Chilean President Kast defends government hiring and economic reforms

President José Antonio Kast has defended his administration against criticisms regarding controversial public sector hires. Opponents have pointed to several individuals with limited professional experience receiving high salaries, such as a journalism student serving as a social media manager for the Ministry of the Interior and a recent graduate coordinating regional presidential delegations. Kast rejected accusations of a 'double standard' regarding his previous criticisms of the former administration, stating that the government's results over the first six months justify its management.

Kast also defended the return of former Sports Minister Natalia Duco to the government, despite her previous resignation following a controversy involving the misuse of public resources.

Separately, Juan Sutil, former president of the Confederation of Production and Commerce (CPC), provided an assessment of the administration's first six months. While Sutil noted that the economic foundations are being rebuilt through major reforms and the reactivation of public services, he warned of a growing political cost. He noted that public discontent remains high due to economic pressures, such as the rise in fuel prices, and a gap between legislative reforms and immediate consumer expectations.