In the face of escalating protest in Chile, President Sebastian Piñera on Tuesday (October 23rd) proposed a series of measures aimed at easing slings, including the introduction of a guaranteed minimum wage, the rise in pensions and the stabilization of pensions. electricity costs.
The center-right leader, who some of the protestors call for resignation, said he hoped to turn the violent protests into an "opportunity" for Chile, "make up for lost time" and "take concrete steps" to end economic inequalities that fuel anger within the country.
"It is true that the problems have been accumulating for decades and that the various governments have not been able to recognize the full extent of the situation," Sebastian Piñera said during a speech from the presidential palace on Tuesday evening. . "I acknowledge and apologize for this lack of vision," he added.
New events expected
At least 15 people were killed and 5,400 were arrested during demonstrations that began after the announcement of rising ticket prices this month, resulting in scenes of chaos in the capital Santiago where the state emergency was declared and a curfew was introduced last weekend.
New demonstrations are expected Wednesday, as well as a general strike in solidarity with the protesters that will take part officials, teachers or employees of Codelco, the world's largest copper producer.
With Reuters