Chile's Communist Party has achieved a historic milestone with Jeannette Jara securing the left's presidential nomination, becoming the first communist candidate chosen by a broad political coalition in the country's history.

Jara, who represents the hardline left-wing of President Gabriel Boric’s broad governing coalition, dominated the June 29 primary election with 60.31% of the vote, decisively defeating former Interior Minister Carolina Toha of the Democratic Socialism party, who garnered 27.91% with 98.27% of ballots counted. The primary was exclusive to Boric's centre-left coalition, as right-wing candidates opted to bypass primaries and compete directly in the November 16 general election.

"The important thing is that by the end of the day, the progressive sectors are going to be behind a single candidate," Boric was quoted by Reuters as saying following his vote in Punta Arenas, highlighting the strategic importance of left-wing unity.

Turnout proved notably low, with just over 1mn voters participating from an eligible pool of 15mn, according to AFP. The primary was open to coalition party members and unaffiliated voters.

“I call on everyone to join efforts and face the far right with the broadest possible political and social unity,” Jara told reporters during a press conference.

“I’m convinced that differences within the left are not a problem — they’re an opportunity."

Meanwhile, the political right has chosen a fragmented approach, with a slew of candidates, including ultra-conservative José Antonio Kast and centre-right Evelyn Matthei, expected to compete in November.

The left's decision to unite behind a single nominee could swing the election in its favour, given that the right's vote is set to be divided between several candidates. Still, if no candidate receives over 50% of the vote, the right may increase its chances of securing victory, particularly after Kast emerged as a frontrunner in recent presidential election polling.