During a visit to the capital Nouméa this Thursday (May 23, 2024), the French president promised security and dialogue in the face of the crisis triggered in the region by electoral reform
French President Emmanuel Macron described the unrest in the territory of New Caledonia as a “insurrection movement without precedents”. During a visit to the police headquarters in the capital Nouméa, this Thursday (May 23, 2024), Macron appealed for peace, calm and security.
On his visit to the French overseas territory, the president faced the task of calming tensions generated by violent protests against the electoral reforms recently approved by his government. He also informed that the next few days will be difficult, but that Paris will “until the end” to restore calm in the Pacific region, in addition, he promised an announcement on next steps.
New Caledonia (a territory rich in nickel) has been part of France since the 19th century. On May 13, it became the stage for violent unrest triggered by an electoral reform. The indigenous Kanaks, who make up about 40% of the population, fear that the new law, which grants voting rights to French residents who have lived there for more than 10 years, will dilute the influence of the indigenous population.
This reform led to clashes that resulted in 6 deaths and hundreds of injuries, leading to the imposition of a state of emergency on May 15, marking the worst wave of violence since the 1980s. France sent around 3,000 soldiers, police and others security reinforcements.
During his visit this Thursday (May 23), Macron held meetings with local political leaders and businesspeople, including separatist leaders, hoping to revitalize discussions with France. Despite the tension, the president ruled out reversing the results of the referendums that rejected independence, stating that peace cannot be achieved by ignoring the will of the people.
IN DIRECT | Declaration du Président @EmmanuelMacron after la Nouvelle-Calédonie. https://t.co/l325HRWIr4
— Élysée (@Elysee) May 23, 2024
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