Chile’s ex-President Sebastian Pinera, 74, died in a helicopter crash in the south, stated his office. It is heartbreaking and difficult for many to believe the news.
According to Chile’s emergency agency Senapred, four individuals were on board the crashed helicopter. The agency reported that three survived with injuries.
Chile’s Interior Minister Carolina Toha confirmed the recovery of Pinera’s body by rescue services and announced the government’s intention to declare a period of national mourning.
“Toha stated in televised remarks, ‘President Pinera governed us and we will remember the way he gave and dedicated his life to public service,'” according to local media.
Images from the crash site at Lago Ranco depicted heavy rains and wind. Argentina’s presidency extended condolences to Pinera’s family in a statement.
His legacy is tainted by violent police repression in October 2019 against protesters rallying against Chile’s education, health, and pension systems. Pinera, renowned in Chile as a prosperous businessman, saw his first term marked by rapid economic growth but struggled to connect with the evolving societal landscape.
Both of Pinera’s presidencies were characterized by persistent protests. During his first term, students demanded education reform, while his second term witnessed broader and often violent protests against inequality. The government eventually committed to drafting a new constitution in response to the unrest.
Former Argentine President Mauricio Macri expressed his sorrow at the news of Pinera’s passing, describing him as “a good person, committed like no one else to Chile and to the values of freedom and democracy in Latin America.”
