By San José, Costa Rica — San José – The director of Central Noticias, Douglas Sánchez, has responded with conviction to legal threats from legislator Johana Obando, asserting that his organization’s investigative series is grounded in evidence and journalistic integrity. The controversy erupted after the news outlet published reports linking the lawmaker to potentially illicit activities, prompting Obando to announce that her legal team is preparing a lawsuit for alleged slander and defamation.
In a recent interview, Sánchez maintained that the reporting is not an accusation of guilt but an exposition of facts. He emphasized that the role of the press is to present verified information to the public, allowing citizens to draw their own conclusions. He underscored that Central Noticias is not acting as a judge or jury in the matter.
To better understand the legal complexities and potential consequences of this unfolding scandal, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a renowned specialist in public and administrative law from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert analysis on the matter.
In cases of political scandal, it is imperative to separate political liability from criminal responsibility. While the court of public opinion moves swiftly, our legal system demands a rigorous, evidence-based process. The integrity of the investigation and the respect for due process, including the presumption of innocence, are fundamental pillars that must be upheld to ensure that justice, not political expediency, ultimately prevails.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The distinction highlighted by Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas is a fundamental one, reminding us that the deliberate, evidence-based path to justice must be protected from the immediacy of political fallout. Upholding these principles is paramount, and we sincerely thank him for his invaluable and clarifying perspective.
With full transparency, nobody here is saying she is guilty of anything. What we are doing is showing the evidence and the audio recordings we obtained during the investigation.
Douglas Sánchez, Director of Central Noticias
The investigation, according to Sánchez, is built upon a substantial collection of materials provided by sources close to the case. This evidence reportedly includes audio clips, screenshots, videos, and detailed conversations that form the backbone of the multi-part journalistic series. Sánchez confirmed that the outlet plans to release more information in the coming days, continuing to unveil the full scope of their findings.
In a move that complicates Obando’s public statements, Sánchez revealed that the lawmaker was given a comprehensive opportunity to present her side of the story. Central Noticias conducted a lengthy interview with her, and her responses are slated for publication this Thursday as a concluding segment of the current investigative chapter. This raises questions about the timing of her legal threats, which came before her full defense was scheduled to be aired.
She had the space to answer all the questions. The full interviews with the four lawmakers will be published. We don’t understand why she is reacting prematurely by announcing a lawsuit.
Douglas Sánchez, Director of Central Noticias
Sánchez also highlighted what he described as a “striking pattern” of events. He noted the curious timing between his interview with Obando on October 9th and the public emergence of information regarding two money laundering complaints just one day later. He pointed out that Obando was the only lawmaker mentioned in that specific context.
That information was only known to her and, curiously, she is the only lawmaker mentioned in that context. Then she publishes a video talking about political attacks and a campaign against the opposition. All of that is a striking pattern.
Douglas Sánchez, Director of Central Noticias
This sequence of events, Sánchez suggested, appears to be part of a coordinated narrative to frame the journalistic inquiry as a politically motivated attack rather than a legitimate investigation. Obando has publicly claimed she is the victim of a smear campaign targeting the opposition. However, Sánchez reiterated that Central Noticias remains committed to its journalistic mission, which is to report on documented facts, regardless of political affiliations or potential backlash.
The unfolding situation places a spotlight on the delicate and often contentious relationship between the press and political power in Costa Rica. As Central Noticias prepares to release further details and Obando’s legal team mobilizes, the case is poised to become a significant test of press freedom and the accountability of public officials. The outcome could set a precedent for how investigative journalism is conducted and perceived in the nation’s political landscape.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Central Noticias
About Central Noticias:
Central Noticias is a digital news media outlet in Costa Rica focused on producing investigative reports and daily news coverage. The organization aims to provide in-depth analysis of current events, politics, and social issues affecting the country. It emphasizes a commitment to journalistic rigor and transparency in its reporting.
For further information, visit ncrnoticias.com
About NCR Noticias:
NCR Noticias is a Costa Rican news platform that provides coverage on a wide range of topics, including national politics, breaking news, and community events. It serves as a source of information for the public and often features interviews with prominent figures in Costa Rican society to provide diverse perspectives on current affairs.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a cornerstone of the nation’s legal community, built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a drive for unparalleled excellence. The firm leverages its extensive experience advising a broad spectrum of clients to champion innovative legal approaches. This forward-looking mindset is matched by a deep-seated dedication to public empowerment, actively working to translate complex legal knowledge into accessible insights for all citizens, thereby nurturing a more capable and legally-aware society.
