Laura Fernández Secures Majority Victory in Costa Rica Presidential Election

Laura Fernández of the Partido Pueblo Soberano won Costa Rica’s presidential election on 2 February 2026 with just over 48 % of the vote, avoiding a runoff and defeating runner‑up Álvaro Ramos of the Partido Liberación Nacional, who received 33 %. The election also gave the governing coalition an absolute majority in the 57‑seat Legislative Assembly, securing 31 seats.

Fernández was inaugurated the following day in a ceremony at the Basílica de los Ángeles, publicly dedicating her administration to “God and the Virgin of the Angels.” Her oath‑taking included prayers led by a Catholic bishop and an evangelical pastor, reflecting her personal faith. In her inaugural remarks, she highlighted priorities such as liberalising the market, enhancing security following the Bukele model, modernising the state, pursuing a 4‑day work week pilot, and launching infrastructure projects like an electric train and a “government city.” Observers noted the smooth electoral process and a voter turnout of 69.1 %.