Thousands demonstrate in Costa Rica over proposed legal reforms

Thousands of Costa Ricans protested against President Laura Fernandez's proposed judicial reforms, which they fear could undermine democracy and the rule of law. Demonstrators gathered in San Jose's central Morazan Square on Monday, chanting "democracy" and waving the national flag. They demanded the separation of powers and criticized the government for allegedly undermining democracy.

Fernandez, who took office in May, campaigned on a promise to combat the surge in crime that has plagued Costa Rica, once considered Central America's safest nation. She vowed to reduce the judiciary's budget and proposed giving the legislature the power to appoint the attorney general. Tensions between the judiciary and the government have been escalating, with Fernandez referring to the judges as "putschists."

Carol Vinda, a retired judge, expressed her concerns, saying, "We have never experienced a situation like this, and there has never been such interference between the branches of power." Another demonstrator, Manuel Chavez, echoed similar sentiments, stating, "We must defend democracy, we cannot allow them to continue doing what this government is doing."

The proposed reforms have sparked widespread opposition, with one placard reading, "For respect of the powers of the Republic, long live Costa Rica." Another placard read, "Democracy yes." Demonstrators also chanted slogans opposing former President Rodrigo Chaves, who was barred from seeking a second consecutive term. Fernandez appointed Chaves as a super-minister in her "government of continuity."

Costa Rica, known for its stability and democracy, has recently become a key player in the regional drug trade, leading to a surge in murders. President Fernandez has cited the iron-fisted leadership of Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele as inspiration for addressing the issue, with Bukele locking up thousands of suspected gang members without charges.