Right-wing candidate Laura Fernandez is leading in Costa Rica’s presidential election. She has promised to tackle the rising violence linked to the cocaine trade, a major concern for voters. According to the Supreme Electoral Tribunal, with 81% of polling stations reporting, Fernandez received 48.9% of the votes. Her closest rival, economist Alvaro Ramos from the National Liberation Party, secured 33%.
Ramos conceded defeat on Sunday night. He emphasized the importance of constructive opposition, stating, “In democracy, dissent is allowed, and criticizing is allowed.” To win outright without a run-off, Fernandez needed at least 40% of the votes.
Fernandez, a 39-year-old politician, is the chosen successor of current President Rodrigo Chaves and aims to continue his strict security measures. Al Jazeera reporter Julia Galiano noted that peace and order were top concerns during the campaign, reflecting the people’s worries about safety. Costa Rica has been known as the “Switzerland of Central America,” thanks to its stable democracy and economic prosperity, but rising insecurity has shaken that perception.
In her previous roles as Minister of National Planning and as the Minister of the Presidency, Fernandez has built a platform around strong economic policies. Voters are hopeful that she can restore the country’s safety and stability.
Additionally, the country also voted for its 57-seat National Assembly. Although Chaves’s party is expected to gain seats, they may fall short of a supermajority, which would limit their power to appoint Supreme Court judges.
Recent surveys indicate that about 65% of Costa Ricans are concerned about crime, with many calling for stronger government action. As Costa Rica stands at this crossroads, the upcoming weeks will be crucial in shaping its future.
With approximately 3.7 million Costa Ricans eligible to vote, the desire for change is palpable. Fernandez’s approach to the growing security crisis will be closely watched, both by citizens and international observers.
For more insights, you can explore reports from trusted sources like Al Jazeera and follow ongoing coverage related to Costa Rica’s political landscape.
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News, Elections, Costa Rica, Latin America
