Background on President Rodrigo Chaves
Rodrigo Chaves is the current President of Costa Rica, set to leave office on May 8. He is ineligible for immediate re-election and has been leading a political movement in the country. His administration has faced scrutiny over potential electoral campaign interference and calls for political continuity.
The Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones’ Request
In early October, the Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE) requested the removal of Chaves’ constitutional immunity to investigate him for alleged violations of electoral law during the final months of his term. These violations include breaching the requirement for neutrality in electoral campaigns.
Chaves’ Response to the Investigation Attempt
President Chaves described the investigation as “an attempt at a coup,” claiming it was intended to undermine his political movement and pressure the population to secure a broad legislative majority for deep political reforms between 2026 and 2030.
Insufficient Votes for Desafuero
On Tuesday, Chaves narrowly escaped a second attempt at desafuero (stripping of immunity) when the Asamblea Legislativa failed to secure the necessary 38 votes out of 38 for a qualified majority required in cases of immunity removal. Only 35 legislators voted in favor, while 21 defended Chaves’ immunity.
TSE’s Statement on the Matter
The Tribunal electoral stated, “The sanction process for beligerance is temporarily suspended. It will resume once Chaves’ immunity expires upon the conclusion of his presidential term.”
Political Implications and Ongoing Elections
Although a majority of opposition legislators leaned towards lifting Chaves’ immunity, there wasn’t enough support to ensure his removal. Some legislators, including officialists, opposition allies, and independents, reportedly aimed to prevent Chaves from becoming a “martyr” and boosting the electoral prospects of the ruling party.
Laura Fernández, Chaves’ ex-minister and the official presidential candidate, holds a significant lead over her 19 competitors according to various polls. However, these polls also highlight the uncertainty of at least 40% of potential voters. Fernández needs to secure at least 40% of valid votes to avoid a runoff election.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main issue at hand? The Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones sought to investigate President Chaves for potential electoral campaign interference and violations of neutrality.
- Why did Chaves describe the investigation as an “attempt at a coup”? He believed it was intended to destabilize his political movement and pressure the population for electoral gains.
- What was the outcome of the second desafuero attempt? The Asamblea Legislativa failed to secure the required votes for Chaves’ removal, resulting in his continued immunity.
- What are the implications for upcoming elections? The official presidential candidate, Laura Fernández, holds a lead but must secure at least 40% of valid votes to avoid a runoff.
