• Laura Fernandez leads with over 48% of the vote in Costa Rica's presidential election.
• Fernandez aims to continue tough law-and-order policies set by her predecessor.
• She will be sworn in on May 8, 2026, and is the second woman to hold this position.

Laura Fernandez has officially won the presidential election in Costa Rica, securing a commanding lead with over 48% of the votes counted, well above the 40% needed for an outright win. The right-wing candidate from the governing Sovereign People's Party (PPSO) left her closest rival, Alvaro Ramos of the National Liberation Party, far behind, as he conceded defeat. Fernandez, who previously served as chief of staff to current President Rodrigo Chaves, plans to maintain his tough-on-crime policies that have been a significant concern among voters due to rising drug violence in the country, according to BBC and Reuters.

In her victory speech, Fernandez articulated a vision for a new political era in Costa Rica, describing the transition from the "second republic" and outlining a commitment to constitutional reforms aimed at enhancing security. She has expressed intentions to declare states of emergency in crime-ridden areas and construct a high-security prison, drawing inspiration from El Salvador's policies under President Nayib Bukele. Critics, however, have noted the potential implications for civil liberties, quoting Fernandez as saying, "Change will be deep and irreversible," according to Al Jazeera and Reuters.

With more than half of the votes counted and a significant victory margin, Fernandez confirmed she would not require a run-off election and expects to be sworn into office on May 8. She reemphasized her goal of engaging with various stakeholders in governance while asserting a strong stance against opposition efforts that might hinder her agenda. The president-elect, who also holds support from conservative Catholic and evangelical groups, remains a controversial figure, facing accusations of being a "puppet" for her predecessor. Nevertheless, she promises a government of dialogue and national harmony, according to BBC and Reuters.