Chile"s President Boric pushes to repeal dictatorship-era amnesty law
- President Gabriel Boric announced plans to repeal an amnesty law that has protected military officers from prosecution for human rights abuses during Pinochet's dictatorship.
- The amnesty law, established in 1978, has been a significant barrier to justice, although some prosecutions have occurred through legal loopholes.
- Boric's efforts to repeal the law face challenges due to a lack of majority support in Congress and opposition from right-wing parties.
On September 11, 2023, Chile's President Gabriel Boric announced his commitment to repeal a longstanding amnesty law that has prevented the prosecution of crimes against humanity committed during General Augusto Pinochet's military dictatorship. This announcement was made during a speech commemorating the 51st anniversary of the coup that led to Pinochet's rule, which lasted from 1973 to 1990. Boric emphasized the importance of democracy and human rights, urging action to address the injustices of the past. The amnesty law, originally decreed by Pinochet in 1978, has shielded military officers from accountability for the torture and killings of thousands of political opponents. Despite the amnesty, some prosecutions have occurred due to legal loopholes exploited by investigative judges. However, the political landscape remains fragmented, with Boric's left-wing coalition lacking a majority in Congress, making the repeal uncertain. Efforts to overturn the amnesty have faced significant opposition from right-wing parties, which have historically blocked such initiatives. The stalled repeal bill was first introduced in 2014 by former President Michelle Bachelet, highlighting the ongoing struggle for justice in Chile. Boric's administration aims to revive this bill, reflecting a broader regional trend towards accountability for human rights abuses. The challenges faced by Boric's government underscore the complexities of addressing historical injustices in a country still grappling with the legacy of dictatorship. The outcome of this initiative could have profound implications for Chile's legal and political landscape, as well as for the victims and families seeking justice.