Turkish Cypriots to elect new leader with peace talks in view

By Euronews

Published on 26/04/2015 - 4:32 GMT+2

Share this article

Turkish Cypriots are heading to the polls on Sunday to elect a new leader in a tight run-off between the outgoing conservative leader and a left-wing candidate who is promising to revive stalled peace

Turkish Cypriots are heading to the polls on Sunday to elect a new leader in a tight run-off between the outgoing conservative leader and a left-wing candidate who is promising to revive stalled peace talks on the divided island.

Voters have to decide between Dervis Eroglu who won 28% of the first round vote or the independent candidate Mustafa Akinci who came in second with 26%. Though its not sure how far the 40% abstention rate could impact the second round vote.

Cyprus was split during a Turkish invasion in 1974. The division of the island is a source of tension between Greece and Turkey and reunification talks have proved fruitless over many years.

Though the UN hopes to re-open talks next month.

Go to accessibility shortcuts

Comments

Turkish Cypriots to elect new leader with peace talks in view

Turkish Cypriots are heading to the polls on Sunday to elect a new leader in a tight run-off between the outgoing conservative leader and a left-wing candidate who is promising to revive stalled peace

Read more

Greek Cypriot man who 'accidentally' entered the north arrested on suspicion of drugs trafficking

UK trade envoy to Turkey resigns over visit to occupied northern Cyprus

Extent of damage from Cyprus wildfires becoming clear as blazes brought under control