TV comic leads Ukraine’s presidential race ---------------------------- A popular comedian with no political experience is poised to win the first round of Ukraine’s presidential election, setting the stage for a runoff vote against the incumbent president ---------------------------- Volodymyr Zelenskiy Political novice best known for playing fictional president in hit TV series. Now bidding for role in real life ---------------------------- Petro Poroshenko Pro-Western tycoon in power since 2014 has seen popularity plunge amid graft claims and economic woes ---------------------------- Yulia Tymoshenko Former prime minister and key figure in Orange Revolution of 2004. Backs closer ties with EU and NATO ---------------------------- FIRST ROUND RESULTS (Almost 60 percent of votes counted) Volodymyr Zelenskiy – Servant of the People Party 30.2% Petro Poroshenko Bloc “Solidarity” 16.6% Yulia Tymoshenko – All-Ukrainian Union “Fatherland” 13% ------------------------------ Source / Pictures: Associated Press © GRAPHIC NEWS