Political controversies in El Salvador and Costa Rica

Political controversies have emerged in El Salvador and Costa Rica involving allegations of misconduct and institutional pressure.

In El Salvador, Deputy Claudia Ortiz reported that the Vamos party suspended her membership rights. Ortiz claims the move is retaliation for her criticisms regarding internal election management and her support for petitions to hold elections for party authorities. She noted that the suspension prevents her from competing for the Vamos General Secretariat.

In Costa Rica, Deputy Fernando Obaldía faced allegations of sexual harassment and abuse from his secretary, leading to calls for official investigations. Subsequently, Álvaro Ramírez Bogantes, floor leader of the National Liberation Party, confirmed that political pressure was exerted during a legislative vote concerning the continuity of Magistrate Julia Varela. Ramírez stated, “Here pressures exist,” suggesting these actions were linked to efforts by President Rodrigo Chaves to increase political control over the Judiciary, though he did not validate specific claims that deputies were offered financial assistance in exchange for votes.