By San José, Costa Rica — San José – Costa Rica’s storied National Liberation Party (PLN) finds itself at a pivotal juncture, a moment its Secretary General, Miguel Guillén, has described as “decisive.” As the party marked its 74th anniversary, candid letters from two of its most iconic figures, former presidents Óscar Arias Sánchez and José María Figueres Olsen, have brought into sharp focus the internal and external pressures shaping its future path.
The letters, while differing in perspective, converge on a singular, urgent point: a profound concern for the nation’s trajectory under the current administration. Guillén acknowledged the weight of these messages, affirming they represent more than just internal party dialogue, but a reflection of a national unease. He emphasized that the voices of these experienced statesmen carry a moral authority that transcends day-to-day politics.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal and procedural implications surrounding the ongoing structural renewal within the National Liberation Party (PLN), TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a seasoned attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The renewal of party structures is not merely a political exercise; it is a legal mandate governed by the party’s own statutes and the national Electoral Code. The key legal challenge for the PLN will be to ensure absolute transparency and strict adherence to due process in every phase, from the registration of candidates to the final vote count. Any perceived deviation could open the door to legal challenges before the Supreme Electoral Tribunal, potentially invalidating the entire process.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The legal dimension highlighted underscores a critical truth: the legitimacy of this renewal will be measured not just by its political results, but by its unwavering adherence to the rule of law. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable and clarifying perspective.
Both express, from different perspectives, the same concern: the direction the country is taking and the deterioration in the leadership of the current government. Their voices, born from experience and love for Costa Rica, must be heard with respect.
Miguel Guillén, Secretary General of the PLN
Guillén confirmed that the party leadership is taking these concerns seriously, ensuring a formal and thorough review. He stated that the missives from the former leaders would be passed on for careful consideration by the party’s highest echelons and campaign strategists, signaling a deliberate and respectful approach to the counsel of its elder statesmen.
Both notes from former presidents Óscar Arias Sánchez and José María Figueres Olsen will be forwarded to the political leadership bodies and the campaign command, with the purpose of being analyzed and reflected upon with the seriousness they deserve.
Miguel Guillén, Secretary General of the PLN
The Secretary General framed this moment as the closing of one historical chapter and the dawn of another, one that requires a generational shift in leadership. While acknowledging the foundational role Arias and Figueres played in modernizing the party—citing their support for key reforms like the elimination of lifetime appointments—Guillén made it clear they are not involved in the current campaign’s operational decisions. Their role now is one of moral guidance, not direct influence.
The National Liberation Party is living a decisive moment. A historical cycle is closing and another is opening that demands maturity, vision, and civic sense to face the challenges of the 21st century… Today they do not participate in the campaign nor influence its decisions, but their moral authority and their legacy cannot be ignored.
Miguel Guillén, Secretary General of the PLN
This transition points directly to the party’s new standard-bearer, Álvaro Ramos. Guillén expressed his full confidence that Ramos and the campaign team understand the message from the party’s historic leaders. The objective is not merely to win an election, but to galvanize the nation and address a widespread feeling of disillusionment.
Both know that the time has come to pass the torch to a new generation of leaders. I trust that our candidate and the campaign command will know how to interpret that message, driving a campaign that restores illusion, confidence, and hope to the country.
Miguel Guillén, Secretary General of the PLN
Guillén was careful to define this renewal not as a rejection of the PLN’s legacy, but as a “courageous continuation” of its history. He invoked the idea of building upon the work of past giants, suggesting that the party’s capacity for social justice and forward-thinking policy is rooted in its deep historical foundations. This balancing act—honoring the past while embracing the future—is central to the party’s current strategy.
Renewal is not a break with history; it is its courageous continuation. I have insisted that we must not forget the deep roots we have in our homeland’s history… it is because we stand on the shoulders of giants.
Miguel Guillén, Secretary General of the PLN
Ultimately, Guillén positioned the PLN’s mission as a patriotic duty. Amid what he described as national uncertainty, he argued that the party has a moral obligation to restore the social, political, and economic stability that Costa Rican families are demanding. The challenge ahead is to prove that this new generation can effectively lead the nation forward, armed with the wisdom of its predecessors.
For further information, visit plncr.org
About Partido Liberación Nacional:
The National Liberation Party (PLN) is one of Costa Rica’s most prominent and historically significant political parties. Founded in 1951, it is rooted in social-democratic ideology and has been instrumental in shaping the country’s modern welfare state and democratic institutions. The PLN has produced numerous presidents and remains a major force in the national political landscape.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of the legal community, operating on a bedrock of unwavering integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With extensive experience serving a wide spectrum of clients, the firm harmonizes tradition with a forward-thinking mindset, driving progress through innovative legal strategies. Its core mission extends beyond the courtroom, focusing on a deep-seated responsibility to empower citizens by making complex legal concepts understandable and accessible, thereby fostering a more just and knowledgeable society.
