Chilean Interior Minister Carolina Tohá has resigned to run for president in the upcoming election, a move that introduces a seasoned centre-left figure into the race. Her late entry poses challenges, as recent polling shows her trailing behind several competitors. Tohá, despite her political experience, faces criticism regarding her crime-fighting strategies and public approval ratings.
Carolina Tohá, the Interior Minister of Chile, has announced her resignation to pursue a presidential candidacy in the upcoming election. This decision signifies the entry of a seasoned centre-left leader into the presidential race, indicating a pivotal shift in Chilean politics as she aims for the nation’s highest office after presenting her resignation to President Gabriel Boric.
In comments made after the cabinet reshuffle, Tohá indicated that it was time for her generation to vie for leadership, stating, “The time has come for me to undertake another political battle, which is to compete for the presidency.” She acknowledged her mixed history in politics, referencing both victories and defeats.
The process of identifying candidates for the election has been sluggish among Chile’s centre-left parties, enabling opposition candidates to lead in early polling. President Boric is barred from seeking a consecutive term due to local laws, which has fueled speculation about possible candidacies, including that of former president Michelle Bachelet, who may reconsider a third term.
During her farewell, Boric extended his best wishes to Tohá, emphasizing the necessity for “competitive primary elections” within the left as stability becomes crucial for the government’s political alliance. Tohá has been succeeded in her ministerial role by Álvaro Elizalde, Secretary General of the Presidency.
Despite her political stature, Tohá’s late entry into the electoral race presents challenges; a recent poll indicated her support at only 1.9%, significantly trailing behind her competitors, including conservative frontrunner Evelyn Matthei at 24.3%. Former president Bachelet, despite currently not running, maintains a popularity rating of 15.9%.
Tohá has had a distinguished political career, having served in various roles including minister, deputy, and mayor. Her tenure in Boric’s administration focused on addressing crime and responding to crises such as a nationwide blackout. However, public sentiment regarding her performance remains critical, with about 59% disapproving of her handling of crime and violence. Notably, she has encountered backlash over her response time in addressing serious allegations against a former subordinate.
The first round of the presidential elections is scheduled for November 16, with a possible run-off on December 14 if necessary.
– Matthew Malinowski, Bloomberg
In summary, Carolina Tohá’s resignation marks a significant moment in Chile’s political landscape as she seeks the presidency in a challenging electoral environment. Facing low poll numbers and strong opposition, her established political history and experience will be tested. As the November 16 election date approaches, the dynamics among candidates, notably the potential resurgence of Michelle Bachelet, will further shape this political narrative. Tohá’s trajectory and the overall electoral outcome remain to be seen in the coming weeks.
Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar
