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Original article: Ministro de Hacienda es el protagonista de la tradicional quema de Judas en Valparaíso

The effigy of Jorge Quiroz was burned in Playa Ancha amid slogans protesting collusion and dissatisfaction with the country’s economic trajectory.

On the night of Sunday, April 5th, thousands gathered in Plaza Waddington to participate in the traditional burning of Judas, a folk justice ritual that this year targeted the economic cabinet of José Kast. Amid chants and a socially critical atmosphere, the effigy representing Minister Jorge Quiroz marked the conclusion of Holy Week festivities on Cerro Playa Ancha.

The event, blending religious tradition with political satire, was highlighted by a sign reading «Stop Collusion» which hung from the state secretary’s figure. Attendees expressed their discontent with the government’s recent financial measures, linking the image of the minister to rising fuel prices and the controversial management of public resources that have characterized the current administration.

Unlike previous years, security around these cultural rituals was scrutinized due to the current political tension in the country. However, the Playa Ancha community successfully maintained the family-friendly essence of the day, featuring live music and children’s games, affirming that the plaza remains a key space for local free expression.

This practice of burning public figures is not new to the port and often reflects the prevailing social discontent. In past years, figures such as former mayor Cathy Barriga or even the current president in 2018 were chosen by the public, demonstrating that this tradition persists as a questioning tool against those in political and economic power.

Valparaíso’s mayor, Camila Nieto, emphasized the significance of these events in revitalizing local identity and the regional economy. For locals, the burning of Judas represents an annual opportunity to symbolize rejection of social injustices, transforming dissatisfaction into a collective act of purification through fire.

The event concluded without major incidents, underscoring that despite attempts to silence criticism of the current administration, Valparaíso’s popular traditions continue to serve as a refuge for cultural resistance. The image of Minister Quiroz reduced to ashes stands as evidence of a Chile watching with distrust over the decisions made within the offices of La Moneda.

La entrada Finance Minister Becomes Center of Controversy at Traditional Judas Burning Ceremony in Valparaíso se publicó primero en El Ciudadano.