The network confirmed it will move forward with the broadcast on October 18 at 8:00 PM local time, noting that the absence of one of the candidates will not prevent the transmission, in accordance with rules previously communicated to both campaigns.

Lula, of the Workers’ Party, confirmed his attendance at the event, while Flávio Bolsonaro, of the Liberal Party, announced he does not plan to attend.

In a video sent to the broadcaster to confirm his presence, the president stated he hoped his opponent would attend so the public could understand the differences between their campaigns and platforms.

In addition to deciding to skip Sunday’s event, Flavio indicated that his campaign is still evaluating whether to participate in the final debate before the runoff—organized by TV Globo for October 23.

This decision contrasts with the senator’s earlier statements; on October 6, he had expressed his intention to participate in these events, defending them as opportunities to contrast his proposals with those of the head of state.

During the campaign for the first round of the presidential election, both candidates avoided participating in joint debates, albeit for different reasons.

Flavio’s absence from the Band event would limit another opportunity for direct confrontation between the candidates, coming just one week before the runoff vote scheduled for October 25.

jdt/otf/mar