José Bento da Silva, a 103-year-old [1] former councilor, said he intends to vote in the upcoming 2026 [2] elections in Minas Gerais, Brazil.
His determination highlights a lifelong commitment to the democratic process in the Sul de Minas region. In a country with a complex political history, the participation of centenarians serves as a symbol of civic duty and endurance.
Silva, who previously served as a councilor, said he will not abandon his role as a voter. He views the act of casting a ballot as an essential responsibility for every citizen, regardless of age.
"Se estiver vivo, tem que votar," Silva said [1]. Translated, he said that if you are alive, you have to vote.
The report on his intentions was published July 28, 2026 [3]. Silva's resolve reflects a personal philosophy that the right to vote is a duty that persists as long as one is living.
His experience as a former public official informs his perspective on the importance of the polls. By participating in the 2026 [2] state elections, he continues a pattern of engagement that has spanned more than a century of Brazilian life.
Local observers in the Sul de Minas region see his stance as a reminder of the persistence of democratic values. Silva's commitment suggests that the drive to influence governance does not diminish with age; it remains a vital part of his identity.
“"Se estiver vivo, tem que votar."”
The commitment of a 103-year-old former official to vote underscores the cultural weight of civic duty in Brazil. In the context of the 2026 elections, such narratives often serve to encourage voter turnout across all demographics by framing the ballot as a fundamental right and responsibility of living citizens.
