Minister of Security Martin Arrau called for calm amid criticism of the security constitutional reform, asserting that "the Constitution has been modified at least once a year on matters of security." The remarks came after he participated in a new police committee meeting at the Ministry of Security. Arrau responded directly to concerns raised by Guillermo Ramirez, leader of the UDI party, who warned that the proposed text lacks public support. Ramirez argued that the reforms introduce exceptions to general principles, potentially weakening the Constitution and harming institutional integrity. He stated that under current conditions, the UDI cannot support security-related constitutional reforms because they damage institutionalism. Arrau urged patience and prudence, emphasizing that the government does not seek to force approval of the reform. He noted that multiple constitutional amendments have already been made on security issues annually, suggesting that the current proposal aligns with this pattern. He acknowledged that the final version of the reform has yet to be released, noting that lawmakers have received drafts that are no longer the definitive text. "I would expect, call for calm to have a more informed opinion," he said. He added that while he takes Ramirez's criticisms seriously, there is no conflict between institutional strength and increased security measures. Senator Arturo Squella, president of the Republican Party, expressed skepticism toward Ramirez’s public concerns. He suggested that Ramirez shared his apprehensions before seeing the actual text. "It surprised me that he voiced these concerns without having the text in front of him," Squella said during an interview with Radio Infinita. He explained that he had discussed the issue via messages with Ramirez and found his worries legitimate but premature. "The concern he has is in line with what I imagined, something legitimate that requires special caution," he said. Squella emphasized that the UDI's stance on security matters is crucial, and that the party will continue working with Ramirez to clarify the reform’s contents once all legislative proposals are introduced. Squella also disagreed with the UDI’s assessment of the reform’s risks. He pointed out that circulating an outdated draft caused confusion. "There was much harm done by circulating a very old draft that lacked the other side of the equation," he said. He stressed that legal norms are interconnected and should be considered together. This sentiment reflects growing internal tensions within conservative parties over the reform, which has sparked debates even among right-wing factions. The reform, part of President Jose Antonio Kast’s broader agenda on security and organized crime, aims to strengthen law enforcement powers and streamline judicial processes. However, critics argue that it undermines constitutional principles by allowing exceptions that could weaken democratic safeguards. Supporters, including Arrau, maintain that the reform is necessary to address rising crime rates and improve public safety. They assert that the process allows for parliamentary input and refinement, ensuring that the final document reflects broad consensus. As the reform moves forward, political dynamics remain fluid. While some leaders, like Ramirez, express reservations, others, such as Squella, advocate for cautious optimism. The upcoming release of the final text will likely spark further discussion and potential opposition. For now, the focus remains on preparing for the legislative phase, where the reform will face scrutiny and possible amendments before being enacted into law.
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