Flávio Bolsonaro flees to the US and declares himself the ‘leader’ of Brazil

After his defeat in the Brazilian presidential election, Flávio Bolsonaro traveled to Miami, USA, and declared himself the ‘leader’ of Brazil. Previously, he had released a letter claiming to be the ‘true president’ of Brazil, but he later removed it. In a subsequent letter, he changed his designation to ‘leader of Brazil.’

He made this statement after arriving in Florida, USA, on Wednesday (October 28) aboard a private jet, accompanied by family members. Flávio was defeated by Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in last Sunday’s presidential election, following which he left the country for the United States.

Major Brazilian media outlets have criticized this declaration by Flávio. Three influential newspapers—*Folha de S.Paulo*, *O Globo*, and *O Estado de S. Paulo*—described his remarks as an attempt to incite a coup.

Notably, even Flávio’s own political party has acknowledged Lula’s victory in the election. Brazil’s electoral authorities, other constitutional institutions, and international election-monitoring organizations have also recognized Lula’s win as legitimate.

Flight to the US via Argentina

Following his electoral defeat, Flávio was not seen in public for over 24 hours. On Tuesday night, Argentine immigration authorities reported that he had entered their country by land.

From there, Flávio departed from Puerto Iguazú Airport in Argentina on a private jet, bound for Guayaquil, Ecuador. He was accompanied by his wife and two teenage daughters. Reports indicate that this route was chosen specifically to avoid Brazilian airspace.

After a brief stop in Ecuador, the aircraft arrived at Miami-Opa-locka Executive Airport in Florida, USA. Flávio and his family members disembarked at 9:24 AM local time on Wednesday. Flavio, dressed in black bulletproof gear, appeared somber. He later left the airport in a grey vehicle, accompanied by family members and shielded by black umbrellas; they were under police protection.

Flavio did not respond to any questions from the journalists waiting at the airport. There were also no supporters present to welcome him.