Iceland’s yes campaign celebrates early referendum lead

Supporters of the yes campaign celebrated an early lead in referendum results from Reykjavík, while warning that the outcome could change repeatedly through the night, mbl.is reported.

The first figures from the capital’s two constituencies prompted loud celebrations at Hafnarhús, where the SJÁ movement was holding its election-night gathering. Infrastructure Minister Hanna Katrín Friðriksson was among the yes supporters celebrating the results.

“It is naturally very encouraging to see these figures from Reykjavík south,” Hanna Katrín told mbl.is. “But I suspect the night will be like this: up and down. This will be a roller-coaster ride.”

She said the main point was that voters had been given the opportunity to express their views on the issue and put European affairs on the agenda.

“We just hope for the best, as I assume the other side does as well,” she said.

Hanna Katrín also praised the campaign and voter turnout. “It has been a great campaign, great participation, and life is good,” she said.

Those attending the gathering celebrated by singing along loudly to songs including Gordjöss, Elli Egils and Titanium.