Demonstrators took to the streets in at least 22 of Brazil’s 26 states to protest President Jair Bolsonaro's handling of the pandemic — as deaths from COVID-19 in the country surged past 500,000 Saturday, per AP.
The big picture: Brazil has the world's second-highest coronavirus death toll and third-highest number of reported cases. Only 12% of the country's population has been vaccinated against the virus, AP notes.
Protesters holding signs reading "'Bolsonaro out" and other statements against the president's administration in Rio de Janeiro on June 19. Bolsonaro was fined earlier this month for not wearing a mask at a rally. Photo: Buda Mendes/Getty Images
A demonstrator with boards depicting Bolsonaro (L) and his son (R) as prisoners during the protest in São Paulo on June 19. Brazil's Senate has launched an investigation into the government's handling of the pandemic. Photo: Rodrigo Paiva/Getty Images
A rally against Bolsonaro's administration in Brasilia June 19. Health Minister Marcelo Queiroga tweeted that the 500,000 lives lost to the pandemic "affects Brazil" and the world. "I work tirelessly to vaccinate all Brazilians in the shortest time possible and change this scenario that has plagued us for over a year," he added. Photo: Andressa Anholete/Getty Images
Members of opposition parties and social movements participate in a protest against Bolsonaro's handling in Brasilia on June 19. Photo: Sergio Lima/AFP via Getty Images
A demonstrator holding a sign in the shape of a cross stating "500,000 deaths" during the São Paulo protest June 19. The decision to host the Copa América soccer tournament during the pandemic has angered many in Brazil. Photo: Rodrigo Paiva/Getty Images
Demonstrators wearing costumes depicting Bolsonaro and death during the Rio de Janeiro protest on June 19. Photo: Buda Mendes/Getty Images
Editor's note: This article has been updated with more photos.
