Chilean President José Antonio Kast has stressed the fundamental value of political respect, even when faced with significant ideological divides. His remarks come after a week marked by controversy surrounding the international far-right Madrid Forum held in Santiago. Additionally, President Kast has ruled out an official government ceremony for the upcoming 53rd anniversary of the 1973 coup d’état.
Speaking at the Fraternitas de la República 2026 ceremony of the Grand Lodge of Chile, Kast emphasized finding common ground. He described the event as “a place of respect, a place where one can converse.” Such dialogue, he added, fosters dreams for the Chile “we all want,” imagining a unified nation and republic. This strong call for political respect resonated with attendees, highlighting the administration’s commitment to national cohesion despite differences.
Addressing authorities and various societal representatives, the President underscored the need to “care for institutions.” He further highlighted national unity, stating, “We are brothers, as we are children of the same homeland.” This sentiment extends to bridging religious and philosophical differences for shared community spaces.
Kast’s statements follow sharp criticism from the Chilean left regarding comments made by Argentinian President Javier Milei. Milei spoke at the Madrid Forum last Thursday, an event organized by Spain’s far-right, where he strongly denounced the left.
“The best antidote against these dirty leftists denying reality is data,” Milei asserted. He called Chile an “emblematic place” due to its recent history. This history, he claimed, reminds people of the “immense value of giving the cultural battle.” Moreover, Milei stated that Chile experienced “stability and growth” for over 40 years after the overthrow of “communist [Salvador] Allende.”
Meanwhile, President Kast reiterated his stance on the September 11 anniversary. He confirmed no official government act would commemorate 53 years since the coup against Salvador Allende’s socialist government. This upcoming anniversary marks his first as president.
Kast previously noted the importance of remembering historical dates. However, he maintained distance from an institutional executive commemoration. Conversely, left-leaning organizations, victim families, and sympathizers will hold their traditional march. This widely attended walk to Santiago’s General Cemetery has been a yearly act of remembrance since the 1980s.
Earlier, Kast had paid tribute to Camilo Escalona, former Senate President and Socialist Party leader, who passed away on Friday night at 71. The government declared two days of national mourning. Kast described Escalona as “a brave man, a man of his word,” acknowledging their differing views.
Escalona played a pivotal role in Chile’s “Concertación” coalition. This alliance governed Chile for two decades following the end of Augusto Pinochet’s military dictatorship (1973-1990).
