MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Lula da Silva’s closest advisor denies a repeat of Chilean scenario in Brazil

Marco Aurelio García his master’s voice, not always

President Lula da Silva’s main advisor in international affairs Marco Aurelio Garcia brushed aside the idea that Brazil could repeat a scenario like that of Chile in the last elections, when the opposition defeated the ruling coalition.

“That comparison is absurd and senseless” said García when asked about analysts speculations that Brazil could face a similar situation to that which took conservative Sebastian Piñera to victory over the incumbent Eduardo Frei, and in spite of the overwhelming popularity and support for President Michelle Bachelet, above 80%.

Last week even President Lula da Silva warned left wing militants and followers to unite behind an only candidate for next October presidential elections, thus avoiding a repeat of the defeat of the centre-left coalition, as happened in Chile.

García however has an entirely different interpretation of the political scenario and the events that led to the defeat of the ruling coalition in Chile.

“It’s a comparison which is senseless and does not apply to Brazil. What happened in Chile was that the non Conservatives had three presidential candidates” emphasized Garcia in reference to the official coalition hopeful Eduardo Frei; the dissident Marco Enríquez-Ominami and Jorge Arrarte.

The head of Lula da Silva’s ruling force Workers Party senate block, Aloizo Mercadante also rejected similarities with Chile and added another ingredient.

“If the opposition likes Chile as a reference, I’d rather look for Uruguay” said Senator Mercadante.

In Uruguay the ruling Broad Front left-wing coalition managed to win again in last November thus ensuring a second consecutive period.