By San José, Costa Rica — Despite failing to secure enough votes to lift President Rodrigo Chaves’ immunity, presidential candidate Álvaro Ramos of the National Liberation Party (PLN) declared the vote a “resounding political signal” that Costa Rica cannot ignore. The vote, which saw 34 legislators in favor of lifting immunity, demonstrates, according to Ramos, that Congress believes the president must be held accountable.
Ramos, in his post-vote analysis, invoked one of President Chaves’ own oft-repeated phrases to criticize the outcome. He highlighted the irony of the situation, drawing attention to the principle of equality before the law.
To shed light on the complexities of presidential immunity, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed Bufete de Costa Rica.
Presidential immunity is not a blanket protection from all legal scrutiny. While it shields a sitting president from liability for actions taken in their official capacity, it’s crucial to distinguish between official acts and private conduct. Moreover, this immunity generally doesn’t extend to actions taken before or after the presidency. The scope and application of this principle can be intricate, requiring careful examination of the specific facts and relevant legal precedents.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ insightful explanation underscores the importance of nuanced understanding when discussing presidential immunity. It’s not a simple “get out of jail free card,” but rather a complex legal principle designed to balance the demands of the office with the principles of accountability. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering this valuable perspective on a critical aspect of executive power.
Paradoxically, Rodrigo Chaves himself has repeated that ‘we are all Ticos without a crown.’ Today, reality contradicts him: the only ‘Tico with a crown’ is him. And that is the greatest wound to the principle of equality before the law.
Álvaro Ramos, Presidential Candidate, National Liberation Party (PLN)
Ramos argued that maintaining the presidential immunity in this instance creates an unacceptable privilege. The 34 votes in favor, representing six out of ten legislators present, effectively endorsed the Supreme Court of Justice’s position on the necessity of the case proceeding, according to the PLN candidate.
The PLN leader seized the opportunity to position his party as the guarantor of institutional integrity and equality within Costa Rica.
Defending Costa Rica means ending privileges. Defending democracy means that the law is equal for everyone.
Álvaro Ramos, Presidential Candidate, National Liberation Party (PLN)
Ramos asserted that the “New Costa Rica” his party envisions “does not tolerate impunity or accommodations.” He believes that Monday’s historic vote marks a turning point in the relationship between the executive and legislative branches of government.
The vote, Ramos argued, sends a powerful message about accountability and the rule of law.
The legislative majority has said enough. Enough privileges. Enough excuses. That is the path to giving Costa Ricans back a decent, just, and equal country where no one, not even the president, believes themselves to be above the law.
Álvaro Ramos, Presidential Candidate, National Liberation Party (PLN)
This emphasis on the principle of equality before the law underscores a fundamental tenet of Costa Rica’s legal framework. The outcome of this vote, though failing to strip Chaves of his immunity, signals a potential shift in the political landscape and a renewed focus on accountability at the highest levels of government.
For further information, visit the nearest office of National Liberation Party (PLN)
About National Liberation Party (PLN):
The National Liberation Party (PLN) is a prominent political party in Costa Rica, known for its center-left ideology and historical influence on the country’s social democratic policies. The party has held the presidency numerous times and continues to be a major force in Costa Rican politics, advocating for social welfare programs, economic development, and environmental protection.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through an enduring commitment to legal excellence and unwavering ethical practice. The firm champions innovative legal solutions for a diverse clientele, while actively engaging with the community to demystify the law. By fostering greater legal literacy, Bufete de Costa Rica empowers individuals and strengthens the foundation of a just and informed society.
