Kast vs. Boric: Tensions Rise Over Chile’s Transition & China Ties

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Chile’s incoming president, José Antonio Kast and current President Gabriel Boric are navigating a strained transition of power following a dispute over information sharing, raising questions about the future of cooperation between the two political leaders. The disagreement centers on a Chinese data cable project and has led Kast to suspend all contact for the handover process.

The dispute began after Kast accused Boric of misleading him regarding the details of a Chinese-backed submarine data cable project. Kast demanded a retraction from Boric, alleging he was not properly informed about the initiative. Boric, though, maintained that he had mentioned the project to Kast during a February 18 phone call.

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Kast subsequently announced the suspension of all transition processes, stating he no longer trusted the information being provided by the outgoing administration. The situation is considered particularly tense, even when compared to the 1990 transition following the return of democracy to Chile after the Pinochet era.

While Kast acknowledged the topic was mentioned during their phone conversation on February 18, he felt it wasn’t adequately addressed. Despite the disagreement, observers note Kast has maintained a conciliatory tone, suggesting a desire to resolve the issue.

In an effort to move forward, Boric announced the creation of a digital “government transition platform” to provide public access to official information. This move allows Boric to fulfill his constitutional obligations as his term nears its end, while also allowing Kast to stand firm on his principles. The development underscores the delicate balance of power as Chile prepares for a change in leadership.

The incoming president may face a unique situation, potentially mirroring the Yerkes-Dodson law, which suggests moderate anxiety before a significant event can improve performance, while excessive anxiety can hinder it. Kast’s early focus on issues like the data cable and a proposed “humanitarian corridor” for migrants – which raised concerns in Peru and Ecuador – suggests a proactive approach, but also a potential for early challenges.

“Boric acabará su mandato como la institucionalidad obliga; y José Antonio no quebrará su palabra ni retirará el guante ni se tragará un sapo. Quedará, eso sí, como el presidente electo con angustia anticipatoria”.

Kast’s insistence on the “humanitarian corridor” – described as a “migratory corridor” – from the border with Arica to Venezuela, prompted neighboring countries to reinforce their own borders. The dispute over the cable project has been further complicated by U.S. Sanctions against three Chilean officials following the announcement of the Chinese investment, and Kast’s subsequent trip to Miami on Friday for a summit organized by Donald Trump aimed at strengthening ties with regional right-wing allies. This move could be interpreted as a clear alignment with the former U.S. President.

China is Chile’s primary trading partner, with 37% of its exports going to the country. The United States is the second-largest export destination, and is now seeking to solidify its position as a key continental ally. Washington moved quickly to address the cable project, viewing it as easier to halt a project in its early stages than one already underway, such as the Chancay port project.

a potential alternative submarine cable project, developed through an agreement between Chile and Google, may offer a solution to appease U.S. Concerns. Kast, facing mounting pressures, is now tasked with balancing relationships with both global powers. The announcement could influence future diplomatic talks and regional alliances.