Costa Rican Authorities Probe Alleged Contract Killing Plot Targeting President

Costa Rica's government announced Tuesday that authorities had uncovered an alleged plot to assassinate President Rodrigo Chaves on the eve of the nation's pivotal presidential and legislative elections. The Directorate of Intelligence and National Security revealed the scheme based on information from a confidential source indicating that a hired assassin had received payment to carry out the attack. Security measures around the president have been immediately strengthened in response.

Attorney General Carlo Diaz confirmed that a female suspect is under active investigation, noting her significant presence on social media, though no further details were disclosed. Officials stressed there is no evidence connecting the alleged plot to the upcoming February 1 elections, where Chaves' right-wing party is widely expected to perform strongly. The president, constitutionally barred from seeking immediate reelection, has endorsed former minister Laura Fernandez as his successor.

Fernandez leads in recent polls with a hardline platform focused on combating drug traffickers, whom many blame for the recent rise in violence across the traditionally peaceful nation. The tough-on-crime stance mirrors approaches in neighboring countries and has fueled both support and controversy. Opposition voices have raised concerns about potential external election interference, particularly from El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele.

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Amid the unfolding drama, President Chaves has invited Bukele to Costa Rica for the groundbreaking ceremony of a new mega-prison project, directly inspired by El Salvador's notorious Terrorism Confinement Center. The facility has drawn international criticism for holding thousands without formal charges and reports of harsh conditions. The timing of the assassination plot revelation has heightened tensions as the country prepares for its democratic vote.

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