Kast Accuses Opposition of 'Obstructing and Boycotting' Megareform in Congress

Chile is currently embroiled in a fierce legislative battle over President Gabriel Boric's ambitious economic reform package, a proposal that has ignited sharp divisions between the government and the opposition. Boric has directly accused opposition parties of deliberately seeking to 'obstruct and boycott' the 'National Reconstruction and Economic and Social Development' bill, a cornerstone of his administration's agenda. The bill, which notably includes substantial tax reductions, particularly for corporations, managed to advance through the Hacienda Commission of the Lower House solely on the strength of government votes. This partisan advancement highlights the deep political chasm that exists, with the center-left opposition vehemently opposing the proposal.

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I deeply regret that the objective of part of the opposition is to obstruct and boycott. The National Reconstruction and Economic and Social Development Project seeks to recover growth and employment for Chile. Projects can always be improved, but when the objective is to destroy and cause harm, that makes it very difficult.

The government's frustration is evident, with the Minister Secretary-General of Government, Mara Sedini, describing the opposition's strategy as an 'unacceptable sabotage.' The opposition, comprising parties from the center-left to the progressive Frente Amplio, is reportedly preparing a formidable response, planning to introduce over a thousand amendments aimed at stalling or fundamentally altering the bill. This legislative tactic, while within the bounds of parliamentary procedure, is viewed by the Executive as a deliberate attempt to undermine its economic objectives. The government's aim is clear: to reactivate the economy, boost growth from 2.5% to a projected 4%, reduce unemployment, and balance fiscal accounts.

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Today we are faced with the surprise of unacceptable sabotage. They will have to answer to the citizens, because this is shameful.

Adding to the complexity, the reform package faces technical scrutiny from independent bodies. Both the Autonomous Fiscal Council (CFA) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have issued warnings, citing a potential 'negative net fiscal impact' and emphasizing the need for robust measures to meet deficit and debt targets. This technical criticism, coupled with the political deadlock, presents a significant challenge for Boric's administration. The government's reliance on support from far-right libertarian parties and sectors of the opposition, like the populist Partido de la Gente (PDG), underscores the precariousness of its legislative position. President Boric has even hinted at the possibility of using executive decrees if the reform stalls, signaling a willingness to bypass parliamentary gridlock if necessary, a move that would undoubtedly further escalate political tensions in Chile.

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It is regressive and does not have the evidence of any internationally renowned expert.