Thousands gather for pro-Bolsonaro rallies as critics fear for democracy

Followers arrive in Brasilia and Sao Paulo in hope of staging show of support for beleaguered Brazilian president

Thousands of diehard Jair Bolsonaro followers have converged on Brazil's political and economic capitals hoping to stage a colossal show of support for their beleaguered president amid mounting fears over the future of Brazilian democracy and of possible skirmishes with the government's opponents.

The rightwing nationalist, who recently warned Brazil could face a political rupture", is expected to address packed independence day rallies in Brasilia and Sao Paulo on Tuesday in what observers say is an increasingly weak politician's attempt to project strength.