Chile's Senate approved by 32 votes in favor, 2 against and 3 abstentions a 30-day extension of the state of exception in La Araucanía Region and Arauco and Biobío provinces. Hours earlier, the Chamber of Deputies passed it with 105 in favor, 23 against and 21 abstentions. The measure, requested by President José Antonio Kast's administration, drew criticism for lacking a comprehensive plan after nearly four years.
The Chamber of Deputies approved the extension on the afternoon of April 21 with ministers of Segpres, Defense and Interior present. Interior Minister Claudio Alvarado justified it by its success in reducing violence, stressing the need for more police staffing and better tools. "We are not here today to celebrate these numbers," Alvarado said.
Defense Minister Fernando Barros stated the contingent has increased and a plan involving intelligence units aims to isolate violent actors, though the issue cannot be solved in 30 days. Public Security Minister Trinidad Steinert added it cannot be lifted due to insufficient carabineros and technological resources.
In the Senate, opposition came from Vanessa Kaiser (PNL) and Fabiola Campillai (independent), with abstentions from Diego Ibáñez, Beatriz Sánchez (Frente Amplio) and Rodolfo Carter (independent). Senators criticized the measure's normalization and called for a secret session for details. Deputy Gloria Naveillán (PNL) called the request "absolutely useless" for lacking military faculties.
Deputies like Eduardo Cretton (UDI) and Cristián Neira (Republican) backed it for its security results.
