Chile's Boric Reflects on Leftist Politics Before Exit

The atmosphere inside the La Moneda palace offers a window into the president's mindset as his term winds down. In an office within the palace, a vinyl record by Leonard Cohen plays, specifically the album Death of a Ladies' Man. This musical choice contrasts with the historical weight of the location. The palace is situated only meters away from the spot where former President Salvador Allende delivered his final speech to the Chilean people on September 11, 1973, before dying during the military coup that initiated the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet.

Boric, who was born 13 years after the bombing of La Moneda, remains deeply aware of this history. On the walls of his office, alongside his collection of records, hangs a large graphic dedicated to the memory of those who disappeared during the military dictatorship. This personal connection to the past highlights the historical context of his presidency. However, this specific environment will soon change. On March 11, the office will be handed over to the incoming president, José Antonio Kast.

The upcoming transfer of power signifies a historic pivot for the Chilean government. For the first time since the return to democracy in 1990, the presidential palace will be led by a figure who openly supports Pinochet. This stands in stark contrast to Boric, who is an admirer of Allende and represents a vanguard of the political left in Latin America. The transition underscores the volatility of the political climate in the region.

Boric has been described as a rara avis—a rare bird—within his own political space. His approach to governance and his reflections on his time in office suggest a deep consideration of the challenges facing the left. As he prepares to leave the presidency, he has articulated a critical view of current leftist strategies, suggesting that a focus on blaming adversaries is a failing approach that leads to political dilution.

Despite leaving the presidency, Gabriel Boric is not stepping away from public life. The source indicates that he plans to continue his political engagement immediately following the transition. He will shift his focus to working within the opposition, maintaining a presence in the national conversation and legislative process.

Furthermore, Boric has not ruled out a return to the executive branch. He has suggested the possibility of presenting his candidacy again in four years. This indicates a long-term commitment to his political vision and a desire to continue shaping the future of Chile, even as the country's leadership takes a sharply different direction under the incoming administration.