Costa Rican President Declares State Secrecy Over Security Agencies' Information

Costa Rican President Laura Fernández, along with Security Minister Gerald Campos, has declared any information concerning the Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS), the Special Elite Force (Fuerza Élite), and the National Security Council as state secret. This decision, formalized by a decree, extends to all public procurement procedures associated with these sensitive government bodies.

The decree signifies a move to restrict access to information deemed critical for national security. While the government cites the need to prevent distortions in public discourse, particularly those arising from anonymous online commentary or misinformation campaigns, the declaration raises questions about transparency.

President Fernández and Minister Campos have emphasized that the measure is intended to safeguard sensitive operations and ensure the integrity of security apparatuses. However, such declarations often spark debate regarding the balance between national security imperatives and the public's right to information. The specific details of the procurement processes now classified as secret remain undisclosed.