"Dry"  Law is Ridiculous and Antiquated, Critics Say
Come the election weekend, Costa Rica becomes dry for three days - that is there will be no sale of supermarkets, liquor stores etc. and no sale or consumption in bars and restaurants either. It is a law that many feel has now become ridiculous and old.

The law prohibits the sale of all alcohol products Saturday, the day before the election (Feb. 4), Sunday, election day (Feb. 5) and Monday, the day after the election (Feb. 6).

Come midnight Friday night the entire country become dry until the stroke of midnight three days later, which some critics say spurs the illegal sale of liquor, including some taking in more than they should.

The law goes back to the days when Costa Ricans got very expressive during the election and fueled with alcohol many a political arguments would turn violent. The law was introduced to avoid the violent arguments before the election and reprisals of the outcome by those who insisted on getting drunk and venting their opinions.

Retailers and bar owners say that the prohibition hurts them financially.

To ensure that retailers and bars adhere to the prohibition, the Fuerza Pública will be visiting all bars and "taping" liquor cabinets and beer coolers and dispensers. Where that is not practical, the entire premises are shut down. Supermarkets cordon off the area where they normally display their liquor products.

Fines for disobeying the police order can be high, including the possibility of losing the liquor license.

Visitors to Costa Rica during the election weekend may find it strange that they cannot buy and consume an "imperial" - Costa Rica's favourite beer - during a meal. But that is the law and it will stand this election.