Costa Ricans vote on outgoing president's conservative populist program

Costa Rican voters are set to decide between continuing the policies of outgoing conservative populist Rodrigo Chaves by electing his selected successor — or giving a new chance to traditional parties seeking to shed a reputation as being self-serving. The Central American nation's recent crime surge could influence the decision. Laura Fernández, Chaves’ former minister, promises to continue his policies and leads in polls. Sunday will determine if she secures 40% of the vote to win outright or faces a runoff on April 5. Costa Ricans will also elect a new National Assembly. Chaves’ party hopes to gain seats but may not achieve a supermajority. Experts say the election represents a choice between radical change and reform.