With all ballots counted, 96.49 per cent were against independence, while only 3.51 per cent were in favour, from a turn-out of 43.90 per cent, according to New Caledonia's high commission.
New Caledonians have voted overwhelmingly to remain part of France in a third referendum that was boycotted by pro-independence groups, raising fears of new tensions.Pro-independence campaigners boycott the vote, demanding it be postponed due to COVID-19 deathsWith all ballots counted on Sunday, 96.49 per cent were against independence, while only 3.51 per cent were in favour, with turn-out a mere 43.90 per cent, according to the islands' high commission.
Observers say the result could exacerbate ethnic tensions, with the poorer indigenous Kanak community generally favouring independence over the wealthier white community. The boycott and crushing nature of the 'No' vote will raise fears of protests as well as questions about the democratic legitimacy of the referendum on the archipelago, 1,500 kilometres east of Brisbane.French President Emmanuel Macron noted "the high abstention rates" but said France could be "proud" of a more than 30-year process designed to settle the islands' status under which residents were asked in three separate referendums if they wished to break away.
"A period of transition is beginning. Free from the binary choice of 'Yes' or 'No', we must now build a common project, while recognising and respecting the dignity of everyone," Mr Macron said in a recorded message.
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