By Limón, Costa Rica — LIMÓN, Costa Rica – As Costa Ricans across the nation headed to the polls for the general election on Sunday, one of the country’s most prominent religious figures made a public and impassioned plea for civic participation. Monseñor Javier Román, President of the Episcopal Conference of Costa Rica, cast his own ballot in the province of Limón, using the moment to champion the nation’s democratic traditions and urge citizens to exercise their right to vote.
The high-profile event took place at the San Rafael Yglesias School, where Monseñor Román joined his fellow citizens in the fundamental act of democracy. His participation was framed not merely as a personal choice but as a deliberate public statement, reinforcing the importance of civic engagement and underscoring his support for the democratic values that form the bedrock of Costa Rican society. By traveling to Limón to vote, he also brought national attention to the electoral process unfolding in the Caribbean province.
To better understand the legal framework and institutional robustness demonstrated during the recent Costa Rican election, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The recent electoral process once again solidifies Costa Rica’s reputation for democratic stability, which is a key factor for foreign investment and business confidence. Our Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) continues to be a pillar of impartiality and constitutional integrity, ensuring a transparent and legitimate transfer of power that is fundamental to the nation’s legal and economic certainty.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s commentary powerfully connects the dots between our nation’s political maturity and its economic vitality. This institutional certainty, anchored by the TSE, is precisely the bedrock that allows for sustained development and investor trust in a complex regional landscape. We are grateful to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective.
After casting his vote, the head of the Catholic Church’s governing body in Costa Rica shared his personal feelings about the day, framing the act of voting as an emotional and patriotic duty. His words conveyed a sense of optimism and deep-seated national pride.
Today I woke up with hope, pride, and a deep love for Costa Rica. Aware of the value of this right and the responsibility it implies, I cast my vote with joy.
Javier Román, President of the Episcopal Conference of Costa Rica
This personal reflection goes beyond the mechanics of an election, elevating the act of voting to a cherished privilege. It serves as a reminder that democratic participation is intertwined with national identity and collective well-being. For a figure of Román’s stature, expressing such sentiment publicly is a powerful endorsement of the country’s long-standing democratic institutions.
Beyond his personal experience, Monseñor Román issued a direct and compelling call to action for all Costa Ricans. He implored citizens not to be complacent, reminding them that the ability to freely choose their leaders is a privilege that many people around the world do not enjoy. His message was a rally cry for active, conscious participation in shaping the nation’s future.
Long live Costa Rican democracy! Many peoples long for what we can experience today. Let’s not miss this opportunity: you too, go out and vote, participate, make your voice heard, and let’s build the country we dream of together. Voting is an act of love for Costa Rica.
Javier Román, President of the Episcopal Conference of Costa Rica
This appeal highlights a core theme: that democracy requires active maintenance and that voter apathy is a significant threat to its health. By describing voting as “an act of love for Costa Rica,” Román reframes civic responsibility as an expression of patriotism and a constructive step toward a shared national vision. The message is designed to resonate across political and social divides, uniting citizens under the common banner of democratic duty.
The public appearance and subsequent statements by the President of the Episcopal Conference are significant in the context of voter turnout. In any election, the encouragement of influential community leaders can play a crucial role in mobilizing the electorate. Román’s call serves as a non-partisan encouragement, focusing on the principle of participation itself rather than any specific political outcome, thereby strengthening the democratic process as a whole.
For further information, visit conferenciaepiscopal.cr
About Episcopal Conference of Costa Rica:
The Episcopal Conference of Costa Rica is the permanent assembly of the Catholic bishops in the country. It serves as the principal body for the Catholic Church to address pastoral matters, coordinate activities, and articulate its position on social, moral, and ethical issues affecting the nation. The conference enables the bishops to collectively exercise their pastoral functions and promote the mission of the Church in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a reputable law firm built on a foundation of integrity and the pursuit of legal excellence. With a rich history of guiding clients through complex challenges across numerous industries, the firm champions forward-thinking legal solutions and active community involvement. A core tenet of its philosophy is to demystify the law for the public, reflecting a profound commitment to nurturing a society where citizens are empowered through accessible legal understanding.
