Chile’s Constitutional Council unveiled a second draft of the national constitution, which is notably more liberal than its predecessor.
The Council holds a conservative majority.
The aim is to replace the 1981 Constitution. This old constitution came from the military rule of Augusto Pinochet.
Many criticize it for supporting social inequality and privatizing essential services.
Unlike the first reform attempt, this effort includes 24 specialists. Congress selected them. Politicians on the Council were also publicly elected.
Currently, the Council has 50 members. Of these, 22 are conservatives, 11 are centrists, 16 are progressives, and one is indigenous.
Local media shed light on the new draft’s contents. One key point is forming a federal entity for investigating high-level crimes.
Also, a coordinating council will assist the public prosecutor’s office.
Furthermore, Article 24 is new and significant. The state must secure access to healthcare, housing, and other essential services.
This is a departure from the older Pinochet-era constitution.
Central Bank Powers
The Central Bank’s powers have also been debated. In this draft, the Bank is an autonomous body.
It will only operate with other financial institutions.
Experts will review the draft next. Then, by October 16, the Council will make a decision. A public vote is set for December 17.
Recent surveys indicate public sentiment. About 41% want to keep the old constitution. Only 19% support the new draft.
The initial draft from 2022 faced rejection. It was the first in Chile to advocate for gender parity in public roles.
However, 61.87% voted against it in a referendum.
Experts say the rejection was due to the draft’s lack of clarity. Additionally, the president’s declining popularity likely played a role.
In summary, Chile is at a crossroads in constitutional reform. Various challenges lie ahead. The new draft must clear many hurdles before becoming law.
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