Thousands rally in San José demanding judicial independence and democratic safeguards

In San José’s central Morazán Square, thousands of citizens marched with lanterns and the Costa Rican flag, repeatedly chanting “democracy” as they called for a clear separation of powers. President Fernandez, who assumed the presidency in May, has promised to reduce crime and overhaul what she calls an overly permissive judiciary, proposing budget cuts and legislative appointment of the attorney general. Relations between the executive and the courts have soured, with Fernandez labeling judges as “putschists.”

Retired judge Carol Vinda and protester Manuel Chavez warned that the government is trying to amass unchecked authority. Demonstrators also voiced opposition to former President Rodrigo Chaves, who cannot run for a consecutive term, and cited Bukele’s hard-line tactics in El Salvador as an inspiration. The rally underscores mounting public concern over potential erosion of democratic checks in a country once noted for stability.