Brazilian presidential candidates Jair Bolsonaro and Lula da Silva have lashed out at each other in their final debate ahead of tomorrow’s election. They called each other liars and warned voters that their opponent would be disastrous for the country.

Bolsonaro cited the corruption allegations that plagued Da Silva during his 2003-2010 reign. Da Silva was convicted but was allowed out of the cell when it became clear that the judge was biased. “With me you have security, you have honesty, no theft,” promised the incumbent president.

He also said he cracked down on violent gangs in the country more harshly than his rival. “Violence has decreased during my tenure, while it has increased during your rule.” Bolsonaro also portrayed his opponent as someone who wants to introduce abortion and legalize drugs.

lies and insults

Da Silva stressed that Brazil thrived under him but became isolated internationally under Bolsonaro. “Brazil is even lonelier than Cuba. You are not related to anyone. Nobody wants to see you, nobody comes here.”

Bolsonaro laughed at the criticism and said the Arab world welcomed him “with open arms” and that he had recently called President Biden. He then bit Da Silva that he “must stop lying”.

During the two and a half hour debate, the candidates frequently attacked each other personally. Da Silva described Bolsonaro’s politics as disturbed and himself as out of joint. As an example, he cited a recent incident in which a politician opened fire on officials. “That’s your model for harmony,” he accused the president.

If Da Silva is re-elected on Sunday, it will mean a third term for the 77-year-old politician. Bolsonaro is hoping for re-election for a second term.

Analysts fear what will happen if Bolsonaro doesn’t acknowledge an election loss. Many assume that, like his former American counterpart, the “Tropical Trump” will do whatever it takes to remain in power. Bolsonaro previously said he feared voter fraud without evidence. Also last night during the debate he repeated again that “the whole system is against me”.