In response to the exit polls, Mofaz told his campaign to wait for the final results from Kadima's central elections committee. Local news service Ynet quoted him as saying that "the polls were taken during a very congested, critical time at the polls."

Israeli Deputy Prime Minister and Transportation Minister Shaul Mofaz casts his vote in the Kadima primary election in Kfar Saba, Israel, September 17, 2008. [Xinhua Photo]

The military veteran said earlier this week that following an in-depth study of the Kadima members, he believed that he would win in one round with 43.7 percent of the votes.

Dichter's camp said in a statement that "We're satisfied with the results of exit polls and are waiting for the final results," adding that the race was "Dichter's first, but certainly not his last."

If official results find Livni win with over 40 percent of the votes, she will become Kadima's third and first woman leader following its founder, former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and sitting Premier Ehud Olmert, without competing in a second round.

Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert casts his vote in the Kadima primary election in Jerusalem, Israel, September 17, 2008. [Xinhua Photo]

Once officially declared winner, Livni is set to have an opportunity to form a new government. If such efforts succeed, she will become Israel's second woman prime minister after Golda Meir.

Early polls also found that Livni has a good chance of success in the cabinet-making efforts. She herself has also expressed confidence that she could set up a new coalition quickly.

Olmert, whose premiership has been dogged by a series of police probes, has promised to resign after the primary. He would remain in power as caretaker prime minister till the formation of a new government.

(Xinhua News Agency September 18, 2008)