AFP: Voters indifferent towards Russia's presidential elections 18 February

President Vladimir Putin's United Russia party was expected to win a majority of up to 65 percent of votes, a show of public support which Putin hopes to use as a mandate to retain influence after his second presidential term ends next year. The former World chess champion and arch Kremlin critic, Garry Kasparov accused the Russian authorities of "raping the whole electoral system." The Kremlin called the vote democratic and transparent.

Russia's presidential election is on Sunday, but in some parts of the enormous country voting has already begun. The ballot box is being delivered to the most remote corners by helicopter or snowmobile, to itinerant reindeer herders who roam the Arctic Circle.

Traditionally in Russia's Communist past the portraits of national leaders were swiftly replaced on the appointment of a new one but in the post-Soviet era, people seem to be jumping the gun.

Polish voters did away with two years of conservative rule on Sunday in a general election which handed power to the pro-business, Euro-friendly liberal opposition. The vote, which saw massive turnout, was viewed largely as a judgment against the Kaczynski twins -- the president, Lech, and prime minister, Jaroslaw -- who have run the right-wing government. Voiced report analyzing the results.

A week ahead of Russia's election, Moscow will host the third Millionaire Fair, which attracted 40,000 visitors last year. Here is where the seriously rich buy Carribean villas, diamond-studded mobile phones or private helicopters. Voiced report.

Lebanon's presidential election, having been postponed four times, is now to be held on Friday, just one day before the term of the incumbent, pro-Syrian President Emile Lahoud, runs out. It's difficult to detect any enthusiasm among Lebanese voters for their political establishment, or much hope that the vote will break the political deadlock paralysing the country. An AFPTV voiced report.

Italian voters Saturday mulled over their choice on the eve of an election that offers little hope for significant change as the country faces an economic slowdown and continued political instability.

Analysts say this Caucus night may be the most heavily attended in Iowa history.

The former Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov will not be able to take part in Russia's March presidential elections after the Central Election Committee of the Russian Federation voted for him to be banned. He has called on his supporters to boycott the poll.