New Caledonia elects Milakulo Tukumuli as government president

On 31 July 2026 the Congress of New Caledonia elected the territory's 19th government. Milakulo Tukumuli, leader of the centrist Éveil Océanien party, won the presidency by a 6‑5 vote over independentist candidate Gilbert Tyuenon. He said the role was "a great responsibility" and pledged to lead a "collegial and solidary" government.

Christopher Gygès of the Loyalist group was appointed vice‑president, maintaining the customary opposition‑side balance. The result follows the June‑July provincial elections and reflects a coalition between Éveil Océanien and non‑independentist parties, giving them a pivotal position despite holding only four of the 54 seats in the Congress.