Austrians are casting their ballots Sunday in a first round of presidential elections that could play a role in blocking or advancing the country's shift to the right. 
Social democratic incumbent Heinz Fischer will retire in July after having served 12 years in office. 
Former Green party leader Alexander Van der Bellen, far-right Freedom Party legislator Norbert Hofer and the independent former Supreme Court chief Irmgard Griss are top contenders to succeed Fischer, according to the (dpa). 
They have scored between 22% and 25% each in recent surveys. 
Although it is mostly a ceremonial role, the Austrian president also chooses the chancellor and swears in the cabinet after parliamentary elections. 
Neither of the three is likely to win a majority on Sunday. The two candidates with the most ballots will therefore enter a run-off election in May.

Source: QNA