Costa Rican Supreme Court Seeks Revocation of Presidential Immunity
The Supreme Court of Costa Rica has made a groundbreaking appeal to Congress, representing the first time in this nation renowned for its democratic values that a request has been made to revoke the immunity of President Rodrigo Chaves amid corruption allegations.
President Chaves faces bribery accusations put forth by the Prosecutor’s Office. It is claimed that he pressured a company hired by the Presidency to pay $32,000 to Federico Cruz, who is both a former advisor and friend.
In a recent meeting, the Plenary Court of Justice voted 15 to 7 in favor of forwarding the request for lifting presidential immunity to the Legislative Assembly, according to judicial officials.
Chaves, 64 years old and recognized as a conservative economist, has been accused by Attorney General Carlo Díaz—who is currently engaged in a conflict with him—of coercing a communications services firm employed by his office into providing financial advantages to Cruz.
The Prosecutor’s Office states that bribery charges could lead to prison sentences between two and eight years for individuals who improperly persuade others to give or promise monetary benefits.
A press release concerning this situation noted that “the ultimate decision lies with” the members of Congress. Furthermore, the Full Court has also urged for Minister of Culture Jorge Rodríguez’s immunity to be rescinded on similar grounds.
Investigations indicate that the contract awarded during Chaves’ administration from 2022 to 2026 was funded through resources from the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) via what appears to be an improper procedure.
**President Asserts Innocence**
Currently, President Chaves has not provided any response; however, Rodríguez stated that he maintains “a clear conscience and an impeccable record.”
Judicial and electoral authorities are continuing investigations into Chaves regarding alleged political misconduct.
In numerous public appearances and official events, Chaves frequently criticizes opposition parties as well as judges, prosecutors, and legislators while attacking critical media outlets.
Although he is unable to seek consecutive re-election due to legal constraints—having previously served as a World Bank official—close associates have suggested he may contemplate running for a seat in the Legislative Assembly.
His image as a hardline populist leader appears favorable in opinion polls. Chaves has expressed ambitions for his party to achieve a supermajority in both presidential and legislative elections set for February 2026 so he can implement significant reforms throughout the country.
He has shown admiration for Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele and recently sent his Minister of Justice Gerald Campos on a visit to El Salvador’s high-security mega-prison—a facility criticized by human rights organizations due to its harsh conditions.
