Chile Interior Minister Carolina Tohá has resigned to run for president, marking her entry as a candidate from the centre-left. She emphasizes the need for her generation to seek leadership. Tohá faces challenges, including low polling numbers and a daunting political landscape dominated by opposition candidates. The presidential election occurs on November 16, followed by a potential run-off on December 14.
Carolina Tohá, the Chilean Interior Minister, has resigned to run for president in the upcoming elections. This decision highlights her entry as a seasoned politician in the centre-left realm. Tohá presented her resignation to President Gabriel Boric, asserting it’s time for her generation to pursue top leadership roles.
“The time has come for me to undertake another political battle, which is to compete for the presidency,” Tohá stated, reflecting on her political journey filled with victories and defeats. Chile’s centre-left faces sluggish candidate selection, allowing opposition figures to capture early polling advantages.
Boric, unable to seek re-election, has wished Tohá success in maintaining the government’s political alliance continuity. He emphasized the importance of “competitive primary elections” within the left. Tohá’s position will be assumed by Álvaro Elizalde, the Secretary General of the Presidency.
The delay in announcing her candidacy poses risks; a recent survey indicated that only 1.9% of respondents support Tohá, significantly trailing front-runners like Conservative Evelyn Matthei with 24.3%.
Despite her resume as a minister and former mayor, Tohá’s popularity has diminished due to perceived shortcomings in addressing rising crime rates. A February poll showed 59% disapproval of her performance following drastic incidents and criticisms surrounding her leadership, particularly following a high-profile resignation of an undersecretary involved in legal issues.
The presidential election’s first round is set for November 16, with a potential run-off on December 14, intensifying the urgency for Tohá to bolster her candidacy.
Carolina Tohá’s resignation signals her serious intent to run for president, though she enters a challenging race facing low initial support. Her criticism over crime management and late entry in the campaign may hinder her prospects against experienced opposition. With election dates approaching, her ability to galvanize support will prove critical for her ambitions.
Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar
