The final debate before Costa Rica’s national elections brought together five presidential candidates in a televised event moderated by journalist Ignacio Santos. The debate, organized by Teletica Canal 7, took place ahead of the February 1 vote.
Participants included Álvaro Ramos from the National Liberation Party (PLN), Claudia Dobles representing the Citizen Agenda Coalition (CAC), Ariel Robles from Broad Front (FA), José Aguilar Berrocal of Avanza, and Juan Carlos Hidalgo from the Social Christian Unity Party (PUSC). Laura Fernández, candidate for the Sovereign People’s Party (PPSO), did not attend due to scheduling conflicts, according to Santos.
Santos announced during the broadcast that this would be his last time moderating a debate after 15 years in the role. This news surprised many viewers who speculated about his future at the network.
Throughout the two-hour debate, candidates exchanged critiques and attempted to distinguish their platforms. Juan Carlos Hidalgo sought to present his party as fiscally responsible and supportive of economic activity. Ariel Robles encouraged voters—especially undecided young people—to choose an alternative to traditional political parties. Claudia Dobles positioned herself as the only candidate likely to continue campaigning after Sunday and claimed she was best placed to defeat Laura Fernández, who leads in recent polls. Álvaro Ramos emphasized internal renewal within PLN and rejected proposals to suspend individual rights as a response to organized crime. He also stressed his commitment to democracy: “I am very respectful because there was a referendum and I do believe in democracy, José. So I do believe that if in the referendum it was voted in favor, we democrats respect the will of the people,” said Ramos.
Ramos clarified that his criticism of free trade agreements stems from a preference for multilateral or regional arrangements over bilateral treaties. He cited academic studies supporting this view.
José Aguilar Berrocal used his inclusion—secured by improved polling numbers—to argue that established parties had failed during their time in government.
Claudia Dobles challenged Aguilar Berrocal’s outsider image by pointing out his previous work with governments he now criticizes: “in coordination with the same governments that today you point out as responsible for Costa Rica’s problems.”
Ariel Robles questioned Aguilar Berrocal’s positions on vaccines, climate change, gentrification, and emergency powers during pandemics. Robles asked: “Can you imagine José Aguilar Berrocal as president during the pandemic?”
As the debate concluded at 10 p.m., each candidate delivered closing remarks aimed at convincing undecided voters and urging participation on election day.
Outside Teletica’s studios, supporters gathered for a multi-party caravan celebrating democratic engagement.
