Chile’s presidential rivals spar over security tactics as Kast uses bulletproof glass while Jara accuses him of fearmongering ahead of Sunday’s election
SANTIAGO: Chile’s left-wing presidential candidate Jeannette Jara has accused far-right rival Jose Antonio Kast of scaremongering after he delivered a speech from behind bulletproof glass to highlight the country’s crime problem.
Foreign crime gangs have caused a surge in violent crime in Chile over the past decade, creating deep public concern in the traditionally orderly nation.
The murder rate and number of kidnappings have both doubled in ten years, making insecurity the top voter concern ahead of Sunday’s election.
At a packed Santiago rally, Jara accused the right of deliberately stoking fear among citizens.
“I don’t hide behind any glass because I am not afraid of the Chilean people,” the 51-year-old Communist candidate declared.
Her comments referenced Kast’s speech last week in the coastal resort of Vina del Mar, where he spoke from behind protective glass.
Kast’s security measure echoed protections used for US President Donald Trump after he survived a 2024 assassination attempt during his campaign.
Chile has experienced little political violence since returning to democracy following the 1973-1990 military dictatorship.
When questioned during a Monday television debate, Kast declined to confirm whether he had received specific threats justifying the bulletproof glass.
Jara currently leads polls ahead of Sunday’s first-round presidential election.
Kast leads several right-wing candidates competing with promises of harsh treatment for criminals and illegal migrants.
Polls indicate Kast would defeat Jara if the election proceeds to a December runoff as expected.
The former labor minister accused right-wing campaigns of “putting hatred, fear and despair at the center” of political discourse.
“If we vote for far-right candidates, we go back on all our women’s rights,” 19-year-old social worker Michelle Ponce told AFP.
Jara, the only working-class candidate among leading contenders, vowed to ensure all Chilean families can comfortably make ends meet.
At his campaign rally, ultraconservative Kast reiterated his vision where criminals live in fear while “citizens walk about freely.”
“Without order there is no freedom and without freedom there is no future,” he insisted.
Kast supporter Jacqueline Ruz told AFP “we are completely unsafe” and cited unprecedented events during the past year.
“We need someone who will take a firm hand,” the 56-year-old added.
Eight candidates total are competing in Chile’s presidential election. – AFP
