Monseñor Manuel Eugenio Salazar Mora, bishop of the Diocese of Tilarán-Liberia, published a message on his official Facebook profile calling for citizen participation and informed voting ahead of Costa Rica’s national elections scheduled for February 1, 2026. The message included a statement rejecting all forms of dictatorship and emphasized the defense of democracy through voting.
The post followed controversy over two versions of a text attributed to Salazar that circulated on social media since January 1. One version contained a phrase rejecting dictatorships, while an official statement from the Diocese released Friday presented another version without that reference, stating that the original dated back to September 24.
Shortly before 8:30 p.m. on Friday, Salazar posted the full text titled “Christians also vote!” on his Facebook page. The message stated: “This nation was founded by Christian values. There is still faith in Costa Rica! There are still people who identify as Christian (Catholic and Protestant). Despite all problems, there is a moral reserve in the country! We are in an electoral process, a civic celebration in which we must all participate. Democracy is defended with participation and voting. Statistics and facts show that the Christian vote is decisive! Evangelicals and Catholics together are still the majority in Costa Rica! Formed and informed vote. Do not be seduced by ‘sirens’ songs.’ Do not buy smoke. Choose concrete and real solutions. Not everything that glitters is gold! Do not vote ‘with your liver.’ Reflect and analyze with family and friends respectfully. Violence only breeds violence. We need changes and to fight corruption, without dictatorships of any kind. In our case: vote consistently with our identity. Who best reflects your values? The homeland needs you at this vital juncture!”
Salazar’s direct publication clarified doubts about the authorship of the message after differing versions had circulated online.
In his text, Salazar called for broad electoral participation and highlighted what he described as the decisive role played by Christian voters in Costa Rican democracy.
He stated: “Democracy is defended with participation and voting” and added: “Statistics and facts show that the Christian vote is decisive.”
The message urged citizens to cast an informed ballot, warned against empty promises, encouraged respectful reflection within families, described this election period as a crucial moment for Costa Rica, advocated for change and fighting corruption without resorting to any form of dictatorship, and invited voters to choose candidates who reflect their personal values.
