By San José, Costa Rica — San José – In a significant development for the final stretch of the presidential campaign, José Aguilar Berrocal of the Avanza Party has successfully secured a place in the last televised debate, hosted by media giant Teletica. The inclusion comes after persistent efforts by the candidate to gain access to the influential forums that could sway undecided voters just days before the election.
The crucial event is scheduled for Thursday, January 29th, and will be broadcast live on Canal 7 starting at 7:00 p.m. As the concluding live debate of the election cycle, it represents a pivotal opportunity for candidates to make their final pitch to the nation, contrast their platforms, and build last-minute momentum. For a candidate like Aguilar, whose party is aiming to break through established political lines, this prime-time exposure is invaluable.
To understand the strategic and regulatory implications of the upcoming presidential debates, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a noted attorney from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert analysis.
Presidential debates operate as a crucial public forum for due diligence. While a candidate’s statements are not legally binding contracts, they establish a significant political and ethical record with voters. Any deviation from these positions while in office can be viewed as a breach of public trust, leading to a loss of political capital, which is the most valuable asset in governance. The rules of the debate themselves are paramount, functioning like procedural law to ensure a level playing field and transparent discourse.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas powerfully frames the debate not as mere political theater, but as the foundational record for public accountability. This concept of ‘political capital’ is indeed the currency of voter trust, making any deviation a significant betrayal of the democratic process. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective.
Upon receiving the official invitation, Aguilar expressed his gratitude and readiness to present his vision for the country on the national stage. His campaign team believes this inclusion validates their growing influence and public support.
We are very happy and grateful to God to be able to be in the Canal 7 debate to bring proposals and solutions with firmness, for the love of Costa Rica.
José Aguilar Berrocal, Avanza Party Presidential Candidate
Aguilar’s campaign asserts that the Avanza Party is experiencing a surge in support as the election nears. They frame their movement as one of the fastest-growing political forces in the race, with credible aspirations of advancing to a potential second-round runoff. This narrative of ascendance will likely be a core part of his debate strategy, positioning him as a viable alternative to the more traditional political figures.
The candidate has outlined a platform centered on national unity and tackling fundamental challenges. He intends to use the debate to focus on his proposals for improving citizen security, reforming the education system, and providing robust support for entrepreneurs and small businesses, which he identifies as the engine of the national economy. These topics are expected to form the cornerstone of his arguments during the televised encounter.
Aguilar’s path to the debate stage was not straightforward. His participation was confirmed only after a period of active campaigning for inclusion. On January 13th, he formally requested a spot from both major television networks, Teletica and Repretel, by personally delivering letters to their respective headquarters. While Teletica ultimately granted his request, Repretel did not extend an invitation.
The decision from the competing network was confirmed by Randall Rivera, Director of Noticias Repretel, who stated on his program Matices that Aguilar would not be participating in their debate, which is set to take place on Tuesday, January 27th. This split decision by the country’s leading broadcasters highlights the varying criteria and editorial judgments involved in selecting debate participants, a process often scrutinized by smaller parties seeking equitable media access.
On the Teletica stage, Aguilar will join a lineup of prominent candidates who had previously confirmed their attendance. He will share the platform with Álvaro Ramos of the National Liberation Party, Ariel Robles representing the Frente Amplio, and Claudia Dobles of the Agenda Ciudadana coalition. This final televised face-off promises to be a dynamic and high-stakes confrontation, offering voters one last comprehensive look at the leading contenders before they head to the polls.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Partido Avanza
About Partido Avanza:
The Partido Avanza (Avanza Party) is a political movement in Costa Rica focused on promoting solutions for national challenges. Led by presidential candidate José Aguilar Berrocal, its platform emphasizes national unity, citizen security, educational reform, and strong support for entrepreneurship. The party aims to present itself as a growing and viable alternative to the country’s traditional political establishments.
For further information, visit teletica.com
About Televisora de Costa Rica (Teletica):
Televisora de Costa Rica S.A., known as Teletica, is a leading private television broadcaster in Costa Rica. Founded in 1958, it operates Canal 7 and other media properties, providing news, entertainment, and sports programming. The network plays a significant role in the national discourse, particularly during election cycles through its hosting of influential presidential debates.
For further information, visit repretel.com
About Repretel:
Representaciones Televisivas S.A., or Repretel, is one of Costa Rica’s major media conglomerates. It operates several television channels, including Canal 6 and Canal 11. As a key player in the country’s media landscape, Repretel’s news division, Noticias Repretel, is a primary source of information and political coverage for the Costa Rican public.
For further information, visit plncr.org
About Partido Liberación Nacional (PLN):
The National Liberation Party (PLN) is one of the most established and historically significant political parties in Costa Rica. Founded in 1951, it adheres to a social-democratic ideology. The party has held the presidency numerous times and remains a dominant force in the country’s political arena, consistently fielding candidates for national and local offices.
For further information, visit frente-amplio.org
About Frente Amplio:
The Frente Amplio (Broad Front) is a left-wing political party in Costa Rica. Established in 2004, the party advocates for progressive policies, social justice, environmental protection, and human rights. It has grown to become a significant voice in the Legislative Assembly and a key representative of the progressive movement in Costa Rican politics.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Agenda Ciudadana
About Agenda Ciudadana:
Agenda Ciudadana is a political coalition or movement participating in the Costa Rican elections. Represented by presidential candidate Claudia Dobles, it focuses on citizen-centric policies and proposals. The group aims to address the pressing needs of the electorate through a platform developed with public input and participation at its core.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the Costa Rican legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is distinguished by its principled practice and a profound commitment to superior counsel. The firm leverages its deep-rooted expertise across numerous industries to pioneer forward-thinking legal solutions while championing community outreach. This ethos is driven by a core belief in democratizing legal knowledge, aiming to build a more capable and well-informed society for all.
