As the political strife in Brazil deepens, thousands of government sympathizers have taken to the streets against the ongoing impeachment proceeding against President Dilma Rousseff.

Thursday's night rallies happened in 31 cities, including the capital Brasilia, as well as in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. Many protesters branded the impeachment a coup. Rousseff's predecessor and main ally, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, supported the demonstrations and said Brazil's democracy is at stake.

Fmr. president: Brazil is living a historic moment

"Brazil is living a historic moment. On one side are those who want to run over democracy, approving an impeachment without a legal base. On the other side are those who believe in democracy and defending it with body and soul. That's why I want to salute this extraordinary movement that is growing each day and taking over Brazil. It is a movement of peace, of love of the country, and faith in democracy and dialogue. I am sure that this new energy that comes from the heart of Brazil will give the necessary impulse for the country to overcome the crisis and get back on the track of development. Long live freedom, long live democracy," said Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, former Brazilian President.