President Rodrigo Chaves selects Taylor to lead CCSS amidst ongoing judicial investigations and institutional challenges.
In a significant cabinet reshuffle, Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves announced on Wednesday the appointment of Mónica Taylor Hernández as the new executive president of the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS).
This announcement follows the suspension of Marta Eugenia Esquivel, pending a judicial investigation related to the Caso Barrenador.
Taylor, who previously worked in President Chaves' office, brings to her new role a robust background in public service, with 24 years of experience.
A licentiate in Law, she also holds a master's degree in Public Law and has specialized studies in Tax Law.
Her tenure in public administration and expertise in law heralds a shift for the CCSS as she steps into leadership.
Until her new appointment, Taylor served directly under President Chaves, who acknowledged the valuable contribution she made to his office.
In a press conference, President Chaves remarked on the strategic importance of the CCSS, citing its critical role in the country's public welfare.
He praised Taylor's decision to accept the daunting task of heading the institution amidst turbulent times.
‘The Caja is the Caja,’ Chaves emphasized, underlining its essential service and acknowledging the disruption his office would face due to Taylor's departure.
Taylor succeeds Laura Ávila, who had been serving as interim president since November.
Ávila, formerly Chief of Staff to Esquivel, temporarily filled the role after Esquivel's suspension.
In her statement, Taylor expressed her commitment to tackling corruption and enhancing service delivery within the CCSS.
She declared her intentions to persist in infrastructure development and service improvement, pledging to address the long-standing issues faced by the institution.
‘I am honored, capable, and ready to serve my country,’ Taylor asserted, highlighting her dedication to what she described as
Costa Rica's most crucial public institution.
This leadership change comes as the CCSS board remains incomplete, and it is part of broader efforts to address administrative challenges within the organization.
This story is developing, and further details are expected as Taylor assumes her new role.