San José mayor, Libertarian Movement Party leader announce bid for president

San José Mayor Johnny Araya, who announced his intentions to run for president in 2014, is facing pressure from leaders in his own party for not resigning his position as mayor to show he’s serious about running for president.

Rodrigo Arias and Fernando Berrocal, possible presidential candidates for the National Liberation Party, denounced Araya’s candidacy this week, according to Spanish-language station Radio ADN.

Arias is the brother of former president Oscar Arias (1986-1990 and 2006-2010). Berrocal previously served as public security minister from 2006-2008 under Oscar Arias.

Libertarian Movement Party leader Otto Guevara will also make a run for president in 2014. This will be Guevara’s fourth attempt at the Casa Presidencial, having campaigned in 2002, 2006 and 2010.

Guevara’s party remains under investigation for alleged misuse of public campaign funding. The prosecution has not yet made it known if Guevara is tied to the accusations.