Chile debates whether current government qualifies as ultraderecha

Political commentators in Chile are debating the use of the term “ultraderecha” to describe the administration of President José Antonio Kast. Columns and interviews cite the need to apply a consistent standard of liberal democracy, rule of law, separation of powers and fundamental freedoms when labeling any government.

Critics on the left have previously applied the label to former President Sebastián Piñera and now argue that Kast’s government shows “retrocesos democráticos”. Others, including former minister Luis Cordero and journalist Patricio Fernández, contend there is no clear evidence that the current executive threatens democratic institutions. The discussion highlights differing views on how the term should be defined and whether it accurately reflects policy actions or merely serves as a political weapon.