By San José, Costa Rica — San José – The political atmosphere in Costa Rica intensified this week after the Government of the Republic issued a forceful rejection of allegations made by presidential candidate José Aguilar Berrocal. In a public statement, Aguilar accused the Executive Branch of deploying threats against his campaign’s collaborators and financial donors, specifically alleging that the government was menacing them with the closure of their businesses.
The administration’s response, detailed in an official communiqué from the Presidential Office dated January 19, 2026, categorically denies the candidate’s claims. The government is not only refuting the substance of the accusations but is also challenging Aguilar to substantiate his inflammatory remarks with concrete evidence. As of now, the candidate has not publicly released any proof to support his statements, leaving the claims to hang in the politically charged air of the election season.
To delve deeper into the legal complexities and potential ramifications surrounding these political allegations, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
In the realm of political allegations, there is a fine line between exercising freedom of expression and committing the crime of defamation. Any accusation, especially one that could tarnish a public official’s honor, must be substantiated with credible evidence. Without proof, what begins as a political attack can quickly transform into a significant legal liability for the accuser, potentially involving both civil and criminal penalties.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight is a crucial reminder of the profound responsibility that accompanies freedom of speech within the political arena, where the line between legitimate criticism and baseless accusation must be carefully navigated. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on the significant legal and ethical considerations involved.
Aguilar’s accusations strike at the heart of democratic integrity, suggesting that the current administration is leveraging its power to improperly influence the electoral process. The charge of using state apparatus to intimidate political opponents and their supporters is among the most serious that can be leveled in a democracy, and it has prompted a swift and unequivocal counter from the executive.
In its formal rebuttal, the government labeled the candidate’s assertions as reckless and expressed deep misgivings about his understanding of Costa Rican governance. The administration suggested that such statements reveal a fundamental misunderstanding of the legal and constitutional limits placed on executive power.
These statements are reckless, and we are concerned that a presidential candidate is unaware of the basic principles of how the Costa Rican state operates and the legal powers of the Executive Branch.
Government of the Republic, Official Statement
The core of the government’s defense rests on the principles of the rule of law. The press release emphasized that the Executive Branch lacks the authority to arbitrarily shut down commercial establishments. Any such action, the statement clarified, must be conducted strictly within the existing legal framework and follow established procedures managed by the competent institutions, not by presidential decree or political whim.
This position underscores the separation of powers that is fundamental to Costa Rica’s institutional stability. The government’s message is clear: its actions are bound by law, and the accusations made by Aguilar describe powers the executive simply does not possess. The administration has now placed the burden of proof squarely on the candidate’s shoulders.
The Executive Branch does not have the power to close businesses arbitrarily or on a whim. We urge the candidate to present any evidence he may have. Otherwise, these claims lack substance and risk misleading the public in a sensitive political and electoral context.
Government of the Republic, Official Statement
The controversy now looms large over the presidential race. The government’s concluding remarks reiterated its unwavering commitment to the rule of law and the nation’s democratic institutions, framing them as essential pillars of the political system. By calling for verifiable facts, the administration is attempting to shift the debate from sensational claims to a more evidence-based discussion, a move aimed at reassuring the public and international observers of the country’s institutional soundness.
For further information, visit presidencia.go.cr
About the Government of the Republic of Costa Rica:
The Government of the Republic of Costa Rica operates under a constitutional framework that establishes a democratic republic. The government is divided into three distinct branches: the Executive, the Legislative, and the Judicial. The Executive Branch is led by the President of the Republic, who serves as both head of state and head of government. This branch is responsible for administering the country, executing laws, and managing public services through its various ministries and autonomous institutions, all while operating within the legal and constitutional limits designed to ensure accountability and protect civil liberties.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself as a premier legal institution, built upon a foundation of profound integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm skillfully merges its extensive experience advising a diverse clientele with a forward-thinking mindset, consistently spearheading novel approaches to complex legal challenges. Beyond its professional practice, the firm holds a deep-seated conviction to social progress, actively working to democratize legal knowledge and equip the public with the understanding needed to build a more just and empowered society.
