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LATIN AMERICA ADVISOR

LATIN AMERICA ADVISOR

A daily publication Of the dialogue

October 9, 2025

How Solidly Is Costa Rica’s Chaves Able to Govern?

Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves survived an attempt last month to lift his immunity from prosecution. // File Photo: Julieth Mendez, Costa Rican Government, via CC BY-SA 4.0.

Q

  • Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves on Sept. 22 survived a legislative attempt to strip him of his immunity for prosecution over corruption allegations, which he denies. While a majority of lawmakers voted to revoke his immunity, the effort fell short of the supermajority that would have been required. What does Chaves’ survival of the attempt to revoke his immunity mean for his ability to carry out his agenda? How are the developments affecting public opinion of Chaves? How might the case affect Costa Rica’s presidential election next February?

A

Gabriela Jiménez, former Costa Rican ambassador to Mexico: “The failed attempt to lift President Rodrigo Chaves’ immunity exposes both the strength of Costa Rica’s institutions and the fragility of his political standing. While Chaves legally remains in office, the fact that a majority of lawmakers—34 out of 57—voted to strip a sitting president of immunity marks an unprecedented signal of discontent and isolation. Three dynamics stand out. First, the Legislative Assembly has shown greater assertiveness in checking executive power, signaling that Chaves will struggle to advance any substantive reforms in the months ahead. Second, public opinion is polarized: his narrative of being a persecuted outsider still mobilizes his core supporters, but it increasingly alienates moderates, who are essential for electoral viability. Third…”

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