Nobel Peace Prize winner Jose Ramos Horta has taken the lead in the East Timor presidential elections, a vote that has been widely viewed as peaceful and fair. VOA’s Nancy-Amelia Collins is in the capital Dili and brings us this report.

Jose Ramos Horta (file photo)
Early vote counting on Thursday showed the popular and charismatic prime minister, Jose Ramos Horta, held a significant lead in East Timor’s presidential election.

His opponent, Francisco “Lu’Olo” Guterres, is the speaker of the parliament and head of the Fretilin party.

The former independence fighter says whether he wins or loses, he will accept the results of the …

Voting has taken place in East Timor’s first presidential election since independence from Indonesia in 2002.

Many are hoping the vote will help resolve political tensions and instability in the troubled nation.

Prime Minister Jose Ramos-Horta, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, is one of eight candidates seeking to replace Xanana Gusmao, who is stepping down.

Clashes last summer between rival military factions resulted in street violence that left 30 people dead.

“I’m happy because we have the right to vote for people to choose the right president,” said Mr Gusmao as he waited to cast his vote.
Mr Gusmao has said he intends to run …