Riots in Brazil are based on lies and a threat to democracy

Letters to the editor: our readers share their views. Please send your letters to letters@independent.co.uk

Monday 09 January 2023 16:42 GMT

We must stand up for democracy and accept the results of fair elections – or face the consequences (AFP via Getty)

The insurrection in Brazil on Sunday after the Brazilian election was the same as the Capitol Hill riots – an attack by people who were misled to believe that the election was stolen. This, in Brazil as in the US, is a complete falsehood.

There has been a long history of insurrections and leaders being overthrown, but they were normally against tyrants and dictators – not elected people in a democracy.

The worry is that these events will lead others to endanger democracy, and that must be stopped. We must stand up for democracy and accept the results of fair elections – or face the consequences.

Dennis Fitzgerald

Melbourne, Australia

Royal drama

Throughout my adult life I rarely, if ever, read about the latest “goings on” in the royal family. However, one cannot seem to avoid the latest revelations, which appear everywhere, every day.

Reading through the article by Sean O’Grady reminded me of the wise words from Spike Milligan regarding the comedian Tony Hancock: “He shut the door on all the people he knew, then he shut the door on himself.”

Of course, there are many differences between now and 50-odd years ago: primarily that the royal family has never been even slightly amusing.

Robert Boston

Kingshill, Kent

Brexit opportunities

Once upon a time, we had the “loony left” – now it seems we have the ridiculous right.

Tory politicians like Jacob Rees-Mogg warning Mr Sunak not to “let down electors” on Brexit opportunities is a bit rich when, as the person responsible for exploiting these opportunities, so bereft was he of ideas he had to ask the public if they could come up with any.

G Forward

Stirling

Does Rishi Sunak use the NHS?

Alan Cox is correct in saying many chief executives receive private healthcare as a benefit of their position. Many also receive automobiles. Would the CEO of Mercedes be given a BMW?

As the CEO of the NHS, the prime minister needs to be seen to be using his “company’s” product.