Chile’s unpopular outgoing president delivers solitary farewell

Facing widespread criticism, Sebastian Pinera’s low popularity could affect upcoming presidential vote, analysts say.

Santiago, Chile – Chilean President Sebastian Pinera began his last address to the nation this week by apologising to families hit by an economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. “Many people feel anger and frustration because they did not always receive the help they needed at the right time,” he told lawmakers on Tuesday evening, surrounded by the imposing walls of the Senate Assembly Hall at the Congress building in Valparaiso. Due to the pandemic, only a small audience – all of his cabinet members and some leaders of political parties – were present for his two-hour farewell speech, delivered less than six months before elections will usher in a new president.