Referendum in New Caledonia: massive participation at midday
By midday, 49% of those registered had already voted “yes” or “no” in the 2nd referendum on New Caledonia's independence from France, October 4, 2020. Theo Rouby / AFP
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2 min
Some 180,000 voters registered on the special list in New Caledonia vote this Sunday, October 4 for the referendum on the independence of "Caillou" vis-à-vis France.
This is the second time in two years in this isolated archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean to vote.
In November 2018, the first self-determination referendum produced the “no” to independence with 56.4% against 43.6% for the “yes”.
This year, at midday, participation is massive, with 49% instead of 41% in 2018.
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With our correspondent in Nouméa,
Julien Sartre
When you want to
vote on the independence
of New Caledonia, you have to be patient.
In the calm and under a beautiful sun, the queues in front of the polling stations last several hours since the opening everywhere in Nouméa, the capital.
The voters are numerous and determined.
"
I voted 'no' because I am French and I want to stay that way,"
says Kevin, 27, who votes in the multi-ethnic district of the Vallée des Colons.
I think the no will win out.
I especially hope.
Because otherwise ... I don't know how we're gonna end.
"
"
True respect
"
The “yes” to Kanak independence must be found in another district: in Montravel, where there are mainly working classes and representatives of the indigenous people.
Mel is Kanak, he has his flag and his Kanaky t-shirt.
His vote is obvious: “
Today, I vote 'yes' for the country to advance better.
Peace, prosperity, respect, true respect.
That's all, it's simple.
"
Later in the afternoon, Mel will go with the other separatists to demonstrate and display their Kanaky flag in the streets.
Then the wait for the result will begin.
►
See also: New Caledonia: voters divided on the eve of the 2nd referendum on independence
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