KAZAKHSTAN-VOTE-ASTANA

(FILES) picture taken 12 June 2005 shows the 97 metres (320 feet) steel tower in the center of Astana. The science-fiction like tower is the symbol of Kazakhstan’s new capital, but also high temple of a personality cult dedicated to Nazarbayev, who has ruled the former Soviet republic for 16 years and looks sure to win re-election on Sunday. When visitors place their fingers in the mould, patriotic music — with words penned by the president himself — thunders from hidden speakers and a futuristic chandelier flashes. AFP PHOTO / STANISLAV FILIPPOV