Brazil presidential candidate calls military 'lazy,' vows to 'exterminate' crime factions

Presidential hopeful Renan Santos has launched a sharp attack on Brazil's military, labeling a significant portion of its members as "lazy" and accusing them of neglecting their duty to fight organized crime. Speaking at an SBT News forum, Santos stated that many military personnel collect general-level salaries without actively engaging in crime prevention.

Santos, representing the Missão party for the 2026 presidential race, did not spare political figures, criticizing both Lula and Flávio. He vowed to "exterminate" criminal factions and suggested that military members should be subject to future pension reforms. He also pointed to specific instances in Rio de Janeiro where he claimed military personnel avoid certain areas.

Beyond security, Santos addressed economic matters, downplaying the impact of high salaries and perks on public finances. He also criticized Brazil's labor laws, arguing that current protections hinder formal employment. Santos believes that increased labor flexibility would lead to more jobs and higher wages. Despite lacking prior experience in public office, Santos asserted his readiness for the presidency, citing his 12 years as a political bloc leader. He indicated a willingness to negotiate with the "centrão" political bloc, but only on his party's terms.