Kast’s State of Exception Proposal Sparks Controversy Over Rights: 56% Oppose Meeting Restrictions and 54% Reject Mobility Limits

Original article: Estado de excepción de Kast divide cuando toca derechos: 56% rechaza restringir reuniones y 54% limitar desplazamiento

The latest edition of the Criteria Survey revealed that public opinion regarding the state of constitutional exception proposed by the government of José Antonio Kast is sharply divided on issues of rights, with 54% opposing any restrictions on freedom of movement and 56% against limitations on the right to assemble.

Through a constitutional reform, the far-right leader proposes a new state of constitutional exception, termed public security state of exception. This would allow him to declare an area under this regime with powers comparable to those existing in times of external war, yet without congressional approval for a span of 240 days, effectively lasting eight months.

During this period, Kast would be empowered to restrict rights such as assembly, personal freedom—including allowing arrests without a warrant—freedom of movement and association; intercept various types of communications, potentially including internet communications with modern technology; and requisition property, infringing on property rights. All of this could occur without a judicial order and is contingent upon the decision of the President and the supervising Carabineros authority.

This situation has sparked a heated debate about balancing security and democratic safeguards. The Criteria Survey conducted on August 23, 2026, asked 802 respondents aged 18 and older from socioeconomic levels ABCD across the country about their knowledge regarding the constitutional security reform, with a significant 89% stating they have seen, read, or heard at least something about this legislative project.

Regarding the measures included in the reform, 69% expressed support for the Armed Forces assisting Carabineros and the PDI for up to 240 days. However, some measures are more divisive. For instance, the interception of communications shows both 44% support and 44% opposition.

Moreover, 49% oppose the requisition of property, 54% reject restrictions on freedom of movement, and 56% stand against limiting the right to assemble.

According to the survey, conducted via an online panel, «only individuals identifying with the right are more inclined to support rather than oppose» the notion that this, or a future government, might implement these types of security measures.

The new edition of the Criteria Survey showed that Kast’s approval rating remained at 35%, stabilizing for four weeks within the range of 34% to 35%, while 52% disapprove of his presidency.