Polls open in New Caledonia’s first provincial elections since 2019

New Caledonia is holding its first provincial elections since 2019, with polls opening on Sunday morning. Approximately 2,500 police officers were deployed to ensure security and monitor polling stations across the French-ruled Pacific archipelago. Voters will elect 76 councillors for three provincial assemblies, with 54 of these elected officials becoming members of the territory's congress, its main governing body. The election, which was delayed from its originally planned 2024 date due to violent unrest, is considered crucial for future discussions with France regarding the territory's status. New Caledonia, home to a diverse population including Indigenous Kanaks and those of European origin, has been a French overseas territory since 1946 and the subject of a long-standing dispute over France's involvement in its affairs.

New Caledonia is holding its first provincial elections since 2019, with polls opening Sunday. These elections will determine the balance of power in the French overseas territory ahead of new negotiations with France regarding its status, with independence remaining a key issue. Approximately 192,000 voters will elect 76 councillors for three provincial assemblies, with 54 of them becoming members of the territory's congress. The vote follows the rejection of a proposed accord by the main pro-independence group and comes after recent riots in 2024. France has deployed law enforcement and plans to resume negotiations on the territory's future next month.