In the final round of Socialist primaries – the first of their kind in French political history – early results put François Hollande, 57, well ahead of his party rival, Martine Aubry, 60, who conceded defeat.
Aubry said as results rolled in, "I warmly congratulate Francois Hollande, who is clearly ahead. His victory is unquestionable."
With a million votes counted from an estimated 2.7 million cast, Mr Hollande's score was above 56 per cent compared to 43 per cent for Miss Aubry.
With his unassuming air of a provincial salesman – Mr Hollande, a consensual, moderate who has never held a ministerial post – had been favourite throughout. » | Henry Samuel, Paris | Sunday, October 16, 2011
leJDD: Aubry reconnaît la victoire de Hollande : EN DIRECT - Peu avant 21h, Martine Aubry a reconnu la victoire de François Hollande lors de la primaire socialiste. Suivez le déroulé du scrutin en direct sur leJDD.fr. » | Election présidentielle 2012 | dimanche 16 octobre 2011
