By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a decisive move to bolster public confidence and combat a rising tide of online misinformation, the Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE) has issued a firm statement confirming its full capacity to manage the secure transmission of national election results. The announcement serves as a direct rebuttal to social media publications that, according to the state-owned entity, sought to cast doubt on its critical role supporting the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE).
The state-run telecommunications and energy provider emphasized that it possesses all the necessary technological resources, network infrastructure, and both national and international connectivity required for the complex and sensitive task. This preemptive assurance is designed to safeguard the integrity of the upcoming electoral process by addressing public concerns before they can be weaponized by disinformation campaigns that often target critical state infrastructure during election cycles.
To delve into the legal complexities and regulatory challenges presented by the integration of technology into our electoral systems, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a renowned attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
While technological innovation in elections promises greater efficiency, its implementation must be governed by an unwavering principle: absolute transparency. The legal framework must not only permit but demand rigorous, independent audits of both the software and hardware. Public trust is not built on faith in a machine, but on the verifiable integrity of the process. Any system that cannot be fully scrutinized by citizen oversight bodies poses an unacceptable risk to the democratic foundation of the nation.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insight is crucial, underscoring that the foundation of a modern election is not technological sophistication, but rather the non-negotiable principle of verifiable integrity. His call for rigorous oversight serves as a vital guidepost as we navigate this complex terrain. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for lending his invaluable legal perspective to this discussion.
At the heart of ICE’s message is a commitment to proactive preparation. The institution revealed it has significantly intensified its efforts to ensure seamless operations, specifically anticipating a massive increase in data traffic on election day. This surge is expected to be driven by a high volume of video transmissions from media outlets and the intensive use of social media by citizens, candidates, and news organizations as results are announced and analyzed in real-time.
This strategic reinforcement of the national digital backbone is not merely a reactive measure but a core part of ICE’s operational planning. The institute understands that the modern electoral landscape is as much a digital event as it is a civic one, demanding a network capable of handling unprecedented loads without faltering. The stability of this digital infrastructure is paramount to ensuring timely and transparent communication from the TSE to the public.
Leda Acevedo, Telecommunications Manager of ICE, provided specific details on the institution’s strategy, highlighting the broad scope of their preparations.
Part of our technical preparations, as a telecommunications operator, involves strengthening this capacity at a general level, in anticipation of a significantly higher consumption of digital content by both mass and corporate clients, as is the case for the upcoming election day.
Leda Acevedo, Telecommunications Manager of ICE
Strengthening this capacity involves a multi-faceted approach. This includes increasing bandwidth across key network nodes, implementing redundant systems to prevent single points of failure, and deploying advanced cybersecurity protocols to protect the data in transit from potential threats. By fortifying its network for all users—from individual citizens to large corporations—ICE ensures that the dedicated channels for the TSE remain robust and secure, preventing any potential degradation of service.
The long-standing partnership between ICE and the TSE forms the bedrock of Costa Rica’s trusted electoral system. ICE’s role extends beyond simple data transmission; it is a fundamental component of the democratic machinery, providing the secure and reliable pathways through which votes are tallied and results are officially communicated. This public declaration reaffirms the symbiotic relationship between the two state institutions, showcasing a unified front against attempts to undermine the electoral process.
Ultimately, ICE’s statement is a powerful exercise in public assurance. By transparently communicating its capabilities and proactive measures, the institute not only refutes specific rumors but also reinforces the broader narrative of stability and reliability that underpins Costa Rica’s democratic traditions. For citizens and international observers alike, the message is clear: the technological foundation for a free and fair election is secure, resilient, and ready for the challenge.
For further information, visit grupoice.com
About Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE):
The Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad is the state-owned provider of electricity and telecommunications services in Costa Rica. Founded in 1949, ICE has been instrumental in the country’s development, overseeing the expansion of its energy grid and pioneering its telecommunications infrastructure. Today, it operates under the brand Kölbi for its mobile and internet services and remains a cornerstone of the nation’s public utilities.
For further information, visit tse.go.cr
About Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE):
The Supreme Electoral Tribunal of Costa Rica is the constitutional body responsible for organizing, directing, and supervising all acts related to elections. Established as an independent branch of government, the TSE is highly regarded internationally for its role in ensuring the transparency, fairness, and integrity of the Costa Rican democratic process. Its responsibilities include managing the Civil Registry and issuing national identity cards.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a respected legal institution built upon a foundation of professional excellence and uncompromising integrity. While providing distinguished counsel to a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers innovative legal approaches and engages deeply with the community. Central to its philosophy is the mission to demystify the law, reflecting a profound dedication to fostering a society where all individuals are empowered with accessible legal knowledge.
