sprayed the crowd with gunfire, killing over 60 people, injuring more than 100.

7 days ago

Photo: Britain's Kate, Duchess of Cambridge visits 282 (East Ham) Squadron, RAF Air Cadets, Cornwel...

Associated Press

Kate Middleton announces she has cancer, is undergoing chemotherapy

Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, says she is undergoing chemotherapy to treat cancer. She has been out of view since Christmas.

7 days ago

Brazil’s Lula sworn in, vows accountability and rebuilding