Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva had a head drain removed Thursday evening, marking progress in his recovery following emergency surgery to address bleeding in his skull earlier this week. Doctors described the procedure as successful, with Lula remaining “lucid and speaking normally.”
According to Reuters, Lula’s condition stems from a fall at his home in late October, which led to bleeding between his brain and meningeal membrane. While he remains in intensive care, doctors have assured the public of his steady recovery.
The 79-year-old underwent a second preventive procedure Thursday morning—middle meningeal artery embolization—to reduce the risk of future bleeding. His personal doctor, Roberto Kalil Filho, anticipates Lula’s discharge early next week, at which point the president could potentially resume his duties.
Doctor Roberto Kalil, leader of the medical team that treats Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, speaks during a press conference, after a surgery at the Sirio-Libanes Hospital, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, December 12, 2024. REUTERS/Carla Carniel
The health scare has sparked speculation about Lula’s intentions for the 2026 presidential election. Despite being 81 years old by the next election, a senior aide confirmed Thursday that Lula will be the Workers Party candidate. Presidential spokesperson Paulo Pimenta dismissed concerns over Lula’s age or health, asserting that he remains the strongest contender for the left.
A recent Genial/Quaest poll conducted before Lula’s hospitalization showed a divided electorate. While 52% of Brazilians believe Lula should not seek a fourth term, the number supporting his candidacy rose to 45% from 40% in October. In potential runoffs, Lula was favored to win against conservative opponents, including São Paulo and Goiás governors, as well as banned former president Jair Bolsonaro.
