Brazilian president risks backlash over show of strength

Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro (AP)

Thousands of demonstrators have arrived at the central plaza in Brazil’s capital for Independence Day celebrations in support of embattled president Jair Bolsonaro.

Mass participation in rallies scheduled across the country would reinforce the right-wing leader’s push to prove he is a strong candidate for re-election next year – despite slumping poll ratings – and could help him recover momentum after a string of setbacks.