Planned coup celebration in Brazil stopped by Judge

A local court judge has barred a planned celebration marking the anniversary of the 1964 Brazilian coup which overthrew the democratic government.

President Jair Bolsonaro had planned to celebrate the anniversary of the start of military rule on Sunday.

The far-right president’s decision had provoked widespread condemnation.

The chief executive defended the decision earlier this week, stating the aim was to remember the era rather than commemorate military rule itself.

As per Judge Ivani Silva da Luz said the event celebrating the 55th anniversary of the coup was not “compatible with the process of democratic reconstruction”.

The judge said commemorative dates must be approved by the country’s Congress.

It can be recalled that during the 21 years of dictatorship in the 1960s and 70s, at least 434 people were killed or disappeared.

None of the military officials in power at the time has been prosecuted.

President Bolsonaro, who is a former army captain and openly admires former dictators, was elected in October.

He is a divisive figure who has sparked controversy with racist, homophobic and misogynistic comments.