Nigeria TV Info — NEWS REPORT

Chile Elects Right-Wing Hardliner José Antonio Kast as President in Historic Shift

Chile has elected right-wing conservative José Antonio Kast as its next president, marking the country’s most significant political shift to the right since the end of military rule in 1990.

Kast secured a decisive victory in Sunday’s presidential runoff election, winning 58 per cent of the vote against government-backed leftist candidate Jeannette Jara, who polled 42 per cent. Jara conceded defeat shortly after the official results were announced.

The outcome reflects growing voter concerns over rising crime, insecurity and migration, issues that dominated the election campaign. Kast, a long-time law-and-order advocate, built his political profile by promising tougher security policies and stricter border controls.

Throughout the campaign, Kast pledged to strengthen border security, deploy the military to crime-prone areas, and deport migrants living in Chile illegally, policies that resonated strongly with voters seeking firmer action from government.

Political analysts say Kast’s victory signals a major turning point in Chilean politics, as the country moves away from the centre-left dominance that has shaped governance for much of the post-dictatorship era. His presidency is expected to usher in tougher domestic policies, particularly on security, migration and public order.

Kast is set to assume office amid high public expectations and deep political divisions, with both supporters and critics watching closely how his hardline agenda will reshape Chile’s future.