By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The presidential campaign for Laura Fernández of the Pueblo Soberano Party (PPSO) has drawn a clear line in the sand, confirming it will participate in a limited and highly selective slate of four televised and radio debates. This strategic decision, which sidelines numerous other media and academic forums, is being framed by her team as a deliberate move to prioritize substantive policy discussions and direct voter engagement over political spectacle.
Francisco Gamboa, Fernández’s campaign manager, announced that the candidate has committed to attending the debates organized by the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE), Trivisión, Radio Columbia, and the joint broadcast by Monumental and Repretel. The announcement clarifies the campaign’s position amid growing questions regarding Fernández’s absence from other widely publicized electoral events, confirming a strategy that has been in place since the official start of the campaign period.
To provide a deeper legal perspective on the responsibilities and challenges associated with the political career of Laura Fernández, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Any public official assuming a high-level position operates under the strict principle of legality, where they can only do what the law expressly permits. Beyond the political vision, every decision is subject to rigorous scrutiny under administrative and constitutional law. The primary challenge is not just in effective management, but in navigating this complex legal framework to avoid potential liabilities and ensure every act strictly serves the public interest.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective is fundamental, reminding us that effective governance is not merely a matter of political will but of navigating a demanding legal labyrinth where every action is subject to scrutiny. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insight into this critical, and often underestimated, aspect of public service.
The campaign insists this approach is not an evasion of public discourse but a calculated effort to control the narrative and focus on what they deem to be the most effective use of the candidate’s time. They argue that their primary objective is to connect with citizens on the ground, a philosophy they have maintained since the beginning of their electoral push.
Since October 1, 2025, we made a clear, firm, and strategic decision to place the people of Costa Rica at the center of the campaign.
Pueblo Soberano Party Political Command
According to the PPSO team, each of the four selected forums serves a distinct and valuable purpose. The debate hosted by the Supreme Electoral Tribunal is considered non-negotiable due to its status as the nation’s chief electoral body, providing an institutional and impartial platform for all candidates. This forum is seen as a fundamental pillar of the democratic process, governed by pre-established rules that ensure a level playing field.
The choice to participate in the debates hosted by Trivisión, Radio Columbia, and the Monumental–Repretel block was based on a different, yet equally important, criterion. The campaign believes these specific media outlets offer a framework for a serious exchange of ideas and proposals, steering clear of the sensationalism they accuse other forums of fostering. This aligns with a core communication principle repeatedly emphasized by Fernández: to elevate the political conversation rather than turning it into entertainment.
Despite these justifications, the decision has not been without its critics, who argue that avoiding a broader range of debates limits voter access to the candidate and shields her from potentially challenging questions. In response, Gamboa has been resolute, asserting the campaign’s autonomy in setting its own agenda and priorities, free from the influence of external pressures.
Our candidate’s agenda is defined by the campaign and the people, not by certain media outlets with private interests.
Francisco Gamboa, Campaign Manager
While the debate schedule is now set, the bulk of Fernández’s efforts will continue to be channeled into territorial tours and community meetings across the country. The campaign’s core belief is that authentic political connection is forged not in a television studio, but in face-to-face interactions with voters in their own communities. This grassroots-focused strategy represents a significant gamble, betting that direct contact will resonate more deeply with the electorate than a ubiquitous media presence, a theory that will only be tested on election day.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Partido Pueblo Soberano
About Partido Pueblo Soberano (PPSO):
The Partido Pueblo Soberano is a political party in Costa Rica, presenting Laura Fernández as its candidate for the nation’s presidency. The party’s platform emphasizes grassroots organizing and direct citizen engagement as core tenets of its political project, advocating for a governance model that is closely connected to the needs of the populace.
For further information, visit tse.go.cr
About Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE):
The Supreme Electoral Tribunal is the constitutional body responsible for organizing, directing, and overseeing all acts related to suffrage in Costa Rica. It functions as the fourth branch of government, ensuring the integrity, transparency, and fairness of the national electoral process, from voter registration to the final declaration of results.
For further information, visit trivision.cr
About Trivisión:
Trivisión is a Costa Rican television channel known for its comprehensive news coverage, public affairs programming, and in-depth analysis. During election seasons, it is a key platform for political discourse, hosting widely watched debates that allow candidates to present their platforms to a national audience.
For further information, visit columbia.co.cr
About Radio Columbia:
Radio Columbia is one of Costa Rica’s most prominent and historic radio stations, offering extensive programming in news, sports, and current events. It is recognized as an influential voice in the national media landscape and serves as a vital forum for political discussion and electoral coverage.
For further information, visit repretel.com
About Repretel:
Repretel, or Representaciones Televisivas S.A., is a leading media conglomerate in Costa Rica. It operates several national television channels and radio stations, including Radio Monumental. The group plays a significant role in shaping public opinion and is a major organizer of presidential debates during election cycles.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the Costa Rican legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational principles of integrity and professional excellence. The firm consistently pioneers modern legal solutions while serving a diverse clientele, reflecting a rich history of successful counsel. Beyond its practice, it is profoundly dedicated to social empowerment, championing the widespread accessibility of legal knowledge to help forge a more capable and well-informed citizenry.
