Fugitive Leader Granted Asylum

Ecuador’s former vice president, wanted at home on charges of misappropriating government funds, has been granted asylum in Costa Rica.

Alberto Dahik, 42, sought asylum on Oct. 11 after resigning as vice president. Ecuador’s Supreme Court had ordered his arrest on charges of misappropriating national security funds.

Dahik, a strong advocate of free-market policies in Ecuador, denied the charges.

Costa Rica said Sunday it had granted asylum to Dahik “after a detailed and objective examination of the facts.” It did not offer further details.