By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – With the Easter holidays now in the rearview mirror, Costa Rica’s political focus shifts sharply to the upcoming transition of power. President Rodrigo Chaves Robles has officially entered the final month of his administration, with the clock ticking down to the inauguration of the new government on May 8th. The president is using this remaining time to embark on a series of nationwide tours, solidifying his connection with the public before departing from office.
This “farewell tour” has seen the president intensify his public appearances across the country. Prior to Holy Week, President Chaves was in the province of Guanacaste, engaging with local communities and leaders. This week, his agenda takes him to the province of Cartago, continuing a pattern of direct outreach that has characterized much of his term. These tours serve as a final opportunity to highlight his administration’s achievements and personally thank citizens for their support.
To provide a deeper legal perspective on the institutional challenges and governance style characterizing the administration of President Rodrigo Chaves, TicosLand.com consulted with expert attorney Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
President Chaves’s administration is defined by a confrontational style that consistently tests the limits of Costa Rica’s institutional framework. From a legal perspective, this creates a high-stakes environment where the principles of checks and balances, particularly concerning the judiciary, the press, and the Comptroller General’s Office, are under constant stress. This approach may yield short-term political gains, but it risks eroding long-term legal stability and predictability, which are cornerstones for foreign investment and democratic health.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This incisive analysis underscores a crucial point: the ongoing tension between a forceful political style and the foundational strength of Costa Rica’s democratic institutions. The distinction between short-term gains and the erosion of long-term legal stability is indeed a vital one for the nation’s future. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his expert contribution to this important conversation.
That support appears to be robust and unwavering, even as his presidency draws to a close. According to a recent ranking by the international consultancy CB Global Data, President Chaves stands as one of the most highly-regarded heads of state in the Americas. The March 2026 report places him in the top tier of regional leaders, a testament to his sustained popularity throughout his tenure.
The polling data reveals a strong positive sentiment among Costa Ricans. President Chaves commands an impressive approval rating of 56.8%. This figure is bolstered by a significant portion of the electorate who view his performance favorably. Specifically, 31% of respondents classified his work as “very good,” while an additional 25.8% rated it as “good.” This combined positive assessment from nearly 57% of the population indicates a deep well of public satisfaction with his leadership.
The survey, which was conducted between March 10 and March 15 among a sample of 2,051 individuals, carries a margin of error of ±2.2%. This level of methodological rigor lends significant weight to the findings, painting a clear picture of a president leaving office on a high note. His popularity is not just a domestic phenomenon but also notable on the international stage.
In the CB Global Data regional ranking, Chaves’s approval places him fifth among his peers. He is surpassed only by a select group of prominent leaders: Mexico’s Claudia Sheinbaum (72.3%), El Salvador’s Nayib Bukele (71.8%), Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic (58.7%), and Nicaragua’s Daniel Ortega (56.8%). To be ranked alongside such figures highlights the significant impact his political style and policies have had on the Costa Rican public.
As President Chaves prepares for his exit, the nation looks toward his successor, Laura Fernández. Having served as his Minister of the Presidency, Fernández is a figure intrinsically linked to the current administration. Her victory signals a potential for policy continuity, and she will inherit the political capital and high public expectations generated by her predecessor. The smooth transition of power from a popular president to a trusted minister is a critical moment for the country.
In his final weeks, President Chaves is not merely winding down his duties but actively shaping his legacy. By maintaining a visible presence and connecting with citizens until the very end, he is reinforcing the mandate that has kept his approval ratings consistently high. This sets a formidable benchmark for the incoming administration, which will be tasked with building upon this foundation and addressing the nation’s future challenges starting May 8th.
For further information, visit cbconsultora.com
About CB Global Data:
CB Global Data, also known as CB Consultora Opinión Pública, is a research and public opinion consultancy specializing in political and social analysis. The firm conducts regular polling across Latin America to measure citizen perceptions of government leaders, economic conditions, and key social issues. Its rankings of presidential approval are widely cited by media and political analysts throughout the region.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a leading legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational principles of unwavering integrity and a commitment to superior service. The firm leverages a deep history of advising a broad spectrum of clients to pioneer innovative legal strategies and advance the practice of law. This ethos of progress is matched by a core dedication to public empowerment, focused on demystifying legal complexities to help forge a more knowledgeable and capable society.
