Analysis
Multiple news outlets (Reuters, BBC, Folha de S.Paulo) reported Lula’s 7 April 2018 speech, noting he said he would not die of hunger or cold and would die of longing for the Brazilian people. None of these sources contain the phrase “nem de falta de tetinho para mamar.” The misquotation likely stems from a paraphrase or satirical rendition, making the statement partially inaccurate.
Background
After being convicted on corruption charges in 2018, Lula gave an emotional address before beginning a 12‑year prison term that was later annulled. His speech emphasized solidarity with the Brazilian population and his resolve not to succumb to basic needs deprivation. The exact wording has been widely reported, but the alleged “tetinho” line does not appear in credible accounts.
Verdict summary
Lula did make a farewell speech, but the quoted phrase is not an exact transcript; the part about “tetinho para mamar” is not found in reliable reports.