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Costa Rican Presidential Election Results Still Close


Former Costa Rican President and Nobel Peace laureate Oscar Arias says it is too early to claim victory in Sunday's presidential election.

With 75 percent of ballots counted, the center-right Arias maintains a slender lead over his nearest rival, center-left candidate Otton Solis. Arias has won just over 40 percent of the vote, while Solis has exactly 40 percent.

A candidate needs to finish ahead and win at least 40 percent of the vote to avoid a runoff.

Solis's running mate, Epsy Campbell, says her party will seek a complete recount if Arias is declared the winner.

Turnout for Sunday's election was the lowest in Costa Rican history. Observers say voters are disillusioned after a string of recent scandals involving three ex-presidents.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.

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