Costa Rica: apathy rules

A low turnout is likely in national elections, to be held next February.

On on hand, many voters are poorly informed about their options, as several political parties have been unable to get their messsage across effectively, due to restrictive new campaign-financing rules.

A third of potential voters is likely to abstain from voting.

In addition, many Costa Ricans are disillusioned by what they perceive as widespread corruption and mismanagement by public officials.

Last week, parts of the capital, San José were paralyzed by demonstrations by various groups of protesters, who are concerned about proposed new taxes and high electricity costs, as well what they consider to be poor administration of public health-care services.

Costa Rica came last in Central America in the index of confidence in government, published by CID Gallup, and based on interviews done during the months of September and October.

Only one in three Costa Ricans believes that the current administration of Laura Chinchilla makes decisions, which benefit the public.