Thu Oct 23 15:40:51 UTC 2025: Lula Announces Fourth Presidential Bid, Dismisses Age Concerns During Asia Trip
JAKARTA, Indonesia – Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva declared his intention to seek a fourth nonconsecutive term in office during a state visit to Indonesia on Thursday, brushing aside concerns about his age.
Speaking at a joint news conference with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, the 78-year-old Lula asserted his vigor, stating, “I’m turning 80, but you can be sure I have the same energy I had when I was 30. And I’m going to run for a fourth term in Brazil.”
Lula’s announcement comes amidst a diplomatic tour of Asia, with a planned meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Malaysia on Sunday, their first face-to-face since a recent phone call. The two leaders are expected to discuss Trump’s recently imposed 50% trade tariff on Brazil, a retaliatory measure against the ongoing prosecution of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, a Trump ally.
While Brazil’s constitution limits presidents to two consecutive terms, Lula, who served two terms from 2003 to 2010, is eligible to run again after returning to power in 2023. He had previously hinted at a potential run in 2026, citing the country’s political climate and his health as determining factors.
Despite concerns from some Brazilian politicians regarding his age and recent health issues, including emergency brain surgery, Lula maintains he is healthy and active.
Lula currently leads in early polls for the 2026 election, boosted in part by the unpopular trade tariffs from the U.S., though his approval rating remains divided. With Bolsonaro barred from running and serving a lengthy prison sentence, the field of challengers remains unclear, though analysts suggest Bolsonaro’s endorsement could be crucial for any viable contender.
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