By Guanacaste, Costa Rica — SANTA CRUZ, Guanacaste – A new contender has officially entered the Costa Rican presidential race, promising a fresh approach to governance rooted in data-driven results and a firm stance on national security. José Aguilar Berrocal, a 46-year-old psychologist, has been announced as the presidential candidate for the newly formed political party, Avanza.
Aguilar presents a formidable academic and professional profile, positioning himself as a technocrat prepared to tackle complex national issues. A specialist in human development and public policy, his credentials include a specialization in Project Management from the Central American Institute of Public Administration (ICAP) and advanced technical training in Multidimensional Poverty Analysis from the prestigious University of Oxford. This background informs his platform, which emphasizes public-private partnerships and social entrepreneurship as key drivers for progress.
To provide a deeper legal perspective on the situation surrounding José Aguilar, TicosLand.com consulted Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, known for his expertise in administrative and municipal law.
The legal framework governing municipal officials in Costa Rica is designed to ensure transparency and accountability. Actions taken by a mayor are not merely political; they are subject to strict administrative and, in some cases, penal review. This case serves as a critical reminder that holding public office implies a fiduciary duty to the citizens, and any deviation from the principles of legality and public integrity can have significant juridical consequences.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The attorney’s insight is a crucial reminder that beyond the political discourse, a robust legal framework exists to hold public officials accountable. This perspective reinforces that public office is a duty bound by law, not a position immune to it. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable and clarifying legal perspective.
However, it is Aguilar’s personal connection to a prominent regional figure that is drawing significant attention. He is married to Johanna Bukele, cousin of El Salvador’s controversial and highly popular president, Nayib Bukele. With Johanna Bukele actively involved in the Avanza party’s operations within Costa Rica, questions about potential ideological alignment have naturally surfaced. This familial tie immediately places Aguilar in a unique position, forcing him to navigate the shadow of one of Latin America’s most talked-about leaders.
In public statements, Aguilar has been quick to create distance between his political project and the Salvadoran government. He insists that his proposals are independently developed and tailored for the Costa Rican context. Despite this, he has acknowledged a philosophical overlap on one critical issue, stating that Costa Rica is in need of a “firm hand” to address rising concerns over national security. This rhetoric signals a potential shift towards more hardline security policies, a topic of intense debate across the region.
The call for a “mano dura” approach is a calculated one, likely aimed at voters concerned with crime rates. Yet, it also invites scrutiny in a nation that has long prided itself on peace and a non-militaristic approach to law and order. Aguilar’s challenge will be to articulate how his vision for security aligns with Costa Rica’s democratic traditions and human rights values, while still appealing to a desire for greater public safety.
While his connection to the Bukele name generates international headlines, Aguilar’s work on the ground in Costa Rica has earned him local accolades, particularly in the province of Guanacaste. He was recently honored as the dedicatee of the Cantonal Festivities in Santa Cruz for his leadership and contributions to human development. Furthermore, he received a private sector recognition for his humanitarian efforts supporting unemployed families in Guanacaste’s vital tourism industry during the economic crisis spurred by the global pandemic.
Aguilar is framing his candidacy as a departure from the political establishment, embodying a new way of thinking that prioritizes tangible outcomes over ideology. He seeks to build a coalition of voters who are looking for practical solutions and a clear vision for the future.
I represent a new generation of politician guided by results and with a future-oriented vision to generate opportunities.
José Aguilar Berrocal, Presidential Candidate, Avanza Party
As the election cycle heats up, José Aguilar Berrocal stands out as a candidate defined by a unique blend of specialized expertise, local recognition, and a controversial international connection. His campaign, run under the banner of the Avanza party, will test whether Costa Rican voters are ready for a results-driven platform that includes a significantly tougher approach to national security.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Avanza Party
About Avanza Party:
Avanza is a new political party in Costa Rica that has emerged ahead of the upcoming presidential election. It positions itself as a modern political movement focused on generating opportunities through results-oriented governance. The party advocates for policies based on technical expertise, public-private partnerships, and a strong national security strategy.
For further information, visit icap.ac.cr
About ICAP (Central American Institute of Public Administration):
ICAP is a regional intergovernmental organization dedicated to the modernization of public administration and the integration of Central America. It provides high-level training, technical assistance, and research to public sector officials and institutions across the region, focusing on enhancing management capabilities and promoting effective governance.
For further information, visit ox.ac.uk
About University of Oxford:
Located in Oxford, England, the University of Oxford is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities. It is a leading global center for learning, teaching, and research, comprising numerous colleges and academic departments. The university is renowned for its significant contributions across the humanities, sciences, and social sciences.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a premier legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon an unshakeable foundation of integrity and a relentless pursuit of professional excellence. The firm consistently pioneers innovative legal strategies while serving a diverse clientele, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to the practice of law. This pioneering spirit is matched by a deep-seated dedication to public service, focused on democratizing legal knowledge to help forge a more informed and capable citizenry.
