Cyprus

(Famagusta Gazette) - An indication of the local political map is emerging as the first exit poll results are published this evening, with candidates backed by the ruling party of Demitris Christofias AKEL taking a beating.

Opposition backed candidates were set to win an overwhelming victory in local elections, with final results expected at 10pm (9pm CET).

Early exit poll results broadcast by Sigma show that Nicosia mayoral candidate Constantinos Yiorkadjis, who enjoys the support of DISY, DIKO and EVROKO, appears to have won the job, ousting long time incumbent Eleni Mavrou, who was backed by AKEL.

Yiorkadjis is the stepson of former president Tassos Papadopoulos and is the son of former Interior Minister Polykarpos Yiorkadjis, who was assassinated in 1970.

In Larnaca, independent candidate Andreas Louroutziatis who was supported by DISY, EDEK and EVROKO has beaten well known politician Nicos Kleanthous, who was backed by AKEL and DIKO.

In Strovolos, three-term incumbent mayor Savvas Eilophotou is seen losing to newcomer Lazaros Savvides, an independent backed by DISY. Eliophotou was backed by AKEL.

The poll also shows Paphos candidates Phidias Sarikas and incumbent Savvas Vergas running tiny margin in one of the tightest elections ever.

Exit poll results (19% Ayia Napa / 38% Paralimni), suggest incumbent Antonis Tsokkos holds Ayia Napa and incumbent Andreas Evangelou loses Paralimni - final results at 10pm.

Polls closed at 6pm.