Image reproduced from 三立新聞網

The Attorney General's Office of Costa Rica has accused President Chavez of corruption, claiming he coerced a telecommunications company to provide a $32,000 kickback to his friend and former image consultant Cruz, in exchange for securing a contract with the Central American Economic Integration Bank. This allegation represents a significant political crisis for the country.

The prosecution has requested the Supreme Court to revoke Chavez's criminal immunity to ensure a fair trial for the corruption case. On the 1st, the Supreme Court made an unprecedented decision, agreeing to the prosecution's request, and has urged Congress to revoke Chavez's immunity. Similarly, Culture Minister Rodriguez is also facing a comparable process.

According to Costa Rican law, public officials accused of corruption can face up to 8 years in prison. Currently, the opposition holds a majority in Congress, complicating Chavez's situation significantly.

On the 2nd, Chavez held a press conference where he alleged that the actions of the prosecution and the Supreme Court are politically motivated attacks aimed at undermining his proposed reforms. He stated, “The Supreme Court and the prosecution are not seeking justice; they are seeking revenge, and I am proud to have provoked this revenge.”

Having assumed office in 2022, Chavez, an economist by training, is legally barred from seeking re-election. However, there are rumors that he might run for Congress in 2026, and his strong populist strategies appear favorable in opinion polls.

Chavez is known to respect Salvadoran President Bukele and has even sent his Minister of Justice to investigate a controversial mega-prison in El Salvador that houses gang members. These actions and comments contribute to the uncertainty surrounding Chavez's political future and are likely to draw significant attention both domestically and internationally.