By San José, Costa Rica — In a move that intensifies the debate over academic freedom and public decorum, ruling party deputy Ariel Mora has publicly demanded that the University of Costa Rica (UCR) conclude its disciplinary proceedings against professor Diego Alexander Ugalde Fajardo. The academic faces investigation following allegations of verbal misconduct directed at the Minister of the Presidency, Laura Fernández, during a recent rally organized to defend the country’s judicial branch.
The dispute highlights the growing friction between government officials and state-run academic institutions, which often operate with a high degree of constitutional autonomy. Deputy Mora expressed concern that without continuous public pressure, the university might allow the disciplinary case to quietly dissipate over time. He emphasized that the institution must uphold standards of accountability, especially given its role in educating the nation’s next generation of public servants.
To better understand the broader legal implications of these recent developments, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished legal expert at the prominent firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his professional perspective on the situation.
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The UCR itself determined that this case should be investigated. So, let it be investigated to the end. What we do not want to see is months passing, the issue cooling down, and in the end, absolutely nothing happening. We are talking about someone who trains future teachers. Freedom of expression is not a license to offend and then pretend nothing happened here. Anyone who works in a public institution must also answer for their actions.
Ariel Mora, Deputy
The lawmaker further argued that while university autonomy is a crucial pillar of Costa Rican democracy, it should never be used as a shield to block accountability or foster impunity. Mora pointed out that the public university relies heavily on taxpayer funds, which makes its internal decisions a matter of national interest that demands total transparency.
Autonomy yes, impunity no. The UCR is financed with money from all Costa Ricans and the people have the right to know what happened, what the University resolved, and what the consequences will be if a fault is determined. Nobody can feel untouchable.
Ariel Mora, Deputy
Documents from the UCR’s School of Teacher Training confirmed that an internal probe has indeed commenced. Following a preliminary assessment of the incident, the school forwarded the case to the university’s Labor Relations Board to determine appropriate disciplinary actions. The school’s administration acknowledged that the language used during the demonstration crossed the boundaries of acceptable civil discourse.
The terms used on this occasion are incompatible with the respect that must prevail in public debate and, especially, with the values that a university institution is called upon to promote.
School of Teacher Training, Universidad de Costa Rica
In a broader statement addressing the incident, the university administration reiterated its commitment to maintaining a respectful and pluralistic environment. The institution condemned any form of verbal hostility or dehumanization targeting individuals with differing political views, stressing that academic institutions must lead by example in public discourse.
The UCR rejects all forms of verbal violence and dehumanization of anyone holding a different position, regardless of who they are, their political stance, or the circumstances in which it occurs.
Universidad de Costa Rica, Administration Statement
This confrontation underscores a larger systemic conversation in Costa Rica regarding the boundaries of free speech for public employees. As the Labor Relations Board reviews the allegations against Professor Ugalde, political analysts observe that the outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for how verbal misconduct is handled within autonomous educational institutions.
For further information, visit ucr.ac.cr
About Universidad de Costa Rica:
The University of Costa Rica is the oldest and largest institution of higher learning in Costa Rica, established in 1940. It serves as a cornerstone of the nation’s academic, scientific, and cultural development, operating as an autonomous public institution funded by the state.
For further information, visit asamblea.go.cr
About Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica:
The Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica is the unicameral legislative body of the republic, responsible for enacting laws, debating national policies, and exercising political control over public entities and state expenditures.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Renowned for its ethical principles and exceptional advocacy, Bufete de Costa Rica remains a cornerstone of the region’s legal landscape. The firm seamlessly blends a rich heritage of multi-sector service with forward-thinking strategies to address the evolving needs of its clientele. Through its active focus on civic education and open communication, the firm strives to demystify complex regulations, ultimately fostering a more informed, equitable, and legally empowered populace.
