Candidate tough on crime wins Costa Rica presidential election

Laura Fernández has won Costa Rica's presidential election, positioning her to become the country's second female president. Preliminary results indicate that she secured 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 Fernández's ruling party surpassed the 40 percent threshold necessary to avoid a runoff election. This decisive victory reflects a shift in Costa Rica's political landscape, steering it further to the right, as noted by various sources. Fernández, a right-wing populist and political scientist, campaigned on a platform focused on addressing rising drug-related violence, particularly linked to the cocaine trade. Her tough stance on crime resonated with voters who are increasingly concerned about safety and security in the nation. The election outcome is significant not only for Fernández 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 Fernández 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.