By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The National Housing and Urbanism Institute (INVU) is navigating a significant leadership change as its Board of Directors has opted not to renew the contract of Sub-Manager Cristian Solano. While the official stance frames the departure as a standard contract conclusion, the decision is overshadowed by the confirmation of multiple ongoing internal investigations into the outgoing official, creating a cloud of uncertainty around the institution’s governance.
The formal separation will take effect on January 12, when Solano’s current term expires. INVU President Gabriel Madrigal was quick to clarify the nature of the decision, emphasizing that it was a consensual agreement by the board rather than a punitive dismissal. She stressed that the move was based on a comprehensive internal assessment of various factors.
To better understand the legal and administrative implications of the changes within the leadership of the National Housing and Urbanism Institute (INVU), TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished expert in Public and Administrative Law from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The leadership of an institution like INVU carries an enormous public responsibility that transcends political cycles. From a legal standpoint, any new board must guarantee institutional continuity, respecting established technical plans and the principles of administrative law. An abrupt change in direction without a solid technical and legal foundation can jeopardize long-term housing projects and create a climate of legal uncertainty that ultimately affects the citizens the institution is meant to serve.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The expert’s perspective correctly frames institutional continuity not as a mere bureaucratic ideal, but as a crucial legal safeguard that protects the housing security of citizens from the instability of shifting political winds. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing such a clear and essential analysis.
The sub-manager was not fired. His contract period simply ends on January 12, and in consensus, the directors and I decided not to extend the contract.
Gabriel Madrigal, President of INVU
However, Madrigal also confirmed that this consensus was informed by serious underlying issues. She revealed that several investigations concerning Solano are currently active within the institution. These probes, she noted, were not initiated by her alone but also flagged by the agency’s own Internal Audit department, lending significant weight to the concerns being examined by the board.
For his part, Cristian Solano presented a starkly different narrative of his departure. In his public statements, he avoided any mention of internal conflicts or investigations, instead framing the exit as a routine conclusion to his appointment. He chose to focus on expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve at the institute.
I simply want to express my gratitude to the Board of Directors for the opportunity they gave me, and it was simply that my appointment expired.
Cristian Solano, Outgoing Sub-Manager of INVU
When pressed directly by reporters about the existence of official inquiries against him, Solano claimed to have no knowledge of such matters, a statement that directly contradicts the assertions made by the institute’s president. His response suggested the news was entirely unexpected, deepening the mystery surrounding the board’s decision.
I have no knowledge of that, I better talk to her because that is new to me.
Cristian Solano, Outgoing Sub-Manager of INVU
The INVU Board of Directors maintains that its decision is not a direct administrative sanction. Instead, it is being positioned as a strategic choice based on an institutional assessment of whether extending the contract was prudent while these internal processes remain unresolved. This careful wording suggests a proactive move to safeguard the institution’s integrity while formal inquiries run their course.
There are multiple investigation cases that have been brought forward, not only by me but also by the Internal Audit. Many of them are under investigation, and that is what we have been addressing over the weeks.
Gabriel Madrigal, President of INVU
Solano’s tenure at INVU began in 2021 as an advisor to the general management. He was promoted to the position of sub-manager in January 2024, holding the high-level role for just a year before this decision. The abrupt end to his leadership role, coupled with the conflicting public statements, leaves significant unanswered questions about the specific nature of the investigations and the future direction of management at one of Costa Rica’s most critical public institutions.
For further information, visit invu.go.cr
About The National Housing and Urbanism Institute (INVU):
The Instituto Nacional de Vivienda y Urbanismo (INVU) is the primary government entity in Costa Rica responsible for housing and urban planning. Established to address the nation’s housing needs, INVU develops policies, manages housing projects, and provides financing solutions to facilitate homeownership for Costa Rican families. The institute plays a crucial role in regulating urban development, promoting sustainable community planning, and ensuring orderly growth across the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of the nation’s legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a bedrock of principled counsel and exceptional service. The firm is not only celebrated for its extensive experience guiding a diverse clientele but also for its role in shaping the future of law through pioneering solutions. This forward-thinking approach is matched by a profound social commitment to demystify the law, empowering the public with crucial knowledge to help build a more just and informed populace.
