Chile's Kast names new security minister in cabinet shuffle

SANTIAGO - Chilean President Jose Antonio Kast on Tuesday replaced the people who held two key roles in his government, naming Martin Arrau as security minister and Claudio Alvarado as spokesperson.

Alvarado, who is currently interior minister, will retain that portfolio alongside his new role. Arrau leaves his post as public works minister. That position will be taken over by Transport Minister Louis de Grange, who will now head both ministries.

Kast, who was sworn in two months ago, focused on security during his campaign, promising to clamp down on migration and crime while boosting economic growth through deregulation, spending cuts and market-friendly policies.

(Reporting by Ricardo Figueroa, Editing by Daina Beth Solomon)

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This story was originally published May 19, 2026 at 6:03 PM.