Chilean rights groups reject pardons for dictatorship-era criminals

Human rights and social organizations in Chile have delivered a formal letter to President José Antonio Kast at La Moneda Palace, expressing categorical rejection of proposed pardons for those responsible for crimes against humanity.

The protest comes as the Chilean Congress processes a legislative project promoted by right-wing factions that seeks to reduce sentences or release prisoners convicted of human rights violations during the military dictatorship (1973–1990). If passed, the law could benefit over 700 inmates, including 370 convicted of crimes against humanity.

Senator Fabiola Campillai, who participated in the delivery, criticized the state's treatment of perpetrators, specifically citing former police captain Patricio Maturana. Maturana, who was convicted of causing permanent blindness to Campillai by firing a tear gas canister at her face, is currently receiving prison benefits such as daily outings.

Additionally, organizations noted efforts by government supporters to grant pardons to military and police personnel involved in the 2019 social unrest. The upcoming September 6th memorial for victims of the Pinochet regime will be held under the slogan “No to pardons.”