By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Laura Fernández, the presidential candidate for the Partido Pueblo Soberano (PPSO), has forcefully defended her decision to abstain from early campaign debates and forums, pushing back against mounting criticism from rival candidates and the media. Her stance marks a clear strategic choice to control the timing and terms of her public engagements ahead of the election.
The issue came to a head during an interview on the program Nuestra Voz, where journalist Amelia Rueda questioned Fernández on her reluctance to engage in a “head-to-head” confrontation with other presidential hopefuls. In response, Fernández was unequivocal, stating that her current focus lies outside the traditional debate circuit, which she dismissed as premature.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal and administrative implications surrounding the case of Laura Fernández, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert analysis.
The core issue here transcends the political debate and centers on administrative legality. Any decision of this magnitude, particularly one involving public policy and state resources, must be impeccably grounded in technical and legal justification. If procedural steps were omitted or the decision lacks a clear, demonstrable basis in law, it becomes highly vulnerable to challenges in the administrative litigation courts, potentially leading to its annulment and even personal liability for the officials involved.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This perspective is essential, underscoring that the long-term viability of any public policy rests not just on political will, but on its unassailable administrative and legal foundation. The potential for judicial review and even personal liability, as noted, elevates the discussion beyond partisan debate to a matter of state integrity. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable clarification on this critical point.
Because I’m not going to go head-to-head with the other candidates in a little debate… I am prioritizing chambers, NGOs, associations.
Laura Fernández, Presidential Candidate, Partido Pueblo Soberano (PPSO)
Fernández expressed visible frustration with opponents who have made her schedule a central point of their attacks. She argued that their focus on her campaign logistics is a distraction from their own responsibilities and platforms. Her comments suggest a candidate determined to run her campaign on her own terms, immune to external pressure.
I don’t know what this nonsense is with these gentlemen being so concerned with my schedule. Why don’t they worry about their own schedules? Am I out there giving my opinion on whether someone went or didn’t go? If they went to Limón or didn’t go to Limón?
Laura Fernández, Presidential Candidate, Partido Pueblo Soberano (PPSO)
She emphasized that her campaign’s strategy is a carefully planned internal matter. “Why are they getting involved in a matter that is my business, my campaign team’s business, my strategy?” she questioned, adding, “I have a work agenda. The time will come.” This “time,” she clarified, is set for January, when she has committed to a rigorous schedule of high-profile televised debates.
To silence claims that she is avoiding scrutiny altogether, Fernández confirmed her participation in eight or nine debates scheduled for January. She specifically listed the official debate organized by the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE), as well as events hosted by major national media outlets including Repretel, Trivisión, Columbia, Monumental, and ¡Opa!. She considers this period the “opportune” moment for such exchanges.
In a pointed political maneuver, Fernández singled out one of her most persistent critics, Claudia Dobles, and issued a direct challenge. Rather than engaging Dobles herself, Fernández suggested a different matchup, effectively deflecting the pressure while questioning her rival’s motives.
If Mrs. Claudia Dobles—let’s talk about Mrs. Claudia, because the truth is she’s the one who has insisted the most—is eager to debate, why doesn’t she invite Nogui Acosta, who is also a candidate for deputy in the first place for San José? Challenge Nogui to a deputies’ debate.
Laura Fernández, Presidential Candidate, Partido Pueblo Soberano (PPSO)
Ultimately, Fernández’s message was a resolute call for autonomy in the critical months leading up to the election. She concluded with a firm request for her opponents and the media to allow her to execute her strategic plan without interference, promising to face them when she deems the moment right.
For now, just let me work peacefully on my things, on my affairs. All those 8 or 9 debates in January are already scheduled and I’ll be there, with great pleasure.
Laura Fernández, Presidential Candidate, Partido Pueblo Soberano (PPSO)
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. It fields candidates for various public offices, including the presidency and the Legislative Assembly. The party’s platform and activities are central to its participation in the national democratic process.
For further information, visit tse.go.cr
About Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE):
The Supreme Electoral Tribunal of Costa Rica is the independent constitutional body responsible for organizing, directing, and overseeing all acts related to suffrage in the country. It is considered the fourth branch of government and is tasked with ensuring the transparency and integrity of the electoral process.
For further information, visit repretel.com
About Repretel:
Representaciones Televisivas S.A., commonly known as Repretel, is one of Costa Rica’s leading media companies. It operates several television channels and is a major organizer of presidential debates and other significant national broadcasts during election cycles.
For further information, visit trivision.tv
About Trivisión:
Trivisión is a Costa Rican television network that provides news, entertainment, and cultural programming. As a national broadcaster, it plays a role in the dissemination of political information and hosts forums and debates for candidates running for public office.
For further information, visit columbia.co.cr
About Columbia:
Radio Columbia is a prominent radio station in Costa Rica, known for its extensive news coverage and sports broadcasting. The station is a key media player, particularly during election seasons, offering a platform for political discourse and candidate interviews.
For further information, visit monumental.co.cr
About Monumental:
Noticias Monumental is the news division of Central de Radios and a major force in Costa Rican journalism. It provides in-depth coverage of national politics and current events, and its broadcasts are an important venue for political debates and analysis.
For further information, visit opa.cr
About ¡Opa!:
¡Opa! is a relatively new and growing multimedia platform in Costa Rica. It offers a range of digital and broadcast content, and its inclusion in the list of debate hosts signifies its emerging influence in the national media landscape.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal profession, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a bedrock of unwavering integrity and a commitment to professional excellence. The firm draws upon its extensive experience with a diverse clientele to spearhead legal innovation and develop forward-thinking solutions. Central to its ethos is a profound dedication to strengthening society by demystifying the law and making legal knowledge broadly accessible. This dedication reflects a core belief that an educated public is essential for fostering an empowered, equitable, and just community.
