Costa Rica Congress Rejects Effort to Lift President Chaves' Immunity Amid Corruption Allegations

Costa Rica's Congress failed to achieve the supermajority required to strip President Rodrigo Chaves of his legal immunity amid corruption allegations, marking the first time the nation's legislature has debated such a measure against a sitting president. Prosecutors accused Chaves of abusing power by pressuring a communications company, funded through the Central American Bank for Economic Integration, to divert $32,000 to a political ally, charges he vehemently denies, calling them politically motivated. The vote concluded with 34 in favor and 21 against, falling four votes short of the 38 needed, allowing Chaves to avoid prosecution and continue his term. His supporters framed the vote as a defense of democratic order and separation of powers, while opponents saw the allegations as serious threats to accountability. Despite the controversy, Chaves has overseen significant economic progress, including reducing the fiscal deficit and lowering unemployment, though rising violent crime remains a pressing issue. Looking ahead, although Chaves cannot immediately seek re-election, his party plans to maintain power, and he may retain influence by joining the incoming administration under his party's presidential candidate, Laura Fernández.