Observers of the Pacific Islands Forum say last weekend's territorial election in French Polynesia was peaceful and the atmosphere at the polling stations was convivial.
Tapura Huiraatira leader Edouard Fritch emerges after casting his ballot in the second round of French Polynesia's territorial election. The Tapuraa won a resounding victory, it was announced last night. Photo: AFP
The Forum team was led by the Deputy Chief Electoral Commissioner of the Marshall Islands Daniel Andrew.
The team, which congratulated the government on the successful conduct of the elections, will prepare a detailed report.
The ruling Tapura Huiraatira led by Edouard Fritch won an overwhelming majority for the next five-year term.
The Tahoeraa Huiraatira, which came second, says there was cheating and fiddling by both Tapura and the French state.
In the run-up to the election, several parties complained about obstruction and threats by mayors and local officials, making it impossible for some of their candidates to register and stand.