Kast Sworn in as Chile President in Historic Right-Wing Shift

Chile inaugurated conservative leader José Antonio Kast as president of Chile on Wednesday, marking one of the most significant shifts to the political right in decades and indicating a new direction in the country’s governance.

Kast took the oath of office in the coastal city of Valparaíso, succeeding outgoing president Gabriel Boric after winning the presidential runoff election in December with more than 58% of the vote. His victory over leftist candidate and former labor minister Jeannette Jara highlighted a clear change in Chile politics.

The new president’s rise reflects voter concerns over crime, illegal immigration and economic uncertainty, issues that dominated the election campaign and shaped the national debate. Kast built support with promises to strengthen law enforcement, tighten border controls and address organized crime.

• José Antonio Kast sworn in as Chile’s new president
• Right-wing leader signals policy shift on security, economy
• Chile politics enters new phase after Boric presidency

Kast, a lawyer and former member of Congress, founded the conservative Republican Party in 2019 after leaving the Independent Democratic Union. His presidency represents one of the strongest rightward movements in Chilean politics since the end of the military rule of Augusto Pinochet in 1990.

In his inaugural speech, Kast said his administration would focus on public security and economic growth. He promised measures to combat organized crime, reduce illegal migration and improve national safety.

The president also stressed the need to strengthen Chile’s economic environment and attract foreign investment. His administration plans to pursue pro-market policies aimed at supporting businesses, increasing employment opportunities and encouraging long-term economic stability.

However, the new government faces political challenges. Chile’s Congress remains divided, meaning the president will need cooperation from different political parties to pass key legislation and implement policy reforms.

Observers say the election outcome also reflects a wider political shift in parts of Latin America, where conservative leaders have gained support amid concerns about crime, economic pressure and dissatisfaction with existing political leadership.

Supporters welcomed Kast’s inauguration, saying his leadership could improve security and economic performance. At the same time, critics and protest groups expressed concern that some policies could affect progressive reforms introduced in recent years

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As Kast begins his four-year term, his government will face scrutiny over its ability to manage security issues, stabilize the economy and work with a politically divided legislature.