Full Breakdown
Laura Fernández Inaugurates Presidency, Retains Rodrigo Chaves in Dual Roles
5/9/2026, 7:09:12 AM
Inauguration and Immediate Power Structure
On 8 May 2026, Laura Fernández, a 39-year-old political scientist, was sworn in as Costa Rica’s president at the National Stadium in San José. In an unprecedented move, outgoing President Rodrigo Chaves was appointed as both minister of the Presidency and minister of Finance, extending his legal immunity for four years. She named second vice president Douglas Soto as ambassador to Washington, reinforcing U.S. ties.
Political Background and Legislative Majority
Fernández, candidate of the right-wing Sovereign People’s Party (PPSO), won the February 1 election in the first round, pledging continuity with Chaves. The PPSO secured 31 of 57 seats in the Legislative Assembly, giving the government an absolute majority, the first such sweep since 1990. The majority eases ordinary legislation, appointments and budgets, though constitutional reforms still need broader support.
International Delegations and Diplomatic Alignments
The inauguration hosted delegations from 71 countries and 18 international organizations, including U.S. envoy Kristi Noem, representing the Trump administration’s “Shield of the Americas” initiative, and Israeli President Isaac Herzog. Douglas Soto’s ambassadorship to Washington signals alignment with the United States, which recently agreed to receive up to 25 U.S. deportees weekly.
Security Agenda and Crime Policy
Fernández pledged a “war without quarter, a heavy-handed war against organised crime,” and named security minister Gerald Campos. The administration plans a maximum-security prison modeled on El Salvador’s CECOT centre and sweeping judiciary and security reforms. Officials cited 873 homicides in 2025, largely linked to drug-trafficking gangs, and called Costa Rica a logistical hub for drug routes to the United States.
Official Statements & Responses
Chaves denied wrongdoing in the investigations that led to his immunity extension, calling them “politically motivated.” Fernández called herself Chaves’ “heir,” emphasizing continuity in security and economic policy. U.S. officials highlighted the deportee agreement as part of broader migration-crime cooperation.
Criticism & Opposition
Human-rights groups warned the “third-country agreements” on deportees could strand individuals in nations where they lack ties and face inhumane conditions. Critics noted that granting Chaves dual ministerial authority challenges democratic norms, as consecutive presidential reelection is prohibited. The United States’ recent revocation of visas for several La Nación board members raised press-freedom concerns.
Data & Statistics
Legislative seats: PPSO 31/57
Economic indicators (2025): 4.6 % growth, debt reduced to 58.3 % of GDP, unemployment 6.3 %, poverty 15 %
Crime: 873 homicides in 2025
U.S. deportees: up to 25 weekly under the March agreement
Verbatim Quotes
- “a war without quarter, a heavy-handed war against organised crime” — Laura Fernández, President-elect
- “She describes herself as Former President Rodrigo Chaves’ heir.” — Laura Fernández
- “The Associated Press reported that the appointment gives Chaves a major role in Fernández’s government while also extending his immunity amid pending investigations, which Chaves has denied and described as politically motivated.” — Rodrigo Chaves, responding to investigations
- “Michael Soto, director of the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ), warned that Costa Rica is a logistical hub for drug trafficking.” — Michael Soto, director of the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ)
What’s Next
Upcoming actions include commencing construction of the maximum-security prison, advancing the announced judiciary and security reforms, and considering constitutional amendments that will require legislative support beyond the PPSO’s absolute majority.
