Georgians vote in early presidential elections widely expected to be won by President Mikhail Saakashvili, who called the poll after suppressing opposition protests in November.

Political experts say Saakashvili may not avoid a run-off ballot in the contests against six opposition candidates, BBC reports.

The pro-Western leader wants not only to be re-elected but to prove his democratic credentials to his critics, while opposition parties have accused the authorities of preparing to rig the vote.

The polls suggest that Mr Saakashvili's closest rival will be Levan Gachechiladze, who is a wine businessman and independent MP chosen by the main opposition bloc as their candidate.

President Saakashvili came to power after the peaceful Rose Revolution in 2003 and called the current snap poll after violently crushing anti-government protests in November 2007.

Along with the presidential election, Georgians are being asked to vote on whether they should have a parliamentary election in the spring of 2008.

We need your support so Novinite.com can keep delivering news and information about Bulgaria! Thank you!