There is in Chile, in the most varied columns of opinion, between politicians and citizens of all parties, on television, in newspapers and on radio, the settled belief that we all want peace in our country, after experiencing the violent process beginning on 18 October and continuing to date.
Despite this cry for peace, and the obvious need we have as a democratic country to end violence, one wonders whether this supposed flag of unity is truly subscribed by all.
It is clear that violence has remained active on the streets, and the fight against carabineros remains sustained and permanent, so the claim that “we all want peace” is not a generalization that can continue to be sustained.
In this context, we can identify several groups that do not want or seek peace, but instead advocate chaos as a means or as an end; thus the anarchist groups, the famous “first line”, the paramilitaries such as the FPMR, who announced their revival; organizations such as aces; and the Communist party with its youth, have been amusing in demonstrating – with their words and deeds – that violence is the valid method of manifesting their discontent and anger, nullifying the basis of the rule of law on which all republics rest.
Thus, by increasing social polarization, new groups will gradually be added that will not be satisfied with peace, they are all those harmed by this revolt: all those who have lost business, who have lost jobs, the relatives of carabinieri who have seen their loved ones risk their lives day by day, people who have not been able to rest in their neighborhoods for months, all the young people who have not been able to continue their studies with peace of mind, those who have been violent in marches, and even relatives of those who have lost their lives, such as the unfortunate death of trucker Juan Barrios. All of them will join the ranks of those who before seeking a peace arranged and half-hearted, like that of a plebiscite without constitutional legitimacy, will first seek justice, justice that a simple rejection or approval will not be enough to remedy the pain that have had to experience because of the insecurity that Chile is experiencing. Justice that if it does not come, can even become more violent to the extent that our authorities are unable to find those responsible.
We cannot, as a society, allow violence to scale. Statements to the rostrum have been sufficient, and inadequate concrete actions, it is clear that the country’s government must change its strategy to provide more security for people. That’s clear, there’s twits left over and order is urgent.
The content poured into this opinion column is the sole responsibility of its author, and does not necessarily reflect the editorial line or position of El Mostrador.
