José Antonio Kast, the newly elected president of Chile, has been an outspoken critic of the Cuban regime.
One of his most memorable moments was during a 2021 debate when the founder of the Republican Party displayed a Cuban flag shortly after the social unrest on the island and declared, "We stand with the Cuban people" and expressed hope that "freedom will one day prevail" in Cuba.
During the same electoral campaign, where he was initially defeated by Boric, Kast suggested severing diplomatic ties by closing Chile's embassies in both Cuba and Venezuela as part of his strategy to support democracy.
Further criticism from Kast emerged in 2024 when he lambasted outgoing President Gabriel Boric for smiling alongside Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel, whom Kast labeled a "human rights violator."
The new Chilean president is expected to align the country with the regional right-wing bloc known for its staunch opposition to the leftist regimes of Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela.
At 59, Kast finally assumes office at La Moneda on his third attempt, succeeding the leftist Gabriel Boric and defeating communist candidate Jeanette Jara.
His policy agenda emphasizes a tough stance on immigration and security, under the framework of what he calls a "government of emergency."
"Chile is operating in reverse: criminals roam free while honest citizens live confined. The Implacable Plan is the decisive response that millions of Chileans have been waiting for," Kast has stated.
Additionally, the new president plans a $6 billion fiscal cut within the first 18 months of his administration.
Kast has pledged to be "the president for everyone, without exception," and has promised "real change" for the nation.
He emphasized that every citizen will have the freedom to join in Chile's recovery and "rebirth," pointing out that the public has issued a clear mandate for profound transformations, not continuity.
Addressing thousands of supporters gathered in Santiago, he prayed for "wisdom and strength to meet the challenge" and vowed to restore respect for the law.
"Without security, there is no peace; without peace, there is no democracy; and without democracy, there is no freedom. Chile will once again be free from crime, anxiety, and fear," he asserted, highlighting his commitment to law and order.
José Antonio Kast's Policies and Impact on Chile
What are José Antonio Kast's views on Cuba?
Kast has been a vocal critic of the Cuban regime, advocating for freedom and democracy, and has suggested closing Chile's embassy in Cuba.
How does Kast plan to address crime and security in Chile?
Kast intends to implement a tough stance on crime and security through his "Implacable Plan" as part of a "government of emergency" to restore safety and order.
What fiscal changes does Kast propose?
Kast plans a $6 billion fiscal reduction over the first 18 months of his administration to streamline government spending.