Nationwide Protests Erupt Against PEC da Bandidagem and Political Amnesty

On September 21, 2025, thousands of Brazilians took to the streets in nationwide protests opposing the controversial PEC da Bandidagem legislation and the proposed political amnesty for supporters of the January 8 coup. Demonstrations occurred in major cities including São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília, where citizens expressed their dissatisfaction with the current political climate and the government's intentions to grant amnesty to coup participants.

Participants included not just ordinary citizens but also prominent artists, who voiced their concerns through various forms of protest, adding a cultural dimension to the demonstrations. According to reports, these protests have seen widespread participation, reflecting a growing discontent among the populace regarding perceived threats to democracy.

The PEC da Bandidagem, which critics argue would undermine public safety by potentially decriminalizing various actions associated with criminal activity, has been met with fierce opposition as many fear it would lead to increased lawlessness. Protesters carried banners, chanted slogans, and engaged in peaceful demonstrations, emphasizing their desire for accountability and the safeguarding of democratic institutions.

Social media platforms were flooded with images and videos from the protests, providing a glimpse into the nationwide outcry against the proposal. Furthermore, artists and public figures leveraged their platforms to amplify the protests' messages, calling for unity in the face of what they consider a significant erosion of civil liberties.

As the nation continues to grapple with these contentious issues, the protests signal a clear message from the public: that they stand firmly against both the PEC da Bandidagem and the potential granting of amnesty to those who undermined Brazil's democracy.