Flanked by students, executives, political leaders and other supporters of the Central American Free-Trade Agreement with the United States (CAFTA), former Production Minister Alfredo Volio yesterday launched the “ Alianza Ciudadana Por el Sí ” (“Yes on CAFTA Citizens' Alliance ”). The organization will spearhead campaign efforts in favor of the controversial trade pact as Costa Ricans prepare for a September referendum to decide its fate.
Volio, who resigned from his Cabinet position in April to head the alliance, said the group represents the broadest coalition in Costa Rican history.
Its National Council, most of whose members attended the press conference at Pueblo Antiguo in the National Amusement Park in west San José comprises many of the usual pro-CAFTA suspects – the heads of business chambers and the legislative leaders from parties favoring the agreement, for example – but also a few unusual faces, such as student leaders from the overwhelmingly anti-CAFTA public universities.
Former electoral rivals said they're setting partisan politics aside for the cause.
“We're taking off our Libertarian Movement shirts, and putting on our ‘Yes (to CAFTA)' shirts,” said former Libertarian presidential candidate Otto Guevara, a National Council member.
Asked to reveal details on the planned campaign and its financing, Volio was vague, refusing to estimate the cost of the effort.
“The idea is open participation,” he said, mentioning possible debates, home visits and forums on CAFTA. “We'll have many varied activities.” |
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