Costa Rica: Conservative Laura Fernandez wins election

Laura Fernandez, a right-wing populist and political scientist, has declared victory in Costa Rica's presidential election, positioning her to become the country's second female president. Preliminary results indicate that Fernandez won by a significant margin, securing 48.94 percent of the votes with 81.24 percent of polling stations reporting. Her nearest rival, centre-right economist Alvaro Ramos, conceded defeat as the ruling party surpassed the 40 percent threshold necessary to avoid a runoff election. This decisive victory reflects a shift in the political landscape of Costa Rica, steering it further to the right. Fernandez's campaign focused on addressing the rising drug-related violence, particularly linked to the cocaine trade, which has become a pressing issue in the nation. Her tough stance on crime resonated with voters concerned about safety and security. The election outcome is significant not only for Fernandez and her political party but also for the broader context of Latin American politics, where right-wing populism has been gaining traction. The implications of her presidency may extend beyond Costa Rica, as many Central American countries are grappling with similar issues of violence and crime related to drug trafficking. The election of Fernandez may influence regional dynamics and responses to governance and crime in the coming years. This victory marks a notable moment in Costa Rican politics, reflecting changing voter sentiments and priorities.