Macron Lifts State of Emergency in New Caledonia
In a bold move to facilitate political dialogue, French President Emmanuel Macron has made the decision to lift the state of emergency in the French Pacific territory of New Caledonia. This decision comes after a period of unrest that resulted in seven fatalities and widespread destruction, as confirmed by his office.
Ending the State of Emergency
According to the official statement, the state of emergency will be lifted at 5 am local time on Tuesday and will not be extended “for the moment.” The primary objective of this decision is to allow for discussions among various factions, including the pro-independence movement FLNKS, the Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front, and local leaders who have the authority to call for the removal of barricades.
Pushing for Dialogue
Macron has been actively advocating for the dismantling of barricades set up by protesters from both sides of the conflict in New Caledonia – the Indigenous Kanaks seeking independence and the pro-Paris leaders opposing it. The President emphasized that removing these obstacles is crucial to initiating meaningful negotiations.
Macron’s Visit and the State of Emergency
This decision comes following Macron’s recent visit to New Caledonia. The state of emergency was initially imposed on May 15 to empower law enforcement agencies with enhanced authority to address the escalating violence in the region.
Unrest over Electoral Reforms
The unrest in New Caledonia coincided with discussions in the French Parliament regarding amendments to the French constitution related to voter lists in the territory. Pro-independence groups have expressed concerns about potential electoral reforms that could further marginalize the Indigenous Kanak population.
Call for Resistance
Leaders of pro-independence parties in New Caledonia have urged their supporters to remain steadfast and resist the Paris government’s attempts to impose electoral changes. The Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front have called on Macron to withdraw the electoral reform bill to resolve the ongoing crisis.
New Caledonia’s history dates back to 1853 when it became a French possession under Emperor Napoleon III. Following World War II, it transitioned to an overseas territory, with French citizenship granted to all Kanaks in 1957. — Euronews
