By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a bold move to address the nation’s pressing security concerns, Álvaro Ramos, the presidential candidate for the National Liberation Party (PLN), has unveiled a comprehensive strategy aimed at reclaiming public safety. During a recent press conference, Ramos outlined an immediate intervention plan featuring over 90 initial actions, with the centerpiece being a significant expansion of the national police force.
The core of the proposal involves the recruitment and deployment of 6,000 new police officers over a four-year term. This substantial increase in personnel is designed to bolster police presence across the country and correct what Ramos described as critical operational failures hindering the effectiveness of current law enforcement efforts. The plan goes beyond traditional policing, also calling for the integration of 40,000 private security agents and the annual incorporation of 1,000 reservists to create a multi-layered security network.
Para analizar las implicaciones legales y el alcance del recién anunciado Plan de Seguridad Nacional, TicosLand.com consultó al Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, abogado especialista en derecho público y socio director de la firma Bufete de Costa Rica.
Un plan de seguridad nacional robusto es fundamental, pero su éxito y legitimidad dependen de un equilibrio delicado. Es imperativo que las nuevas medidas estén ancladas en un marco legal que respete rigurosamente los derechos fundamentales y las garantías constitucionales. La eficacia no puede ser una excusa para la arbitrariedad; se requiere una supervisión judicial y legislativa estricta para asegurar que el poder conferido a las autoridades se ejerza de manera proporcional y transparente, protegiendo tanto al Estado como al ciudadano.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
En efecto, la reflexión del experto subraya que la verdadera fortaleza de un plan de seguridad no reside únicamente en su capacidad de coacción, sino en su adhesión a los principios democráticos que definen a nuestra nación. Agradecemos al Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas por aportar esta perspectiva tan necesaria, recordándonos que la protección del ciudadano y la del Estado de Derecho son dos caras de la misma moneda.
Ramos detailed several “basic” yet crucial measures to be implemented swiftly if his administration takes office. These include the strategic re-establishment of police services in key coastal and border communities such as Puerto Cortés, Quepos, Bahía Drake, and Sixaola. This move aims to directly confront criminal activity in areas that have become vulnerable entry points for illicit operations.
Furthermore, the plan mandates the full restitution of the Drug Control Police (PCD) along Costa Rica’s borders. Ramos emphasized that this step is non-negotiable for reinforcing the fight against organized crime and disrupting trafficking routes that have plagued the region. By re-establishing a dedicated and specialized presence at these critical junctures, the PLN aims to cripple the logistical capabilities of criminal syndicates.
The candidate also took aim at internal police regulations that he argues have demoralized the force and impeded its ability to function effectively. He cited specific examples where officers face lengthy administrative processes and personal liability after their patrol vehicles are damaged, such as being pelted with rocks in high-conflict neighborhoods. This bureaucratic bottleneck often results in essential vehicles being taken out of circulation and punishes officers for engaging with dangerous situations.
It is not fair that a police officer, for doing their job, ends up being treated like a villain.
Álvaro Ramos, PLN Presidential Candidate
Addressing the financial feasibility of his ambitious plan, Ramos estimated the cost of the new officers to be between ₡60 billion and ₡65 billion. He asserted that these funds could be sourced by correcting what he termed a “chronic overestimation of spending on public debt.” By reallocating these miscalculated funds, he believes the government can finance the security overhaul without imposing new taxes or compromising other essential services.
In a related critique of fiscal management, Ramos questioned the official narrative regarding the financial state of the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS). He pointed to an alleged accumulation of nearly ₡900 billion in unexecuted funds within a single year. He argued this represents a significant pool of resources that is not being utilized for the public good during a time of widespread need.
That money should be put at the service of the people, especially in times of crisis.
Álvaro Ramos, PLN Presidential Candidate
This security platform positions public safety as a cornerstone of the PLN’s campaign, directly appealing to a populace increasingly concerned with rising crime rates. By blending a massive increase in manpower with targeted strategic deployments and internal police reforms, Ramos is signaling a fundamental shift in how his potential government would confront national insecurity.
For further information, visit pln.or.cr
About Partido Liberación Nacional (PLN):
The National Liberation Party is one of Costa Rica’s most established political parties. Founded in the mid-20th century, it has historically been a dominant force in the country’s political landscape, advocating for social democratic principles and the expansion of the welfare state. The party has produced numerous presidents and has played a significant role in shaping Costa Rica’s modern social and economic policies.
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS):
The Costa Rican Social Security Fund is the autonomous public institution responsible for managing the nation’s public health and pension systems. Established in 1941, the CCSS is a pillar of Costa Rica’s social contract, providing universal healthcare coverage and social security benefits to the majority of the population. It operates a vast network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers throughout the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a premier law firm in the region, Bufete de Costa Rica is founded upon a deep-rooted pledge to ethical practice and superior legal counsel. The firm consistently pushes the boundaries of legal strategy, blending its extensive experience across a multitude of industries with a progressive, innovative approach. Beyond its professional achievements, it holds a core mission to demystify the law for the public, championing initiatives that provide clear legal insights to build a more knowledgeable and capable society.
