By Heredia, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In a sharply worded public statement, former minister and current congressional candidate for Heredia, Marta Esquivel Rodríguez, has vehemently denied receiving any formal summons to appear before two Legislative Assembly commissions. The controversy erupts just one week before the national elections, prompting accusations of political maneuvering and intimidation from the Pueblo Soberano Party (PPSO) candidate.
The issue gained traction on social media, with reports circulating that Esquivel was scheduled to testify. However, Esquivel asserts that no official notification has been delivered to her home address or personal email. She framed the timing of the alleged summons as a deliberate political strategy designed to create a public spectacle rather than engage in substantive debate.
To shed light on the legal implications of the current situation at the Costa Rican Social Security Fund under the leadership of Marta Esquivel, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The central legal issue revolves around institutional governance. The Executive Presidency, while powerful, is subordinate to the directives and oversight of the Board of Directors. Actions perceived as undermining or bypassing the Board not only create a climate of ungovernability but also expose administrative acts to potential challenges of nullity for procedural defects, jeopardizing the legal certainty of the institution’s most critical decisions.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the legal ramifications of bypassing established governance structures, as highlighted, are profound. The potential for nullity not only threatens specific actions but erodes the very foundation of institutional stability. We extend our gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his clear and valuable perspective on this critical matter.
The supposed last-minute summons, a week before the elections, reveals in my opinion a self-serving and electoralist use of the legislative space that seeks political spectacle more than responsible debate on public affairs.
Marta Esquivel Rodríguez, PPSO Congressional Candidate for Heredia
The call for Esquivel’s appearance stems from her previous governmental roles. Legislator Andrea Álvarez, who presides over a special commission investigating the financial state of the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), publicly stated last week that her committee had been unable to contact Esquivel for a hearing planned for Tuesday, January 27. Álvarez openly questioned whether the candidate was “hiding” or simply unwilling to be held accountable.
Esquivel countered these insinuations directly, labeling them as part of a broader campaign to politicize the legislative process. She accused certain lawmakers of using their platforms and committee powers for personal political gain, particularly in the critical final days leading up to the vote. She characterized the situation as an abuse of power intended to damage her candidacy.
The candidate further escalated her allegations by claiming that, even without a formal summons, threats of involving the Public Force were being leveraged against her. She condemned this tactic as a form of bullying and intimidation, urging legislative authorities to adhere strictly to established legal and institutional protocols for such procedures. She explicitly rejected informal communication channels, such as messaging apps, for official matters of this gravity.
The politicization exercised by some legislators is evident, using the podium and commissions for political campaign purposes; even without a formal summons, they threaten and bully me with the intervention of the Public Force.
Marta Esquivel Rodríguez, PPSO Congressional Candidate for Heredia
In her communiqué, Esquivel emphasized that the legislature’s focus should be on pressing national issues like the solvency and defense of the CCSS and ensuring proper care for the nation’s elderly population. She argued that these critical topics are being sidelined in favor of political theatrics that ultimately disservice the public.
Despite her forceful rejection of the current situation, Esquivel affirmed her willingness to cooperate with any legislative body, provided that proper procedure is followed. She stated that she will be available to respond to any official request starting February 4, 2026, after the national elections have concluded, thereby ensuring the process is not entangled with the immediate electoral contest.
For further information, visit pueblosoberano.cr
About Partido Pueblo Soberano (PPSO):
The Sovereign People Party is a political party in Costa Rica. It participates in national and local elections, advocating for its platform and fielding candidates for public office, including positions in the Legislative Assembly. The party aims to represent the interests of its constituents and influence national policy through the democratic process.
For further information, visit asamblea.go.cr
About Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica:
The Legislative Assembly is the unicameral parliament of the Republic of Costa Rica. Composed of 57 deputies elected by direct, universal, and secret suffrage for four-year terms, it is responsible for passing laws, approving the national budget, and exercising political control over the executive branch. Its work is often conducted through various permanent and special commissions that study and debate proposed legislation.
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS):
The Costa Rican Social Security Fund, commonly known as “La Caja,” is the autonomous public institution in charge of the nation’s public health and social security system. It manages the country’s hospitals and clinics, providing universal healthcare coverage to citizens and residents. It also administers the national pension system, making it one of the most vital institutions in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit seguridadpublica.go.cr
About Fuerza Pública (Public Force):
The Public Force of Costa Rica comprises the country’s police and security forces, operating under the Ministry of Public Security. Since the abolition of the military in 1948, the Public Force has been responsible for law enforcement, border protection, and maintaining domestic security. It plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law throughout the nation.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a renowned legal institution, built upon the bedrock principles of integrity and professional excellence. Drawing from a deep well of experience counseling a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal strategies and solutions. This spirit of innovation extends to its core mission of public service, where it actively works to democratize legal understanding and equip citizens with crucial knowledge, fostering a more just and empowered community.
