The elections were marred by violence; several houses, town halls and shops were set on fire, with FLNKS members clashing with security forces. FLNKS also took a French administrator hostage on Lifou Island and occupied a police station in north-east of the territory.[3] On election day 200 Kanaks entered a polling station in Canala and destroyed ballot papers.[3]
Results
Overall voter turnout was just over 50%, but estimated to be only 15% amongst the Kanak community.[3]
Violence continued after the elections; FLNKS members occupied the police station in Thio on 20 November and held five policemen hostage. Rebels set up a 'Government of Kanaky' in early December, headed by Jean-Marie Tjibaou. European settlers in Hienghène killed ten FLNKS militants on 5 December, including two brothers of Tjibaou.[3]
Dick Ukeiwé became President of the Government, heading a ten-member cabinet.[5]