New Caledonia’s provincial elections are a crucial test of the territory’s political future, with independence from France remaining the central issue. The possibility of independence from France remains the central political issue, with today’s vote taking place peacefully. The election comes two years after plans to expand voting rights to thousands of non-Indigenous residents triggered deadly unrest and forced the postponement of elections in 2024. France 24 International affairs editor Leela Jacinto gives further insights.