President José Antonio Kast responded on Friday to criticism over his exchange with a woman and a minor in Villarrica. The episode occurred on Thursday during the delivery of land titles to Mapuche families.
Kast stated that he did not engage in any argument and only responded to a person filming to create tension. He said the aim was to avoid exposing children to such situations.
The woman called the president “demagogue” and “Nazi” after a minor refused to greet him. Kast told the child to grow up in freedom and that he should be studying. The mother was detained after an identity check revealed two arrest warrants for fraud.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro shared the video on X and criticized the style of governing. Kast replied that Petro’s comments were not appropriate and that Colombia is undergoing an electoral transition. Left-wing voices in Chile, such as Jeannette Jara and Lautaro Carmona, questioned the president’s tone.
Biminister Claudio Alvarado defended Kast and said he is a close person who receives affection. The president asked those attending public events to do so with good disposition.
