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Chile Wildfires Claim 19 Lives, Prompt Leadership Discussions

1/21/2026

Center

Kast Addresses Wildfires

Wildfires in central-southern Chile have killed at least 19 people.
The fires left hundreds homeless.
Over 50,000 residents were evacuated.
Chilean President-elect José Antonio Kast, who will take office on March 11, discussed disaster response with outgoing President Gabriel Boric.
Kast criticized Boric's handling of past disasters, outlined goals on economic growth, crime, and migration, and said a cabinet announcement is expected soon.

Right

Kast Unveils Cabinet

Jose Antonio Kast, president-elect, announced his cabinet on January 20, 2026, including two lawyers who defended Augusto Pinochet.
Kast will take office on March 11, 2026.
Jorge Quiroz will serve as finance minister, aiming to address economic decline through deregulation and tax cuts.
Daniel Mas will head the mining ministry, Fernando Rabat will lead the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights, and Trinidad Steinert will oversee the Public Security Ministry.

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Kast Addresses Wildfires

Wildfires in central-southern Chile have killed at least 19 people.
The fires left hundreds homeless.
Over 50,000 residents were evacuated.
Chilean President-elect José Antonio Kast, who will take office on March 11, discussed disaster response with outgoing President Gabriel Boric.
Kast criticized Boric's handling of past disasters, outlined goals on economic growth, crime, and migration, and said a cabinet announcement is expected soon.

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