Panelist Bárbara Figueroa Confronts Colleagues on ‘Tolerancia Cero’ Over Focus on Jadue, Sparks Response from Host
Santiago, Chile – A heated exchange unfolded on the Chilean television program Tolerancia Cero (Zero Tolerance) on September 2, 2025, as panelist Bárbara Figueroa sharply criticized her colleagues for repeatedly diverting discussion towards Daniel Jadue, a Communist Party figure, rather of focusing on the proposals of presidential candidate Jeannette Jara. The confrontation led to a moment of silence and a subsequent clarification from program host Mónica Rincón.
Figueroa, the former president of the CUT (Central Única de Trabajadores, Chile’s largest labor federation), expressed frustration wiht the panel’s preoccupation with Jadue. “Where is the debate about this? When are we discussing this?” she asked, referencing Jara’s policy proposals. The exchange occurred amidst a discussion where Figueroa felt the focus was misplaced, especially given the sensitive nature of the topics and public distrust in politics.
political scientist Daniel Mansuy attempted to downplay the emphasis on Jadue, stating, “Daniel Jadue’s noise is put by Alfredo [Joignant, another panelist]. I don’t even put it, Barbara.” Figueroa responded by emphasizing her duty to steer the conversation towards substantive policy debates.”I am saying that when one comes to a program to discuss such sensitive matters as the future of the population, being aware that politics does not enjoy the best prestige, my main work is to face the debate,” she stated. “I have a main duty, which is to put on the table that we want to discuss programmatic ideas to take care of essential challenges.”
Following a brief silence, Mónica Rincón intervened, reminding the panel, “We have asked at least four questions regarding programmatic topics.” The incident highlights ongoing tensions within Chilean political discourse regarding the balance between personality-driven narratives and substantive policy discussions, particularly as the contry approaches a presidential election.
