Cabinet reshuffle reduces female representation to 36.4%, sparking political criticism

A recent adjustment in President José Antonio Kast’s administration has reignited debate over gender equity in public leadership, as a ministerial replacement reduced women’s presence in the national cabinet to 36.4%. As detailed in political coverage by La Tercera on Kast’s cabinet gender breakdown, the departure of Sports Minister Natalia Duco and the subsequent appointment of Francisco Riveros shifted the executive balance to 14 male ministers and eight female ministers across the 22 government portfolios.

The adjustment follows earlier ministerial departures, drawing sharp criticism from political opponents and gender equality advocates. Critics argue that decreasing female representation in cabinet positions undermines broader national goals regarding gender parity and equal decision-making in public governance.

International analysis from Prensa Latina on Chile’s ministerial adjustments notes that this modification represents the second major cabinet restructuring within five months of the current administration. As regional and domestic political actors evaluate the executive team’s new dynamic, the reduction of women in key cabinet posts remains a central point of political friction in Santiago.