Costa Rican President Faces Criticism Over Remarks Potentially mocking Political Rival’s Speech
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Costa rica’s President rodrigo Chaves is facing mounting scrutiny after making remarks during a public address that many believe were intended to mock the speech patterns of political opponent, à lvaro Ramos, a presidential candidate for the National Liberation Party (PLN). The controversy underscores growing concerns about accessibility and respect for individuals with disabilities in Costa Rican politics.
President Chaves delivered a roughly 30-minute speech on Friday at the inauguration of the Civic Center for Peace in Santa Rita, San José de Alajuela. During the address, he leveled criticism against the Judiciary and the broader political establishment. He expressed a desire to witness Costa Rica “repudiate demagoguery, the false word, the unfulfilled promise, the dog’s swim and, above all, the tun tun step.†He than accompanied this statement with a gesture toward his mouth,adding,“And the tongue-twist talking straw,and you know what I mean.â€
The remarks quickly ignited debate on social media, with users questioning whether the president was deliberately imitating Ramos’s manner of speaking. Ramos, who was born deaf, learned to speak with support from the Fernando Centeno Güell special school and utilizes headphones to amplify sound.
As of Friday evening, the Minister of Interaction, Arnold Zamora, had not responded to requests for clarification regarding the scope of the presidentâ’s comments.
A History of Disrespect and Advocacy
This incident is not isolated.ramos has previously been the target of ridicule related to his hearing disability, both in public forums and online. During a debate organized by Repretel (Channel 6) earlier this week, a member of the audience repeatedly shouted a derogatory term at Ramos. The incident was captured on video and subsequently shared by the liberationist Youth alongside images of Ramos in a show of support.
The National Association of the Deaf (Anascor) swiftly condemned the behavior, issuing a public call for respect towards Ramos and the broader deaf community. victor Vargas, president of anascor, communicated through sign language, emphasizing the need to end the stigmatization and mockery. “I woudl like to clarify that he is a deaf person. I would like to ask for respect for him as a deaf person. I am also a deaf person, there are also other deaf people. Therefore, on this occasion, I ask for respect for him, for me and for others,†Vargas stated.
Vargas further explained that the deaf community employs diverse communication methods, including sign language, oralization, and other forms of expression. he highlighted the significant challenges faced by deaf individuals in accessing education and employment, emphasizing the dedication and perseverance required to overcome these barriers. “There has been sacrifice, suffering and struggle to access work and study. That is why I ask for respect from hearing people,†he saeid.
Previous Political Conflict
the current controversy is further complicated by a prior professional relationship between Chaves and Ramos. Ramos served as the executive president of the Costa Rican Social security Fund (CCSS) from May to September 2022, before being removed from his position by President Chaves after endorsing a salary increase for CCSS workers. Ramos publicly stated he accepted the dismissal “with great honor.â€
The unfolding situation raises critical questions about political discourse and the duty of public figures to foster inclusivity and respect for all citizens. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need to combat ableism and promote understanding within the Costa Rican political landscape.
