Chile's government has submitted eight constitutional amendments to the Senate as part of President José Antonio Kast's agenda against organised crime and terrorism, seeking urgent legislative debate within 15 days.
The centrepiece is a new state of exception lasting up to 120 days, renewable once, that would allow authorities to restrict movement, assembly, and association while intercepting communications and seizing assets in areas affected by criminal groups. Security Minister Martín Arrau said the measure targets deep, temporary interventions in zones where organisations such as the Tren de Aragua operate. The package also introduces lifetime bans on holding public office and blocks prison benefits for 15 years for those convicted of terrorism or organised crime offences.
The initiative faces political headwinds: the UDI party withdrew its support over a clause suspending social benefits for convicts, while a Criteria poll shows Kast's disapproval exceeds 55%, even as specific measures draw broad public backing.