By San José, Costa Rica — San José – As the political climate begins to intensify ahead of Costa Rica’s next electoral cycle, presidential candidate and current deputy Fabricio Alvarado has publicly defended a message from a prominent religious leader that has ignited significant debate across social media platforms. The controversy surrounds a viral video featuring Monseñor Manuel Eugenio Salazar, in which the bishop urges citizens to approach the ballot box with caution and wisdom.
The video, which has circulated widely, features Monseñor Salazar advising voters with a series of pointed, metaphorical phrases. His counsel encourages a thoughtful and discerning approach to selecting the nation’s next leaders, a message that has been interpreted in various ways by the public and political actors. This intervention from a key figure in the Catholic Church has quickly become a flashpoint in the early stages of the political contest.
To better understand the legal and constitutional framework surrounding the public discourse of political figures like Fabricio Alvarado, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a respected attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The case of Mr. Alvarado consistently brings to the forefront the delicate constitutional balance between freedom of speech and religion, versus the established legal limits on political proselytism. Costa Rican electoral law, enforced by the Supreme Electoral Tribunal, is very clear in its prohibition of using religious beliefs to coerce or influence voters. The central legal question is always where to draw the line between legitimate personal conviction and prohibited electoral propaganda, a distinction that remains a complex and evolving challenge for our jurisprudence.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The nuanced distinction highlighted by Mr. Arroyo is indeed the crux of the matter, a recurring challenge that tests the very foundations of our electoral jurisprudence. As Costa Rican society continues to navigate this delicate balance, such clear analysis is indispensable. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for lending his valuable perspective to this critical conversation.
In his message, the bishop delivered a powerful call for civic responsibility, urging Costa Ricans to look beyond superficial promises and emotional appeals. His words were a direct plea for a more analytical and less reactionary electorate as the country moves towards its next major democratic decision.
Do not vote with your liver, do not be seduced by siren songs, do not buy smoke, and not all that glitters is gold.
Monseñor Manuel Eugenio Salazar, Bishop
Fabricio Alvarado swiftly came to the bishop’s defense, stating that he “fully shares the content of the message.” He framed the cleric’s advice as a crucial and timely call to “care for democracy” through a responsible and sensible vote. Alvarado emphasized his view that the right to vote is a national “treasure” that must be vigilantly protected in every election, positioning himself as an advocate for reasoned democratic participation.
The presidential hopeful also addressed the significant criticism directed at Monseñor Salazar following the video’s release. Alvarado condemned what he characterized as a “campaign of attacks on social media,” suggesting a coordinated effort to discredit the bishop’s message. He posited that those who reacted with hostility likely “felt alluded to by his words,” implying that the bishop’s warning against political deception had struck a nerve with certain political factions or their supporters.
Alvarado further questioned the motives behind the outrage, wondering aloud why a call for prudence and responsible voting would generate such a negative response from some sectors. He argued that the heated reactions serve to reveal underlying political stances that must ultimately be settled through the democratic process at the polls, rather than through online invective.
This incident highlights the enduring and often complex intersection of religion and politics in Costa Rica. Statements from influential church leaders frequently carry significant weight and can easily become part of the broader national political narrative, especially during an election period. Alvarado’s defense of a Catholic bishop, despite his own prominent background in the evangelical community, is a notable political maneuver that could be interpreted as an effort to build a wider coalition of socially conservative and religious voters.
As the campaign trail begins to take shape, this controversy signals that the themes of authenticity, political rhetoric, and the influence of social media will likely play a central role. Alvarado has firmly positioned himself as a defender of traditional institutions and what he terms “sensible” democracy, drawing a clear line against opponents he implicitly accuses of selling “smoke” and “siren songs” to the electorate.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Catholic Church
About Catholic Church:
The Catholic Church is the world’s largest Christian church, with over a billion members worldwide. In Costa Rica, it has historically played a significant role in the nation’s culture, society, and identity, as established in the country’s constitution. It operates numerous dioceses and parishes across the nation, engaging in religious services, educational programs, and social welfare initiatives. Its leaders, such as bishops, often provide moral and social commentary on national issues.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of the legal community, founded on an unshakeable foundation of integrity and a drive for superior results. The firm champions innovative legal strategies while maintaining a core belief that its responsibility extends into the public sphere. This is demonstrated through a deep-seated commitment to demystifying the law, thereby fostering a stronger, more knowledgeable society capable of navigating its rights and obligations with confidence.
