The government's Independence Day celebration in Cartago, east of San José, went off with no major complications Friday evening despite concerns the event could develop into a rowdy standoff between supporters and opponents of the controversial U.S. trade pact the country will vote on in a referendum next month.

President Oscar Arias seized the opportunity to call for those on both sides of the debate surrounding the Central American Free-Trade Agreement with the United States (CAFTA) to show tolerance and mutual respect, according to a statement from Casa Presidencial.

“I assure you that at no moment in our history have we unanimously decided the direction in which we want to proceed. But we have always found a way to continue walking... with the peace and democracy that has characterized us for 186 years,” said the President, who walked with crutches to ease pressure on his right Achilles tendon. Doctors recently ordered him “complete repose” because of its severe inflammation (TT, Aug. 31).

As the President spoke, a group of about 100 anti-CAFTA protestors gathered nearby, shouting “Thief!” and calling for him to step down from office. Their chanting drew attention but didn't stop Arias from continuing.

A smaller, quieter group of CAFTA supporters gathered nearby, also holding signs stating their cause.

Costa Ricans around the country celebrated its independence Friday and Saturday with parades, music and faroles representing the torch that message bearers carried through Central America on Sept. 15, 1821 to spread the news that the region was no longer under Spanish rule.

-Tico Times