Justice Minister Rabat Discusses Pardon Requests
On September 13, 2026, Justice Minister Fernando Rabat announced that his office has received more than 100 requests for pardons, the majority of which pertain to incidents from 1973. During an interview on Tele13’s Mesa Central, Rabat highlighted the significance of these requests, stating, "The number of applications is considerable, currently exceeding 100. We are organizing the files, and there are also a significant number on my desk awaiting analysis." This situation arises in the context of ongoing discussions surrounding justice and historical accountability in Chile.
Process and Deliberation on Pardon Requests
When asked about the timeline for reviewing these requests, Minister Rabat clarified that there is no set deadline mandated by law, nor has he imposed one on himself. He emphasized that the review process requires careful consideration to achieve a conviction based on the merits of each case. "Acquiring that conviction is always a slow process, as it is essential for us to approach each request with the necessary diligence, whether we ultimately support or reject it," he explained. While some applications do relate to recent social unrest, Rabat noted that such instances are few. He confirmed that he is currently the sole authority analyzing these requests, and they have yet to be reviewed by President Kast. The approach will be case-by-case, respecting the findings from the administrative files.
In light of the recent commemorations of the events of September 11, 1973, Minister Rabat defended the government's decision not to hold any formal ceremonies, explaining that it is crucial to convey to the public that the administration is committed to addressing current issues year-round. "Today, Chileans face numerous challenges and needs, and our focus must be on finding solutions," he stated. He also commented on the importance of balancing recognition of historical events with the pressing needs of the populace, suggesting that while such commemorations can generate valuable discussions, they may distract from the government's primary responsibilities.
In a related matter, Rabat remarked on the unprecedented decision by the Supreme Court to remove 11 judges for improper use of medical leave, reinforcing the need for ethical integrity within the judiciary. He referenced the commitment established by President Gloria Ana Chevesich to uphold high ethical standards within the judicial system, emphasizing that collective accountability is essential for all members of the legal profession.
As reported by emol.com.
