"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."
"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."
"Many Indigenous Kanaks still resent France's power over their islands and want fuller autonomy or independence, especially after unrest broke out due to fears of losing political representation."
In New Caledonia's local elections, non-independence parties solidified their dominance, particularly in the capital Noumea, where incumbent mayor Sonia Lagarde won 62 percent of the vote. The elections followed violent separatist unrest in May 2024. While non-independence candidates excelled in urban areas, pro-independence movements performed well in rural regions. The results come as France prepares to consider constitutional reforms regarding New Caledonia's status, amid ongoing tensions between Indigenous Kanaks and the French government over autonomy and representation.
Read at The Local France
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