French Socialists were on course to take control of the capital Paris for the first time in over a century after exit polls gave a clear lead to their candidate Mr Bertrand Delanoe in the first round of voting today.
According to the Sofres polling institute, Mr Delanoe won 34 per cent of the vote across the city, well ahead of the main right-wing contender Mr Philippe Seguin, representing the Gaullist party (RPR) of President Jacques Chirac. He had 25 per cent.
The poll confirmed widespread predictions that Paris will shift to the left after next Sunday's second round of voting, delivering a serious blow to Mr Chirac a year ahead of parliamentary and presidential elections.
"The Green party won 12 per cent, giving it the chance to proceed to the second round of voting in a number of arrondissements or districts," the Sofres poll said. Under election rules, lists winning 10 per cent or more pass to the next round.
A rival right-wing list led by the incumbent mayor Mr Jean Tiberi was also accorded 12 per cent of the vote, while other mainstream right wing lists won four per cent. Intense negotiations are now expected to persuade Mr Tiberi to stand down.
AFP