The damming of the Biobìo is a pivotal conflict for Chile - a battle between new democracy and the shady world of Pinochet's fascism. When civilian government returned in 1990 a law was passed which allowed the indigenous Mapuche people threatened by the dam to register claims. Yet most people were simply too scared to complain. "They're afraid in case the government gets angry with them [and] sends the military to smash them." But a brave few are testing out the new law. Two lawyers fight it out over a key parcel of land. They represent two sides of Chile's past. The Mapuche's lawyer: a former exile and prisoner of Pinochet's regime. The power company's lawyer: a founding member of the firm. It's a tough fight. Many of today's senators, judges and military officers were hand selected by Pinochet. Attending the 24th anniversary of his ascension to power it's clear that his influence is intact. Here he's getting more medals while a military band salute his honour. As he still receives support from home, the Mapuche lawyer neatly sums it up: "The government of Pinochet ended, but not the power of Pinochet." This report offers a look into the early days of democracy in 90's Chile.

Produced by ABC Australia