• Protests against a bill potentially granting amnesty to ex-President Bolsonaro occurred in all states of Brazil.
• Artists and the public organized large demonstrations denouncing the proposed "Banditry Bill."
• Polling shows a divided nation on Bolsonaro's fate, with many supporting his conviction.

On Sunday, Brazilians staged significant protests across all 26 states and the Federal District, opposing a potential pardon for former President Jair Bolsonaro and his allies, who face convictions for coup attempts. The backlash intensified following the lower house of Congress passing a constitutional amendment, which could complicate arrests and prosecutions of lawmakers. This move is perceived as self-serving, as it aims to shield lawmakers from accountability, according to CBS News, South China Morning Post, and Al Jazeera.

The protests were propelled by the rapid advancement of a "shielding law," alongside a controversial bill dubbed the "Banditry Bill," potentially granting amnesty for Bolsonaro and hundreds of supporters connected to the January uprising. Music icons such as Caetano Veloso and Gilberto Gil participated in the protests, underscoring the artists' role in mobilizing public sentiment. Veloso highlighted his outrage over lawmakers favoring self-protective legislation, as noted by India Times and South China Morning Post.

During these protests, demonstrators articulated their frustration towards the congressional action, perceiving it as prioritizing the safeguarding of corrupt officials over urgent socio-economic issues. A significant turnout, estimated at around 42,000 in São Paulo alone, represents the largest left-leaning demonstration since the current administration took office. As Aline Borges, a protester from Brasília, expressed, “We are here to protest this Congress, which is made up of criminals and corrupt people dressed as politicians,” reflecting a widespread sentiment that resonates with many Brazilians, according to Al Jazeera and India Times.

Polling data reveals that Brazil remains sharply divided over Bolsonaro's conviction; reports indicate that 50% of respondents are in favor of his imprisonment, while 43% oppose it, highlighting the contentious nature of these political developments. Despite his legal troubles, Bolsonaro has stated his intention to run for president in the 2026 elections, as stated in reports by CBS News and Al Jazeera.