Colombian President Gustavo Petro Condemns Chile"s Kast as Fascist

On December 15, 2025, Colombian President Gustavo Petro publicly condemned the recent election victory of ultraconservative candidate José Antonio Kast in Chile. Petro"s remarks reflect a growing concern over the rise of far-right politics in Latin America, which he characterized as a resurgence of fascism. His statements have sparked significant discourse regarding the implications of Kast"s presidency for the region.

Key Details

Gustavo Petro, who has been serving as Colombia"s president since August 2022, expressed his dismay at Kast"s election, labeling him a "Nazi" and referring to his political ideology as "death incarnate." Petro"s comments were made in the context of a broader critique of the political climate in Latin America, where he believes that authoritarian figures are gaining traction among voters. He stated, "Fascism is advancing," highlighting his fears about the implications of such political shifts.

Petro"s remarks included a historical reference to Chile"s former dictator, Augusto Pinochet, who ruled from 1973 to 1990. He lamented that Pinochet had to impose his regime by force but expressed even greater sorrow that contemporary voters are choosing leaders he equates to Pinochet. Petro"s statement, "they are children of Hitler, and Hitler kills people," underscores his view that Kast"s election represents a dangerous ideological lineage that threatens democratic values.

In his address, Petro emphasized the need for resistance against what he termed "the devil against life," suggesting that the people of Latin America are well-versed in opposing such authoritarianism. His comments resonate with a historical context in which many Latin American nations have experienced military coups and dictatorships, leading to widespread human rights abuses.

Background

José Antonio Kast, a former congressman and leader of the far-right Republican Party of Chile, won the presidential election held on December 14, 2025. His campaign has been marked by a strong nationalist and conservative agenda, which includes calls for stricter immigration policies and a return to traditional values. Kast"s victory has raised alarms among leftist leaders in the region, who fear that his administration could roll back social progress and exacerbate inequalities.

Petro"s condemnation of Kast is not an isolated incident; it reflects a broader trend among leftist leaders in Latin America who are increasingly vocal against the rise of right-wing populism. This political dynamic has been observed in various countries, where leaders such as Brazil"s Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Argentina"s Javier Milei have also expressed concerns about the implications of far-right governance.

What"s Next

The election of José Antonio Kast is likely to have significant implications for Chilean society and its relationships with neighboring countries. As Kast prepares to take office, observers will be closely monitoring his policy decisions and their impact on human rights, social equity, and regional stability. Petro"s comments may galvanize opposition movements within Chile and across Latin America, as leftist leaders seek to unite against what they perceive as a rising tide of authoritarianism.

In light of these developments, it is crucial to remain informed about the evolving political landscape in Latin America. For more insights into related political dynamics, see our recent developments in U.S. politics and how they may intersect with Latin American affairs.