Brazil – Brazilian President Jair Bolsorano has announced on live television, that he has tested positive for Covid-19.
The president which has repeatedly trivialized the pandemic and openly disregarded social distancing, even as Brazil became the second-worst-hit country after the United States, said that “There’s no reason for fear. That’s life. Life goes on,” as he thanked God for his life and the role he has been given to decide the future of Brazil.
In March, as Covid-19 claimed its first victims in Brazil, he used an address to the nation to brag that, if infected, he would quickly shake off the illness thanks to his “athlete’s background”. Since then, Bolsonaro has continued to attend social events and political rallies, often wearing masks incorrectly, or not wearing them at all.
After announcing his positive result on Tuesday, Bolsonaro stepped back from the reporters, removed his mask and, grinningly said: “Just look at my face. I’m well, fine, thank God. Thanks to all those who have been praying for me, and to those who criticise me, no problem, carry on criticising as much as you like.”
Bolsonaro’s diagnosis comes just three days after he had lunch at the home of the US ambassador to Brazil, Todd Chapman, in the capital, Brasília.