Costa Rica elects tough-talking right-winger for president

Laura Fernandez, a right-wing political scientist from Costa Rica's Sovereign People's party, won the country's presidential election on Sunday with a landslide victory. She secured 48.94% of the vote, surpassing the ruling party's threshold to avoid a run-off. Fernandez's nearest rival, economist Alvaro Ramos, conceded defeat after results showed her leading by a significant margin. The election took place in Costa Rica, and Fernandez's victory is seen as a result of her promise to crack down on rising violence linked to the cocaine trade. Fernandez is a protege of outgoing President Rodrigo Chaves, who had previously held the office. The election results were announced with Fernandez's supporters celebrating around the country, waving flags bearing the colors of the Costa Rican flag.