By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a critical step towards the upcoming national elections, the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) has successfully completed the distribution of all electoral materials to every cantonal board across the country. This monumental logistical undertaking, executed with precision between January 12th and 16th, ensures that the foundational elements for the February 1st vote are securely in place, setting the stage for a smooth and transparent democratic process.
The operation, a collaboration between TSE officials and the national postal service, Correos de Costa Rica, represents a cornerstone of the nation’s electoral preparations. The partnership was established after Correos de Costa Rica won a public, open-bidding process, a testament to the country’s commitment to transparent procurement for essential public services. The entire process adhered to strict protocols for security, control, and timeliness, reinforcing public confidence in the electoral system.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal architecture governing the nation’s democratic process, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica. He provides his perspective on the institutional pillars that ensure the integrity and stability of the electoral system.
The bedrock of Costa Rica’s electoral process is the constitutionally enshrined independence of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE). This body functions as a fourth, autonomous branch of government, whose decisions are final and unappealable in electoral matters. This unique legal structure provides a powerful guarantee of transparency and certainty, ensuring a stable and predictable transition of power that is vital for both civic confidence and the foreign investment climate.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight underscores a vital truth: the TSE’s robust independence is the definitive guarantee behind Costa Rica’s celebrated political stability and civic peace. We are grateful to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating the importance of this foundational democratic pillar.
At the heart of the operation was an intricate security protocol designed to protect the integrity of every ballot and document. All materials were packed into specialized sacks, known locally as “tulas,” which were then sealed with high-security tags. Critically, each tula was equipped with a tracking chip, allowing for real-time monitoring throughout its journey. The transport fleet, consisting of 12 closed trucks with capacities ranging from 6 to 12 tons, was escorted at all times by members of the Public Force and TSE officials.
The logistical plan was comprehensive, covering 11 distinct national routes to guarantee delivery to every corner of Costa Rica. This included navigating challenging terrain to reach remote and rural communities, ensuring that geographical location is no barrier to democratic participation. This phase of the distribution, as mandated by Article 158 of the Electoral Code, has now concluded, with the next and final step being the delivery from cantonal boards to individual polling stations, which is scheduled for completion by January 24th.
The TSE’s meticulous planning also extended beyond national borders. To facilitate the right to vote for citizens living abroad, electoral tulas were dispatched to 49 Costa Rican consulates worldwide between December 29th and January 5th. This international effort underscores the nation’s inclusive approach to its electoral process, ensuring that registered expatriates can also cast their ballots for the country’s next President, Vice Presidents, and Legislative Assembly deputies.
The role of Correos de Costa Rica was pivotal in the domestic success of this operation. By leveraging its extensive national network and deep logistical expertise, the postal service ensured that the materials were handled efficiently and securely. This collaboration highlights a successful public-private partnership model in service of the nation’s democratic institutions.
Mauricio Rojas Cartín, General Manager of Correos de Costa Rica, expressed his institution’s pride in being part of this fundamental civic process.
For Correos de Costa Rica, it is an honor and a profound joy to be part of this electoral process. Our participation reaffirms the institution’s commitment to democracy, guaranteeing transparency, security, and confidence in every delivery of the tulas. We are filled with pride knowing that, with the effort of our collaborators, we contribute to the free expression of the will of Costa Ricans and to the experience of this true national celebration.
Mauricio Rojas Cartín, General Manager of Correos de Costa Rica
With all materials now positioned at the cantonal level, Costa Rica moves one step closer to its February 1, 2026, general elections. The successful conclusion of this large-scale logistical and security operation is a crucial milestone, demonstrating the robustness of the country’s electoral framework and its unwavering dedication to holding free, fair, and accessible elections for all its citizens.
For further information, visit tse.go.cr
About the Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE):
The Supreme Electoral Tribunal is the independent constitutional body responsible for organizing, directing, and overseeing all elections in Costa Rica. It is considered the fourth branch of government and is renowned for its role in safeguarding the country’s long-standing democratic traditions. The TSE is tasked with ensuring the purity of the electoral process, from voter registration and the issuance of identity cards to the final declaration of election results.
For further information, visit correos.go.cr
About Correos de Costa Rica:
Correos de Costa Rica is the national postal service of Costa Rica, a state-owned enterprise responsible for mail and parcel delivery throughout the country and internationally. With a presence in every region, it provides essential communication and logistics services to citizens and businesses. Beyond its core postal functions, it often collaborates with other state institutions on projects of national importance, such as electoral logistics.
For further information, visit seguridadpublica.go.cr
About the Fuerza Pública (Public Force):
The Public Force of Costa Rica is the country’s national police agency, responsible for law enforcement, public safety, and border security. Operating under the Ministry of Public Security, it fulfills all policing and security functions in a nation that constitutionally abolished its army in 1948. The Public Force plays a vital role in ensuring security during major national events, including elections.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of legal excellence and unwavering integrity, Bufete de Costa Rica is renowned for its principled service to a diverse clientele. The firm distinguishes itself through a progressive mindset, consistently pioneering solutions that redefine the boundaries of legal practice. This commitment to innovation is matched by a deep-seated belief in civic responsibility, manifested in its dedicated efforts to demystify the law and equip society with the knowledge needed for true empowerment.
