As France held local elections on Sunday, the Pacific Ocean archipelago of New Caledonia, a French territory, saw parties opposed to independence strengthen their grip on the capital and surrounding region.
The second-round results consolidated their dominance in the most populous centres of the overseas territory, which has been politically polarised for years between pro- and non-independence parties.
This year’s local elections were the first since deadly separatist violence broke out in New Caledonia in May 2024.
In the capital Noumea, incumbent mayor Sonia Lagarde, aligned with the main non-independence bloc, won a decisive victory with 62 percent of the vote, securing 43 council seats. Turnout was 48 percent.
Non-independence candidates scored victories in the broader Noumea metropolitan area.
Around 64 percent of New Caledonia’s population lives in the greater Noumea region, which bore the brunt of the 2024 riots.
Outside the metropolitan region, results were mixed, with pro-independence movements doing well in several rural municipalities that traditionally lend them support.
France examines territory’s status
Both camps are looking to use the election results to bolster their positions as France’s parliament prepares to examine a constitutional reform that aims to have New Caledonia remain French but be declared a new state.
Home to around 270,000 people and located nearly 17,000 kilometres (10,600 miles) from Paris, New Caledonia is one of several overseas territories that remain an integral part of France.
It has been ruled from Paris since the 1800s, but many Indigenous Kanaks still resent France’s power over their islands and want fuller autonomy or independence.
The unrest in May 2024 broke out after Paris planned to give voting rights to thousands of non-Indigenous long-term residents. Kanaks feared this would leave them in a permanent minority, crushing their chances of winning independence.
As part of an agreement with Paris, New Caledonia residents will in future only be allowed to vote after having lived 10 years on the archipelago.
Under the deal, a “State of New Caledonia” would be enshrined in France’s constitution, and other countries could recognise such a state.
The deal also calls for an economic and financial recovery pact that would include a renewal of the territory’s nickel processing capabilities.
