Indigenous leader Raoni Metuktire backs Lula ahead of Brazil’s October election

Thursday 09 April 2026 - 09:00

Prominent Brazilian indigenous leader Raoni Metuktire has announced his support for President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva ahead of the country’s presidential election scheduled for October, despite expressing concerns over certain government-backed projects.

Speaking during a major gathering of indigenous communities in Brasília, the internationally recognized Amazon defender confirmed his intention to support Lula’s bid for another term. The veteran leader, known for his lifelong advocacy for indigenous rights and environmental protection, emphasized that his backing comes with expectations.

Although he remains a key ally of the current president, Raoni has previously criticized Lula’s support for oil exploration projects near the mouth of the Amazon River. He reiterated that such initiatives could pose serious risks to the environment and to indigenous territories.

“I will support him so that he remains president,” Raoni said, highlighting recent government actions in favor of indigenous communities. Since returning to power in 2023, Lula’s administration has officially recognized multiple indigenous lands and has contributed to a significant reduction in deforestation rates in the Amazon.

The upcoming election is expected to be highly contested, with Lula facing Flávio Bolsonaro, son of former president Jair Bolsonaro. The political landscape remains polarized, particularly on issues related to environmental protection and indigenous rights.

During Bolsonaro’s presidency, policies were widely criticized for halting the recognition of indigenous territories and encouraging economic activities linked to deforestation. While progress has been noted under Lula, Raoni warned that illegal mining and ongoing deforestation still threaten indigenous ways of life.

He also voiced opposition to a proposed railway project that would cross large parts of the Amazon rainforest, raising further concerns about environmental degradation. According to Raoni, climate change is accelerating due to harmful human activities, and urgent action is needed to protect natural ecosystems.

His endorsement reflects both continued support and a call for stronger environmental commitments from Brazil’s leadership as the election approaches.