Roberto Arroyo returns to PDG, bloc grows to 14 deputies
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Congressman Roberto Arroyo is returning to the Partido de la Gente (PDG) party, increasing its bloc in parliament to 14 deputies.
- PDG Secretary General Franco Parisi confirmed Arroyo's return, expressing enthusiasm for the expanded representation.
- Parisi also discussed potential alliances and criticized President Kast's approach to constitutional reform.
The Partido de la Gente (PDG) is set to expand its parliamentary representation with the return of Congressman Roberto Arroyo. Franco Parisi, the party's secretary general, confirmed that Arroyo will rejoin the PDG, bringing the party's total number of deputies to 14. Parisi expressed significant enthusiasm for this development, viewing it as a strengthening of the party's presence in the legislature.
He returns completely (to militate). I love him very much, a tremendous deputy.
Parisi announced that Arroyo's formal reintegration will be marked by a press conference at Congress. He conveyed his personal affection for Arroyo, describing him as a "tremendous deputy." The PDG leader also indicated the party's ongoing efforts to broaden its support base, mentioning potential outreach to the mayor of Quilicura, Paulina Bobadilla, and discussions with independent deputy Jaime Araya. Parisi further noted his admiration for the mayor of Santiago, Mario Desbordes, praising his political acumen and work, and expressed a desire to support his re-election bid.
We are 14 again, Doctor Arroyo returns to the family and we are very excited. We continue to travel and try to sign up.
In a critique of the current political climate, Parisi addressed President Kast's handling of constitutional reform. He argued against reopening the constitution, especially after previous rejections, stating that it introduces unnecessary uncertainty for investors. Parisi asserted that Kast lacks leadership, suggesting that the president appears unable to assert authority within his own party and government. He characterized Kast's actions as a "clumsiness" that opens a door that cannot be easily closed.
We want the PDG to start opening its arms to the right and to the left.
Furthermore, Parisi addressed a complaint filed by the Electoral Service (Servel) regarding unaccredited expenses. He stated that the action is directed at the former general administrator of funds and assured that the PDG would comply with Servel's requests. Parisi acknowledged that the party needs to improve its financial reporting, noting that some members pay dues in cash, which is not always accepted. He committed to resolving these issues within three months, indicating his personal involvement in rectifying the situation.
We said loud and clear after the second rejection that 'the Constitution is not touched,' even they, the Republicans who came out happy with their Pinochet Constitution, whatever they want to call it (...) What is President Kast doing? Opening a door that cannot be closed.
Originally published by Cooperativa in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.