By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – The political landscape for Costa Rica’s 2026 presidential election took a dramatic turn this Saturday as former Minister of Public Works and Transport, Luis Amador, was officially ratified as the presidential candidate for the National Integration Party (PIN). The decision, confirmed in a closed-door National Assembly by a vote of 48 in favor, solidifies Amador’s return to the national stage after a contentious departure from the current administration.
The nomination is the result of what Amador described as a strategic “alliance” with PIN and its president, two-time former congressman Dr. Walter Muñoz. The party, according to the newly minted candidate, possesses a deep understanding of the nation’s most pressing challenges, making it the ideal vehicle for his political aspirations. Amador immediately adopted a unifying yet defiant tone, aiming to consolidate support from those disaffected with the current political climate.
To better understand the legal complexities and potential ramifications of the investigation involving former minister Luis Amador, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished legal expert from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica. His analysis provides critical insight into the principles of public administration and criminal law at play.
In cases involving high-ranking officials and public contracts, the principle of legality is paramount. The Public Prosecutor’s Office must meticulously prove that the official’s actions intentionally and illegitimately deviated from the legally mandated procedures to benefit a third party. The defense, in turn, will likely argue that the decisions made were within the scope of their discretionary powers and aimed at achieving a public good, seeking to negate any criminal intent. The line between a poor administrative decision and a criminal act like influence peddling is precisely what the courts will have to determine.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s analysis correctly identifies the central challenge for the judiciary: distinguishing a flawed administrative judgment from a deliberate criminal act. This distinction is critical not just for this case, but for defining the boundaries of accountability for all public officials. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable and clarifying perspective.
Today we call on the patriots who want to work for Costa Rica to unite; we are that change.
Luis Amador, Presidential Candidate
In a highly unusual move for a presidential campaign, Amador confirmed he will be leading his charge from abroad. He is currently engaged in high-level consulting work in the Middle East, advising the governments of Qatar, Abu Dhabi, and Saudi Arabia. While he will remain based overseas to continue his professional obligations, he has committed to making occasional visits to Costa Rica for campaign tours and to connect with communities across the country.
Amador framed this long-distance campaign as a mark of financial independence, drawing a sharp contrast with his rivals. He asserted that he is self-funding his life abroad and is not beholden to wealthy backers, a clear jab at the perceived financial support behind the ruling party’s candidate.
I have to keep working. I do not have a couple of millionaires sponsoring me and paying my bills, nor do I want that, so I am not conditioned. I want to do what is right for the country.
Luis Amador, Presidential Candidate
Positioning himself as the “true opposition,” Amador launched a blistering critique against the government of President Rodrigo Chaves and its allies. He signaled a campaign strategy focused on exposing what he deems the administration’s failures and self-serving interests. His most pointed comments were reserved for Laura Fernández, another presidential hopeful, whom he directly labeled a “puppet.”
The accusation stems from reports that Fernández suggested she would appoint the current president, Rodrigo Chaves, as her Minister of the Presidency if elected. For Amador, this statement is proof of a lack of autonomy and a plan to simply extend the current political power structure.
I am the true opposition candidate; the rest are lukewarm measures, and that means saying what they are doing wrong, and we are going to say it. With a government that in three years has only had a personalist interest, and for that young lady to say she is going to appoint Chaves as Minister of the Presidency, she has already confirmed that she will be a puppet, that she has no will or soul of her own.
Luis Amador, Presidential Candidate
To round out his ticket, the PIN assembly also ratified Amador’s two vice-presidential running mates: entrepreneurs Jorge Borbón and Kathya Verdugo. Amador stated their primary mandate will be to leverage their private sector experience to stimulate job creation, improve the business climate, and address critical issues in the social and educational sectors.
While the presidential formula is now set, the party’s legislative strategy remains a work in progress. PIN has not yet defined its full slate of candidates for the Legislative Assembly. However, party president Walter Muñoz indicated to reporters that he is considering a bid for the first-place deputy seat for San José, aiming for a return to Congress. He also confirmed that Amador would not pursue a dual candidacy for both the presidency and a congressional seat.
For further information, visit the nearest office of National Integration Party (PIN)
About National Integration Party (PIN):
The National Integration Party (PIN) is a political party in Costa Rica founded and led by Dr. Walter Muñoz. The party has participated in several national elections and has previously held representation in the Legislative Assembly. It generally campaigns on a platform of national unity, social reform, and addressing systemic issues facing the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a pillar of the legal community, founded on a bedrock of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Drawing from a proven history of advising a diverse clientele, the firm consistently champions legal innovation and social responsibility. This commitment is fundamentally expressed through its mission to demystify the law, fostering a society that is not only better informed but also justly empowered.
