In a powerful affirmation of democratic values, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva made a decision this week that underscores the strength and resilience of Brazil's democratic institutions. On the third anniversary of riots that shook the capital city of Brasilia, President Lula vetoed legislation that would have dramatically reduced the prison sentence of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who was convicted of coup plotting.

The timing of this decision carries profound symbolic weight. January 8 marks three years since supporters of then-outgoing President Bolsonaro stormed government buildings in Brasilia following the 2022 election. Rather than dwelling on that dark chapter, President Lula framed the anniversary as something to celebrate, calling it a day marked by "our democracy's victory" and a "victory over those who tried to seize power by force, disregarding the will expressed at the ballot box."

This perspective shift transforms a potentially divisive moment into an opportunity to recognize how Brazil's institutions held firm during a critical test. The country's judicial system processed the cases related to the riots, and democratic norms prevailed despite intense pressure and challenging circumstances.

The Bright Side

What makes this moment particularly noteworthy is how it demonstrates the maturing of Brazil's democracy. Despite intense political polarization, the country's checks and balances are functioning as designed. President Lula, representing the left, and a conservative-dominated Congress are navigating their differences through constitutional processes rather than extra-legal means.

The legislative process itself shows democracy in action. While Congress passed a bill that would have reduced Bolsonaro's 27-year sentence to just two years, President Lula exercised his constitutional right to veto the legislation. Now Congress has the opportunity to override that veto if it chooses, though analysts suggest this is unlikely as the country approaches general elections in October 2026.

This back-and-forth represents healthy democratic discourse, where different branches of government exercise their respective powers and the rule of law guides outcomes. Even Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, the former president's son and endorsed candidate for the 2026 presidential race, is working within the system despite his strong disagreement with the veto.

Brazil's journey offers an inspiring example for democracies worldwide facing similar challenges. The country has shown that institutions can withstand stress tests, that electoral results can be respected even when deeply contested, and that the peaceful transfer of power remains the cornerstone of democratic governance.

As Brazil moves forward, the focus on treating January 8 as a celebration of democracy rather than just a remembrance of turmoil sets a constructive tone. It acknowledges difficult moments while choosing to emphasize the positive outcome: a democracy that proved stronger than attempts to undermine it. This perspective helps unite rather than divide, looking toward a future built on respect for democratic processes and the will of the voters.