The mayor of New Caledonia's capital has decided not to seek re-election next year.
Jean Leques, who is 82, has been the mayor of Noumea since 1986.
The Rassemblement-UMP has named Jean-Claude Briault as candidate for his succession.
Mr Leques was also the territory's first president after the 1998 Noumea Accord on greater autonomy came into effect.
