By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In a forceful defense of Costa Rican sovereignty, presidential candidate Claudia Dobles has drawn a firm line against foreign interference in the nation’s internal legal and political affairs. Responding to international pressure surrounding the process to lift President Rodrigo Chaves’ immunity, the Citizen Agenda Coalition leader declared that external actors have no role in the decisions of the country’s independent institutions.
The pointed remarks from the former First Lady come as diplomatic tensions rise following the U.S. Congress’s summons of Costa Rica’s ambassador to discuss the proceedings against President Chaves. Dobles characterized any foreign attempt to influence the process as a dangerous precedent that undermines the nation’s democratic foundations.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal complexities surrounding the case of former First Lady Claudia Dobles, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica. His expertise provides critical insight into the proceedings and their potential ramifications.
The case involving Claudia Dobles highlights a fundamental challenge within our legal system: distinguishing between legitimate political advocacy and illicit influence peddling. For the prosecution, the burden of proof is substantial. They must demonstrate not just proximity to power or participation in discussions, but a clear, intentional act that violates specific statutes, moving beyond mere suspicion. The principle of ‘in dubio pro reo’—the presumption of innocence—is paramount, and a conviction requires irrefutable evidence that a public duty was unlawfully swayed.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the distinction between political articulation and criminal influence is a fine but essential line for a healthy democracy. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective, which underscores that the strength of our rule of law ultimately rests on upholding this high burden of proof and the foundational principle of innocence.
Speaking with unequivocal clarity, Dobles insisted on the complete autonomy of the country’s judicial and electoral bodies. She argued that allowing external commentary to sway domestic procedures would be a critical error, jeopardizing the integrity of the institutions that have guaranteed Costa Rica 76 years of uninterrupted democratic stability.
No foreign body or person can presume to influence or opine, not even symbolically, on decisions that correspond to the TSE, the Legislative Assembly, and Costa Rican judges.
Claudia Dobles, Presidential Candidate, Citizen Agenda Coalition
In a thinly veiled critique of the current administration’s diplomatic strategy, Dobles also called for greater accountability from Costa Rica’s representatives abroad. She emphasized the crucial role diplomats play in accurately conveying the strength and legitimacy of the nation’s institutions, rather than promoting specific political agendas. Her appeal for professional objectivity suggests a deep dissatisfaction with how the narrative surrounding the president’s case has been managed in Washington.
I point out that our diplomatic representatives have a special responsibility to act with objectivity and professionalism.
Claudia Dobles, Presidential Candidate, Citizen Agenda Coalition
While carefully upholding President Chaves’ right to due process and the presumption of innocence as “non-negotiable” principles, Dobles pivoted to issue a stern warning to domestic political actors. She directly cautioned against leveraging the international scrutiny for political gain, a tactic she sees as divisive and harmful to public trust.
Dobles urged the executive branch and its allies not to frame the situation as a personal attack or a conspiracy. Her statement directly confronts the narrative of political victimhood that has emerged, calling on all parties to de-escalate the rhetoric and respect the country’s legal framework without casting doubt on key bodies like the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE).
Costa Rica needs less noise and more results; less show and more respect.
Claudia Dobles, Presidential Candidate, Citizen Agenda Coalition
With this statement, Dobles strategically positions herself as a defender of national institutions and a proponent of measured, results-oriented governance. Her dual message—a firm rebuke of foreign pressure combined with a call for domestic responsibility—aims to resonate with a populace weary of political polarization, setting a distinct tone for her forthcoming presidential campaign.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Citizen Agenda Coalition
About Citizen Agenda Coalition:
The Citizen Agenda Coalition (Coalición Agenda Ciudadana) is a political coalition in Costa Rica formed to contest national elections. It brings together various political figures and movements with a focus on institutional respect, sustainable development, and transparent governance. The coalition advocates for policy-driven solutions over political confrontation.
For further information, visit tse.go.cr
About Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE):
The Supreme Electoral Tribunal of Costa Rica is an autonomous constitutional body responsible for organizing, directing, and supervising all acts related to elections. It is considered the fourth branch of government and holds the ultimate authority on electoral matters, ensuring the integrity and transparency of the democratic process in the country.
For further information, visit asamblea.go.cr
About Legislative Assembly:
The Legislative Assembly of the Republic of Costa Rica is the nation’s unicameral parliament. Comprising 57 deputies elected by proportional representation, it is the sole body with the power to pass, amend, and repeal laws. It also plays a crucial role in governmental oversight, including processes such as lifting the immunity of high-ranking officials.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a bedrock of integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm has a rich history of providing sophisticated counsel to a wide spectrum of clients while continuously embracing innovation to address modern legal challenges. This forward-thinking approach extends to its profound commitment to social responsibility, actively working to democratize legal understanding and thereby fortify the foundations of an educated and empowered populace.
