MAPUTO - Mozambicans started voting on Wednesday in a general election highly likely to deliver victory to the ruling party, Frelimo, which has governed the Southern African nation since 1975.

Four candidates are vying to replace President Filipe Nyusi, who is stepping down after serving two terms. The favorite is Daniel Chapo, 47, a lawyer running under the ruling party.

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He faces independent candidate Venancio Mondlane, former rebel commander Ossufo Momade, and opposition party leader Lutero Simango.

Counting will start after the polls close at 6 pm (1600 GMT), although it can take up to two weeks for official results.