From the border of Arica and Parinacota with Peru, José Antonio Kast delivered a firm message directed at immigrants who are in Chile irregularly. In a direct tone, Kast reminded them that there are still 111 days left to leave the country voluntarily, warning that this process offers advantages that will no longer exist once his potential government takes office.
Kast emphasized that those who choose to leave voluntarily will be able to take all their belongings without facing additional sanctions. However, he made it clear that those who ignore this call will face the strict application of Chilean law. “If you do not leave voluntarily, we will detain you, we will hold you, and we will expel you, and you will leave with only what you are wearing,” he stated.
The political leader insisted that immigrants must leave Chile through the same routes they entered and that, if they wish to return in the future, they must do so legally, with up-to-date documents and through the official border checkpoints. Otherwise, he assured, they will not be able to remain in Chile under any circumstances.
Kast also issued a warning to those who facilitate the transportation, supply, or support of people in an irregular migratory situation. According to him, these actions will also be subject to sanctions, as they —in his view— contribute to sustaining a problem that has generated tensions in matters of security and public order.
The message concluded with a call for cooperation during the period prior to the formation of a potential new government, whose goal —according to Kast— will be to “recover and rebuild Chile.” He urged migrants to act prudently, appealing to common sense, so that the voluntary departure process can take place in the most orderly and conflict-free way possible.
With these statements, José Antonio Kast seeks to reinforce his position on immigration control, one of the central pillars of his political agenda. His appearance at the border marks a new chapter in the ongoing debate on immigration, security, and sovereignty, which continues to occupy a central place in Chilean public discourse.
