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Original article: Plan de recortes de Kast incluye al menos 40 programas que transgreden sus promesas de campaña electoral

Kast Violates Campaign Promises by Cutting at Least 40 Programs Proposed by Treasury

An article published by CIPER Chile, by Josefina Rochna and Francisco González Valdebenito, reveals that at least 40 of the 401 programs proposed for adjustments or discontinuation by the Ministry of Finance directly contradict campaign promises made by President José Antonio Kast.

On April 24, 142 programs suggested for potential discontinuation or reformulation were revealed by Finance, led by Jorge Quiroz. Additionally, 260 plans face cuts exceeding 15%, including the Universal Guaranteed Pension (PGU). This comes despite Kast’s assurance during the campaign: “We will not cut any existing social benefits.”

In the area of childhood, the proposed measures clash with key promises. Kast previously stated: “Equality of opportunity begins in early childhood education. We aim to at least double that access.” However, the Finance Ministry proposed a reduction of at least 15% for the Conventional Nursery and Early Childhood Programs, which support vulnerable families’ access to early education services.

In education, the President was clear during the Anatel debate: “We will not roll back any social rights, none. Not in university tuition-free education nor in the PGU.” Nevertheless, the budget for tuition-free education is set to be reduced, and the School Nutrition Program by Junaeb has been recommended for discontinuation, despite Kast’s pledge to strengthen it.

Regarding security, the Finance Ministry proposed discontinuing the Violence-Free Streets Plan and the Organized Crime Prevention Program, along with reducing the National Municipal Security System. Kast had committed: “No more streets controlled by gangs, no more territories governed by narcos.” He had also called for resources to be allocated to municipalities for the removal of illegal commerce.

Finally, the so-called “Golden Generation Plan” for older adults is also impacted. Out of six active initiatives, five will face cuts and one will be discontinued, including the ELEAM Subsidy Fund, essential for expanding coverage. Minister Quiroz defended the measure, stating: “What we are doing is seeking efficiency and preventing social fraud or wasteful spending.”

View the full publication. Access the link from CIPER Chile:

Budget Cuts: 40 of the 401 Programs Proposed by Finance Clash with Kast’s Campaign Promises

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