President Laura Fernández defends security measures in Cartago

President Laura Fernández has defended the Ministry of Public Security following a contentious heavy police presence during the traditional Independence Eve lantern parade in Cartago. The administration maintains that strict security measures were necessary to protect thousands of attendees, including children, due to a recent rise in violent crime and drug trafficking in the area.

Opposition critics have labeled the security deployment as excessive. The debate highlights growing tensions regarding public safety and the government's response to local violence. Legal experts suggest that while enhancing public safety is a priority for protecting tourism and investment, the state must balance law enforcement modernization with the preservation of constitutional guarantees.