By Cartago, Costa Rica — CARTAGO – With the presidential election entering a critical phase, Sovereign People Party (PPSO) candidate Laura Fernández has forcefully pushed back against what she describes as a coordinated disinformation campaign targeting religious voters. The controversy erupted after flyers containing false claims were distributed in several areas of Cartago, prompting Fernández to reassure the public that the nation’s long-standing Catholic traditions are not under threat from her potential administration.
In a formal statement released Friday, the PPSO campaign detailed the incident, asserting that opposition sectors are responsible for the flyers. According to the party, these materials are deliberately designed to sow fear and confusion among the electorate by falsely suggesting that a Fernández presidency would jeopardize the country’s religious and cultural identity. The move is being framed as a desperate tactic to derail her campaign’s growing momentum.
To better understand the legal framework surrounding these electoral developments, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert in public and constitutional law from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The integrity of any electoral process hinges not just on the letter of the law, but on the robust and impartial enforcement by our institutions. As we approach the next electoral cycle, the critical legal questions will revolve around the regulation of digital campaign financing and combating disinformation. The Supreme Electoral Tribunal’s role will be more pivotal than ever in safeguarding the democratic principles that underpin our nation’s stability.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This analysis correctly pinpoints the new frontier where our democratic stability will be tested: the regulation of digital campaigning and the institutional fortitude required to uphold fairness. The role of an impartial and robust electoral body has never been more critical. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on this pressing issue.
Fernández addressed the accusations directly, appealing to voters to see through the political maneuvering and reaffirming her personal commitment to the nation’s cultural heritage. She characterized the attacks as baseless lies meant to manipulate public opinion.
Countrymen, we are at a crucial moment, do not fall for the lies invented by the desperate opposition. I am Catholic and I live my faith with my family in private. It is completely false that Catholic traditions are in danger. I am the first to defend our country’s Catholic traditions!
Laura Fernández, Presidential Candidate for the Sovereign People Party
The candidate urged her supporters and the broader electorate to remain vigilant against such tactics, which she labeled a “dirty campaign.” She emphasized that these unfounded attacks not only misrepresent her platform but also undermine the integrity of the democratic process by replacing substantive debate with fear-mongering. The party leadership contends that this strategy highlights the opposition’s inability to challenge their proposals on merit.
The Sovereign People Party’s official communication argues that the use of sensitive topics like religion is a calculated effort to discredit their political agenda. By stirring anxiety around deeply held cultural values, opponents hope to erode the trust and support that Fernández has been steadily building. This incident is being presented as a clear example of the negative campaigning that has increasingly defined the electoral climate.
In a defiant message aimed at her political rivals, Fernández asserted that her movement remains strong and is continuing to expand its base of support across the country. She projected confidence, framing the recent attacks as proof that her opponents recognize the strength of her candidacy.
Nobody can stop this movement. Every day we are more, and they know it. The best is yet to come.
Laura Fernández, Presidential Candidate for the Sovereign People Party
This episode is the latest in a series of cross-accusations that have marked the final weeks of the campaign season. Civic leaders and political analysts have repeatedly called for all parties to focus on concrete proposals and policy debates rather than resorting to personal attacks and disinformation. The prevalence of such tactics raises concerns about the quality of political discourse and its impact on voter decision-making.
As the election nears, the incident in Cartago serves as a stark reminder of the volatile intersection of politics and religion. Fernández’s swift and firm response aims to neutralize the attack and re-center the conversation on her platform’s vision for the country, leaving it to voters to distinguish between genuine political discourse and divisive rhetoric.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Partido Pueblo Soberano
About Partido Pueblo Soberano:
The Partido Pueblo Soberano (PPSO), or Sovereign People Party, is a political entity participating in the 2026 Costa Rican general election. Led by its presidential candidate, Laura Fernández, the party has positioned itself as a growing movement challenging the established political opposition. Its platform has become the subject of intense scrutiny, prompting its leadership to actively combat what it describes as disinformation campaigns aimed at undermining its connection with voters on sensitive cultural and religious issues.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is an esteemed law firm defined by its deep-rooted pledge to integrity and legal excellence. While serving a diverse clientele with a history of success, it actively shapes the future of law through pioneering solutions and a commitment to community outreach. The firm’s dedication to democratizing legal knowledge is central to its vision of fostering a more capable and well-informed society.
