We support protesters’ cause, say Brazil players

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Nitish Kumar is a shrewd politician and is well aware that leadership skills have to be matched with acceptability. The BJP can come under pressure if the JD(U) goes it alone in Bihar.

Arun Nehru [1]

Chelsea defender David Luiz on Tuesday led his Brazil teammates in speaking out in support of mass protests in the country that have overshadowed the start of the Confederations Cup.
Some 2,50,000 people took to the streets of major cities on Monday to protest against public transport price hikes and the billions of dollars invested in major sporting events at the alleged expense of health and education.
Although the protest marches have been largely peaceful, there have been several clashes between protesters and police.
“I’m in favour of demonstrations without violence,” Luiz said during a press conference prior to Brazil’s match against Mexico in Fortaleza.
“Citizens have a right to express their opinions and the fact they’re not happy. It’s a way of achieving their demands and improving the situation in the country.”
“I’m Brazilian, even though I live abroad, and I always hope that Brazil will progress,” he said.
“The demonstrators are fighting for health and education. We need unity. We hope that we can reach a consensus and that the future will be better. Of course, we’re not happy when we see the violence.”
Full-back Dani Alves also gave his backing to the protesters. On his Instagram account, he posted a picture of a human eye made to resemble the yellow and green national flag, with the motto “Order and Progress” written across the pupil. “Order and Progress without violence for a better Brazil, a peaceful Brazil, an educated, healthy, honest and happy Brazil,” he wrote.
Hulk echoed his colleagues’ comments. “Today, I have a privileged social position, but I don’t forget that I come from a poor background. They are right to protest. What they say and what they hope for is in the right direction. We have to listen to what they say.
“Brazil needs to progress in lots of areas and that’s why we support them. We know they’re telling the truth.” He added: “It’s a triumph for Brazil to have the World Cup. There are millions of people who love football in this country.”