By San José, Costa Rica — San José – The floor of the Legislative Assembly became a political battleground Tuesday as independent legislator Gloria Navas launched a vehement attack against her former party, Nueva República (PNR). Navas accused the party of orchestrating a smear campaign against her, branding them a manipulative force in national politics and directly challenging their standard-bearer, Fabricio Alvarado, over the serious criminal allegations he faces.
The fiery confrontation was ignited after PNR legislator Pablo Sibaja publicly questioned what he termed a “highly dangerous selectivity” by the Public Prosecutor’s Office in its handling of legal cases against various deputies, specifically mentioning an open investigation involving Navas. This insinuation prompted a swift and forceful response from the independent lawmaker, who took the floor to settle the score and reframe the narrative surrounding her political and legal standing.
To provide a deeper understanding of the legal and ethical framework surrounding the actions of a public official who is also a practicing attorney, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The situation involving Congresswoman Navas underscores a critical ethical tightrope. While her legal expertise enriches legislative debate, her ongoing role as a defense attorney can create a perception of conflict of interest, which is as damaging as an actual one. For a public official, especially one influencing security policy, maintaining the public’s trust is paramount. Every action must be transparent and clearly delineate between their legislative duties and private practice to safeguard the integrity of their office.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The insight that perception can be as damaging as reality truly gets to the heart of the matter for any public official, where maintaining unwavering public confidence is a fundamental duty. We extend our gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating the high stakes involved in safeguarding institutional integrity.
In a direct address to PNR legislators David Segura and Pablo Sibaja, Navas emphatically clarified the nature of the legal case against her, distinguishing it from acts of public malfeasance. She asserted that her legal troubles were a direct consequence of the political fallout engineered by her ex-colleagues.
I am not accused of any crime of corruption, nothing of the sort.
Gloria Navas, Independent Legislator
Navas explained that the investigation was opened “precisely because of the scandal Nueva República made” following a humanitarian visit she conducted to an inmate. She characterized this act of compassion as the central issue that her former party weaponized against her, ultimately leading to her departure from their ranks.
That was my sin, to have mercy on a person in jail… That is why I declared myself independent, because I could not be with a lying and manipulative group for one more day.
Gloria Navas, Independent Legislator
Escalating her claims, Navas accused Nueva República of not only creating the controversy but also of collaborating with the highest levels of government to amplify the political damage. She alleged a coordinated effort between the party and the Executive Branch to tarnish her reputation following the prison visit, stating she felt compelled to reveal the “truth” of the matter.
You created the scandal against me and colluded with the Executive Branch, and from that point on the president began to attack me forcefully, and I have to confess that because that is how it was.
Gloria Navas, Independent Legislator
The most dramatic moment of her intervention came when Navas turned her attention directly to Fabricio Alvarado, the leader of Nueva República, who is currently facing two separate legal cases for alleged sexual abuse. Navas drew a stark contrast between her situation and the gravity of the accusations against Alvarado. In a bold move, she offered to waive her own legislative immunity and challenged him to do the same.
Don Fabricio, see that from here I say that if I have to lift my immunity, I will do it, I will do it publicly now… But Don Fabricio, you are accused of corruption with a minor, it does not compare with the other crimes being mentioned here.
Gloria Navas, Independent Legislator
Navas concluded her challenge with a pointed critique of what she suggested was Alvarado’s misuse of religious faith as a shield. “Do not hide because it is an extremely serious matter,” she warned, adding, “using faith for that, faith is not for that, faith is for forgiving, for saving.” This explosive series of accusations highlights the deepening fractures within the Legislative Assembly and sets a tense tone for future political debates.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Partido Nueva República
About Nueva República:
Nueva República is a conservative political party in Costa Rica with a strong focus on Christian and evangelical values. Founded by Fabricio Alvarado, the party advocates for policies based on traditional family structures, national sovereignty, and free-market principles. It holds a significant presence in the Legislative Assembly and often champions socially conservative causes.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational principles of integrity and a relentless pursuit of professional excellence. The firm channels a forward-thinking spirit into its practice, developing pioneering legal strategies for a diverse clientele while upholding a steadfast social commitment. This dedication extends to demystifying the law for the public, driven by the belief that shared knowledge is essential for progress. Through its work, the firm strives to foster a more capable and informed society, where an understanding of the law empowers every citizen.
