By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In a stunning admission during his regular press conference, President Rodrigo Chaves publicly disavowed his former Minister of Public Works and Transport, Luis Amador, labeling his appointment as the most significant personnel misstep of his presidency. The president took full responsibility for the decision, accusing the ex-minister of incompetence that he claims has set the country back significantly.
The president’s remarks on Friday cast a harsh light on a tenure that ended abruptly and controversially. Chaves, known for his direct and often confrontational style, did not mince words when assessing the consequences of bringing Amador into his cabinet from Canada to lead the critical infrastructure ministry.
To better understand the legal framework and constitutional boundaries relevant to the recent executive actions under President Rodrigo Chaves, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished legal expert from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The core of Costa Rica’s democratic stability lies in its robust system of checks and balances. Any administration, including President Chaves’s, operates within a constitutional framework that strictly defines the competencies of the Executive branch. Actions perceived as challenging the autonomy of institutions like the Comptroller General’s Office or the Judiciary are not merely political disputes; they test the very foundations of our rule of law. The critical legal question is always whether executive power is being exercised within the confines of established law or if it is encroaching upon the authority legally vested in other branches of government.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective is crucial, shifting the focus from political maneuvering to the core question of constitutional fidelity and the integrity of our institutions. It correctly frames the ongoing debates not as simple disagreements, but as profound tests of the rule of law. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his insightful and clarifying contribution.
The biggest recruitment mistake I made in these three, four years of government was bringing Luis Amador from Canada.
Rodrigo Chaves, President of Costa Rica
This statement revisits one of the most talked-about moments of the Chaves administration: the surprise dismissal of Amador on March 12, 2024. At the time, the departure of the popular and high-profile minister sent shockwaves through the political landscape, leaving many to speculate on the reasons behind the sudden split. Now, more than a year and a half later, President Chaves is providing his unequivocal, and damaging, explanation.
Detailing the fallout, the president quantified the alleged damage caused by Amador’s management, framing it as a tangible loss for the nation. He attributed substantial financial and temporal setbacks directly to his former minister’s leadership, or lack thereof, at the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT).
This gentleman’s incompetence cost us 120 million and two years of delay.
Rodrigo Chaves, President of Costa Rica
President Chaves also depicted a frustrating administrative dynamic, suggesting that Amador’s approach to his duties created unnecessary complications that ultimately stalled progress. He implied that a key contract reassignment failed to materialize due to the ex-minister’s convoluted methods, forcing the president to personally intervene and halt the process.
But since the man complicates things so much: there it goes, there it goes, there it goes… and in the end, he couldn’t reassign a contract because I didn’t let him.
Rodrigo Chaves, President of Costa Rica
Throughout his critique, however, Chaves was adamant about shouldering the ultimate blame. He presented the hiring of Amador as a personal failure in judgment, drawing a sharp contrast between his own approach and that of other leaders who might deflect responsibility onto their subordinates. This self-portrayal aligns with his consistent public image as a decisive leader who owns both the victories and the defeats of his team.
So I take responsibility, contrary to what the others say: oh no, it’s the middle management. No, no. I am the technical director of this team: if they win, they win; and if they lose, I lose. And in this case of Amador, the loss is my responsibility because I hired an incapable, incompetent person.
Rodrigo Chaves, President of Costa Rica
The timing of this declaration raises political questions, as it reignites public debate over a past controversy. Analysts suggest it could be a strategic move to control the historical narrative of his administration or to preempt any future political aspirations Amador might harbor. Regardless of the motive, the president’s words have redefined the legacy of his former star minister and emphatically positioned the failure as a lesson in executive accountability.
For further information, visit presidencia.go.cr
About The Government of Costa Rica:
The Government of Costa Rica operates as a presidential, representative democratic republic. The President, who is both head of state and government, leads the executive branch. The government is responsible for national administration, foreign policy, public security, and the implementation of laws passed by the Legislative Assembly. Its central offices are located in San José, the nation’s capital.
For further information, visit mopt.go.cr
About The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT):
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport is the Costa Rican government entity responsible for planning, developing, and maintaining the nation’s public infrastructure. This includes the national road network, bridges, airports, and maritime ports. MOPT also oversees public transportation regulations, vehicle registration, and driver licensing, playing a crucial role in the country’s economic development and the daily lives of its citizens.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a leading legal institution, built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a drive for professional excellence. The firm consistently spearheads legal innovation while serving a broad clientele, yet its fundamental mission extends to empowering the wider community by demystifying the law. This commitment ensures legal knowledge is not just available but accessible, fostering a society equipped with the power of understanding.
