New Caledonia’s pro-France leader, Alcide Ponga, has been elected President, marking a significant shift in the territory’s political landscape.
Ponga, 49, is the first indigenous Kanak to lead the pro-France Rassemblement-Les Républicains (LR) party. His election follows a failed vote earlier this week and comes with the backing of six members of the 11-member cabinet.
The decisive support came from Jérémie Katidjo-Monnier of Calédonie Ensemble and Petelo Sao of Eveil Océanien, alongside Ponga’s Loyalistes/Rassemblement caucus.
Pro-independence candidate Samuel Hnepeune garnered three votes, while two members from the Union Nationale pour l’Indépendance (UNI) abstained.
Ponga, Mayor of Kouaoua since 2014, brings deep political roots. “Restoring cooperation between Congress and government is my priority,” he told local media.
Challenges lie ahead, including appointing a vice president and assigning ministerial portfolios. The pro-independence camp has yet to nominate a vice-presidential candidate.
This election replaces the government of Louis Mapou, whose tenure faced crises including COVID-19, nickel industry turmoil, and the devastating May 2024 riots.
Ponga’s leadership begins amid pressing social and economic recovery needs, setting an important tone for New Caledonia’s 18th government.