In response to the government's recent announcement of significant fuel price increases, leaders from Chile's three major municipal associations met Tuesday at La Moneda to voice criticisms and demand a social agenda. Meanwhile, 26 opposition mayors issued a strong statement highlighting impacts on residents, as the hikes of $370 for gasoline and $580 for diesel take effect Thursday.
Following Finance Minister Jorge Quiroz's Monday announcement of fuel price hikes tied to surging international oil prices from the ongoing Iran conflict, leaders from the Chilean Association of Municipalities (ACHM), the Association of Municipalities of Chile (AMUCH), and the Association of Rural Municipalities (AMUR) met Tuesday, March 24, at La Moneda with government advisor Alejandro Irarrázaval. They urged a broader social response beyond economic measures, with ACHM president Gustavo Alessandri calling for an urgent working table with mayors and the government to deliver quick solutions for residents. A group of 26 opposition mayors, including Karina Delfino (Quinta Normal), Tomás Vodanovic (Maipú), Claudia Pizarro (La Pintana), Matías Toledo (Puente Alto), and Claudio Castro (Renca), released a statement expressing 'deep concern' over effects on daily lives and municipalities, criticizing policies that burden working families. Claudio Castro noted on social media the cumulative challenges of pandemic, social unrest, climate, and security crises. Amid panic buying, communes like Lo Barnechea and Las Condes implemented contingency plans with police coordination. Felipe Alessandri (Lo Barnechea) called for calm, confirming no shortages, while Copec assured sufficient stock.
