Haiti votes in presedential elections

Political newcomer, entertainer Michel Martelly is thought to be slightly ahead but opinion polls show it is tight.

The run-off followed November’s turbulent first round which was marred by unrest and fraud allegations.

Martelly’s rival is the former first lady Mirlande Manigat. Both face a major challenge whoever wins, the impoverished country is still trying to recover from last year’s earthquake.

International donors are hoping Haiti can emerge from the vote with a stable and legitimate leadership able to steer a multi-billion euro reconstruction programme .

UN peacekeepers guarded voting centres in Port-au Prince to be on hand in case of violence between feuding rival supporters.

Preliminary results are due on March 31.

euronews