Greek Cypriot opposition leader Mr Tassos Papadopoulos headed for a possible upset first round win in the island's presidential election today.
With nearly 90 per cent of votes counted, official results showed Mr Papadopoulos with 51.3 per cent of the vote compared to 39.01 percent for veteran incumbent Mr Glafcos Clerides.
If Mr Papadopoulos goes on to win 50 per cent or more of the total vote, the election would not need to go to a second round next Sunday as had been expected.
Mr Papadopoulos (69) would take over negotiations on behalf of Greek Cypriots for a peace plan by February 28th with Turkish Cypriots that could lead to reunification of the island.