Chilean President Calls for Plebiscite on New Constitution Drafted by Conservative Councilors

National Plebiscite Scheduled for December 17 to Decide on Potential Replacement for Pinochet-era Constitution; New Document Features Controversial Stances on Abortion and Prisoner Rights, Predicted to Face Public Resistance.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric has called for a national plebiscite on December 17, allowing citizens to decide if they want to replace the dictatorship-era constitution with a new charter largely drafted by conservative counsellors.
The new document contains controversial positions, such as protection of the life of the unborn, which might make abortion fully illegal in Chile, and the provision to grant house arrest to terminally ill prisoners who do not pose a threat to society.
Local leaders are opposing the new proposal, arguing it abolishes the tax on primary residences, a key state revenue source paid by the wealthiest. However, President Boric's government has committed to staying neutral in the debate.
Git passed by the Constitutional Council in a 33-17 vote, the proposed constitution has 17 chapters and 216 articles. If approved, Boric's government will work on its implementation; if rejected, the focus will remain on governing for the people's welfare.
Polls suggest the new document has little chance of approval, with approximately one-third of the population undecided. If the new constitution is rejected, the Pinochet-era document will remain in effect.