Chile’s Kast Defends Security Reform Amid ‘Illiberal’ Criticism
Chile's President José Antonio Kast rejects the 'illiberal' label for his security reform. A new poll shows most Chileans want the government to withdraw it and seek consensus. The post Chile’s Kast Defends Security Reform Amid ‘Illiberal’ Criticism appeared first on The Rio Times .
Chilean President José Antonio Kast has defended his security reform against what he describes as 'illiberal' criticism. The reform, which aims to tackle rising crime rates, has been labeled 'illiberal' by opposition parties. However, President Kast maintains the reform is not illiberal and is open to changes. The reform, which includes eight constitutional changes, has been sent to the Senate with extreme urgency.
Key among these changes is the creation of a new state of exception for public security, which could be declared for 240 days, during which the government could restrict personal freedoms and intercept communications. A Cadem poll shows 51% of Chileans want the reform withdrawn, 33% favor modifications, and 10% support it as is.
Critics argue the reform centralizes power without proper checks, while supporters say it is necessary to combat drug trafficking. President Kast's openness to changes could be an attempt to ease tensions within his coalition. The reform's fate in the Senate is uncertain, and its final content could be modified. This political uncertainty could affect Chile's institutional stability and business climate.
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