Solis faces lame duck presidency in Costa Rica

Subject

The political travails of President Luis Guillermo Solis.

Significance

President Luis Guillermo Solis has suffered a series of political setbacks. He enters his second year in office weakened just as he needs to negotiate the passage of fiscal reform through the legislature. In addition, Costa Rica's economic performance remains lacklustre.

Impacts

• The resignation of the minister for the presidency will expose Solis to direct attacks from the opposition.
• Media reform will cease to be a priority, with Solis seeking to distance himself from botched draft legislation.
• Growth for 2015 will remain around 3.5% despite government attempts to boost economic activity.