International briefs: Niger

VOTERS in Niger yesterday chose between two candidates in a presidential runoff - a vote many hope will usher in democracy more than a year after soldiers blasted their way into the presidential palace and kidnapped the elderly president.

"Niger is returning to democracy. If we succeed in this election, we will have achieved a democracy that will give an example to Africa, the world and in particular to Nigerians," said junta chief and acting head of state General Salou Djibo as polls opened in the capital Niamey.

Some 6.7 million voters in the West African nation chose between two former prime ministers: a veteran opposition leader promising change and an ally of the ousted president calling for continuity.