World

Camilo Escalona, former president of the Socialist Party of Chile, dies at 71

The Chilean government has declared an official mourning period for the historic political leader who passed away at the age of 71.

5 September 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Camilo Escalona, former president of the Socialist Party of Chile, dies at 71 — Photo: portalbcn · Flickr · BY-SA

Camilo Escalona, former president of the Socialist Party of Chile, has passed away at the age of 71. Escalona was a prominent political leader who served in the Senate from 2012 to 2013 and whose political activity primarily took place in Congress after the return of democracy in 1990. According to various sources, Chilean President José Antonio Kast expressed his condolences to Escalona via social media.

Kast's government has declared an official mourning period for his death, which will take place on September 5 and 6. This measure means that flags on public buildings will be flown at half-mast and festive official events will be canceled during these days.

During this period, tributes are being organized for the socialist politician, whose remains will be transferred to the Senate on the day of his farewell. The news of his passing has been reported by various media outlets, highlighting his role in Chilean politics.

In general, Escalona lived in exile after the coup d'état in 1973 and never held a ministerial position or ran for the presidency, although he was a fervent defender of socialist principles and democracy in Chile.

The shock of his death has been felt across various sectors of Chilean society, reflecting the significance of his figure in the recent political history of the country.

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