Pro-France Virginie Ruffenach elected New Caledonia Congress president

Virginie Ruffenach, representing the pro-France bloc, has been elected as the new president of the New Caledonia Congress following a coalition agreement with the Eveil Océanien party.

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New Caledonians are expecting something else than struggles ... They expect mutual respect and efficiency.

Ruffenach secured 28 votes in the 54-seat assembly, narrowly defeating Dominique Fochi, who was backed by the pro-independence bloc. The "governance" coalition was formed after the recent provincial elections, uniting the pro-France parties (Rassemblement, Les Loyalistes, Génération NC) with the four seats held by Eveil Océanien.

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They expect us to be worthy of the history we are writing together. We have inherited an exceptional land as well as a complex history. We cannot change the past, but we have the responsibility to build the future.

In her inaugural address, Ruffenach called for "exchange" and "dignified debates" within the Congress. She stressed the need for mutual respect and efficiency, acknowledging the complex history of New Caledonia and the responsibility to build its future. She extended an offer of "consideration" to the pro-independence camp, emphasizing respect for differing beliefs and the importance of working together for the general interest.

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I wish we can find the courage to overcome what is opposing us to preserve what brings us together. And this is our attachment to New Caledonia, our will to serve its inhabitants and our duty to serve future generations.

Ruffenach outlined her priorities, which include rebuilding the economy, mending the social fabric, reducing inequalities, and restoring confidence. The Congress is now composed of five groups: Kanaky NC (19 seats, pro-independence), Les Loyalistes (18, pro-France), Rassemblement (6, pro-France), Union Nationale pour l'Indépendance (UNI, 7, pro-independence), and Eveil Océanien (4 seats). Further elections for the Congress bureau and committees are scheduled.

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I have the utmost respect for those who hold different beliefs than mine and I am mindful that everyone should express themselves freely. Our beliefs differ deeply on New Caledonia's political future, this is a reality. But this reality doesn't prevent us from respecting each other, listen to each other and work together when the general interest demands it.