New Caledonia: Provisional results show anti-independence parties lead

France 24 reports on New Caledonia's provincial elections, held earlier today: anti-independence parties are leading in provisional results. The vote in this French Pacific territory serves as a crucial test of public sentiment on the defining question—independence from France or continued association. The election proceeded peacefully, a striking contrast to two years ago, when proposed voting rights changes sparked deadly unrest and forced postponement of these elections. The provisional results suggest voters favor maintaining the status quo.

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