Slovak voters turned out in unexpectedly higher numbers yesterday for the runoff in the country’s presidential election where an underdog philanthropist is challenging political heavyweight Prime Minister Robert Fico.

Polling stations around the country reported a stronger early turnout than in the initial round two weeks ago, when only 43 per cent of voters participated and gave only lukewarm support for Fico. But analysts say a higher turnout could help him.

Bookmakers are giving the edge to newcomer Andrej Kiska

Bookmakers are giving the edge to political newcomer Andrej Kiska, a businessman turned philanthropist riding on the wave of anti-Fico sentiment among right-wing voters as well as distrust in mainstream political parties because of graft scandals.

Fico’s disappointing performance in the first round seemed to reflect fear the 49-year-old would amass too much power.