José Antonio Kast's Election: A Return to Pinochetism in Chile

José Antonio Kast, a candidate who openly admires the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet, was elected president of Chile in December 2025. His political journey began in 1988 when he supported Pinochet's campaign to extend his rule. Despite Pinochet's eventual loss in the plebiscite, Kast maintained his support for the regime, which is notorious for the torture of approximately 40,000 individuals and the deaths of over 3,000 during its rule. Kast's election has raised concerns about the resurgence of Pinochetist sentiments in Chilean society.

The Guardian

Kast's electoral success can be attributed to various factors, including his populist proposals focused on public security and a commitment to expelling undocumented migrants. However, his ability to "reactivate that dormant Pinochetism" has been particularly noted by experts. Cristóbal Rovira Kaltwasser, a political science professor, emphasized that while Pinochet lost the 1988 plebiscite, he still garnered 44% of the vote, indicating a persistent undercurrent of support for his regime among segments of the Chilean population.

The Guardian

Katia Chornik, a researcher at Cambridge University, argues that Kast's victory reflects a generational amnesia regarding the atrocities committed during the Pinochet dictatorship. Chornik, whose parents were political prisoners, highlights the importance of education in addressing this historical gap. She has conducted extensive research on the experiences of survivors and has launched a digital platform, Cantos Cautivos, to document testimonies from that era. Chornik's work underscores the need for a comprehensive understanding of the past to prevent the normalization of authoritarian ideologies.

The Guardian

Critics of Kast's presidency express concern that his election signifies a troubling shift in Chilean politics. Chornik notes that the current generation may lack sufficient knowledge about the dictatorship's horrific crimes, which could lead to a dangerous acceptance of authoritarianism. The election of a candidate who openly admires a regime responsible for severe human rights violations raises alarms about the potential erosion of democratic values in Chile.

The Guardian

In response to Kast's election, Chornik stated, “With Kast’s election, it’s clear that people have forgotten or don’t have enough information about the horrors of the dictatorship, so education is absolutely key.” This sentiment reflects a broader concern among scholars and activists regarding the implications of Kast's presidency for Chile's democratic future.

The Guardian

As José Antonio Kast assumes office, the focus will likely shift to how his administration addresses issues of historical memory and human rights. The potential for educational reforms aimed at informing the public about the past may become a critical area of discussion, as advocates seek to ensure that the lessons of history are not lost on future generations.

The Guardian