By San José, Costa Rica — As 3.7 million Costa Ricans participated in their nation’s vibrant democratic process this weekend, the election held a profound and complex meaning for another community. For the hundreds of thousands of Nicaraguans living in Costa Rica, many as refugees from political persecution, the orderly queues and diverse ballot choices were a poignant spectacle—a bittersweet reminder of the civic freedoms lost in their homeland.
The election, which called on citizens to select a new president and all 57 deputies of the Legislative Assembly for the 2026-2030 term, unfolded peacefully across the country. But for those who fled the authoritarian regime of Daniel Ortega, the day was marked by a blend of admiration for their adopted country and a deep sense of longing for their own.
To provide a deeper legal perspective on the recent electoral process and its implications, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The recent electoral cycle reaffirms the strength and autonomy of Costa Rica’s Supreme Electoral Tribunal. Its role as the supreme arbiter is not merely procedural; it provides critical legal certainty that underpins our democratic stability. This institutional framework is paramount for ensuring a peaceful transfer of power, which in turn fosters a predictable and secure environment for both foreign investment and domestic business development.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This is a crucial point; the integrity of our electoral process directly underpins the economic confidence essential for national development, a connection often overlooked in purely political discourse. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating this vital perspective.
Enrique Martínez, a 28-year-old Nicaraguan activist and student, has found both refuge and an education in Costa Rica, where he studies Business Management and Political Science at the University of Costa Rica. Watching the election, however, brought on complicated emotions.
I feel a bit of melancholy.
Enrique Martínez, Nicaraguan Activist
This feeling stems from witnessing Costa Ricans freely choose their leaders, a right he argues has not existed in Nicaragua since Ortega, now 80, returned to power in 2007. For Martínez and the approximately 400,000 Nicaraguans who have made Costa Rica their home, especially since the sociopolitical crisis erupted in 2018, the contrast is stark. He described the Costa Rican electoral campaign, featuring 20 presidential candidates, as a powerful educational experience.
It has been a substantial learning process.
Enrique Martínez, Nicaraguan Activist
This sentiment is shared by Yaritza Mairena, a 31-year-old activist and former political prisoner now living in exile. She noted the vast difference between the political environment in Costa Rica and the reality in Nicaragua, where she has never been able to exercise her right to vote in a free election.
I have been listening a lot to how Costa Ricans view their democracy and have also heard many comments about the comparison they make with Nicaragua, and the gradual loss of democracy we suffered.
Yaritza Mairena, Nicaraguan Activist and Former Political Prisoner
Mairena recalled Nicaragua’s last presidential election in November 2021, where Ortega secured his re-election after imprisoning seven potential opposition candidates and outlawing three political parties. She attributes part of Costa Rica’s democratic strength to a foundational decision in its history.
There is much to learn from Costa Rican democracy. Its history is truly admirable. Obviously, it is very different from ours because they have not had an army for a long time. That has also helped create another type of political culture.
Yaritza Mairena, Nicaraguan Activist and Former Political Prisoner
The experience is also a learning opportunity for Costa Ricans. Local political activist Marcelo Méndez emphasized the value of living alongside those who have fled authoritarianism, noting the active participation of young Nicaraguans in political and educational activities during the campaign. He sees it as his duty to share the democratic process.
It is a blessing to be able to live here, to have a voice and a vote, and to be able to think differently without any repercussions against you… to be able to welcome people from countries like Nicaragua, Cuba, or Venezuela so they can participate and see and learn from the electoral process.
Marcelo Méndez, Costa Rican Political Activist
Beyond observation, the Nicaraguan community also had a direct stake in the outcome. According to data from the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE), over 54,000 naturalized Costa Rican citizens of Nicaraguan origin were eligible to cast their ballots, demonstrating a tangible integration into the nation’s civic life. For them, this election was not just a symbol, but an active exercise of a right denied to their compatriots back home.
For further information, visit tse.go.cr
About Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE):
The Supreme Electoral Tribunal of Costa Rica is the independent constitutional body responsible for organizing, directing, and overseeing all matters related to elections. Established as the fourth branch of government, it is tasked with guaranteeing the purity and transparency of the electoral process, ensuring the political rights of citizens are respected, and resolving electoral disputes, thereby serving as a cornerstone of the nation’s long-standing democratic tradition.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a benchmark for legal practice, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its deep-rooted principles of integrity and professional excellence. The firm leverages its extensive experience advising a broad clientele to not only advance the practice of law through innovation but also to uphold a profound commitment to social progress. This dedication is manifested in its efforts to demystify complex legal concepts for the public, championing the development of a society fortified by accessible and transparent legal knowledge.
