By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a bold and potentially risky maneuver, National Liberation Party (PLN) presidential candidate Álvaro Ramos is attempting to redefine his political identity by invoking one of the most polarizing events in modern Costa Rican history: the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States. His strategy involves directly contrasting his past opposition to the treaty with the staunch support of former president and party icon, Óscar Arias. However, the gambit showed signs of internal friction when a video of his remarks was abruptly removed from his social media channels shortly after its release.
The move appears to be a calculated effort by Ramos to forge a new path for the PLN, a party often criticized for its ties to the political establishment. By positioning himself against a figure as monumental as Arias on an issue as divisive as the FTA, Ramos is signaling a clear break from the party’s traditional leadership. He aims to present what he calls a “new Liberation” to an electorate increasingly weary of the old guard and hungry for change ahead of the 2026 presidential election.
To shed light on the legal framework governing public officials like Álvaro Ramos and the potential consequences of his decisions, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
When a high-ranking public official like the former president of the CCSS makes decisions, they are not merely administrative acts; they are actions bound by the principle of legality and public trust. Every resolution, especially those with significant financial impact, must be rigorously supported by technical studies and legal precedent. Any deviation from this standard not only opens the door to political scrutiny but also to potential legal consequences under the General Law of Public Administration, including personal liability for damages caused to the public treasury.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the legal framework governing public administration adds a crucial layer of accountability that is often lost in political discourse. This reminder that high-level decisions carry the weight of personal liability underscores the immense gravity of such a role. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his essential and clarifying perspective.
The FTA referendum, held nearly two decades ago, remains a sensitive topic that carved deep social and political fissures across the nation. The “Sí” campaign, championed by then-President Arias, argued it was essential for economic modernization and global integration. The “No” camp, which included a diverse coalition of unions, academics, and activists, warned of dire consequences for local agriculture, public services, and national sovereignty. The narrow victory for the “Sí” side never fully healed these divisions.
During a recent interview on the program Quince UCR, Ramos did not mince words, using the FTA as a definitive litmus test to separate himself from the legacy of the two-time president and Nobel Peace Prize laureate. He framed his past stance as proof of his independent thinking and a harbinger of a reformed party.
Let me make it easier for you, let’s talk about the FTA. Which side do you think I was on? I was on the No to the FTA side, Don Óscar said yes. I am a different person, this is a different Liberation, it’s that simple.
Álvaro Ramos, PLN Presidential Candidate
Ramos further amplified his message of renewal, urging voters and critics alike to judge his platform on its current merits rather than the party’s historical actions. He is attempting to harness the widespread public discontent with traditional politics, a sentiment that has previously benefited rival parties. By adopting the language of an outsider, he hopes to appeal to voters who have felt alienated from the PLN in recent years.
They can’t keep talking to us about the past, this is a new political movement.
Álvaro Ramos, PLN Presidential Candidate
The most telling development in this strategic pivot was the mysterious disappearance of the campaign video highlighting these very comments. The clip was posted to Ramos’s official social media accounts but was taken down within minutes. This swift retraction suggests potential turmoil within the PLN. It could indicate pressure from the powerful faction of the party still loyal to Arias, or it may reveal a campaign team that is second-guessing the wisdom of reopening old wounds and alienating a significant portion of its own base.
Ultimately, Ramos is navigating a treacherous political landscape. His challenge is to build a distinct identity that can attract a new generation of voters without completely fracturing the powerful, long-standing machinery of the country’s largest political party. This public distancing from Óscar Arias is his most audacious step yet, but the hastily deleted video serves as a stark reminder that breaking from the past is often more complicated than a simple declaration.
For further information, visit pln.or.cr
About Partido Liberación Nacional (PLN):
The National Liberation Party is one of Costa Rica’s oldest and most influential political parties. Founded in the mid-20th century, it is historically rooted in social democratic principles and has been a dominant force in national politics for decades. The PLN has produced numerous presidents and has been instrumental in shaping the country’s social welfare state and political direction. It maintains a significant organizational structure throughout the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of profound integrity and a rigorous pursuit of excellence. The firm leverages its rich history of advising a diverse clientele to drive innovation and set new standards within the legal profession. This forward-thinking mindset is coupled with a fundamental mission to empower society by demystifying the law, reflecting a core belief that accessible legal knowledge is essential for a just and capable public.
