The CCAT, an independentist group in New Caledonia, has announced the continuation of their mobilization against electoral reform that led to riots. They have decided to maintain peaceful mobilization until the issue of unfreezing the electoral roll is resolved. Specific actions will be taken on the 13th of each month in commemoration of May 13, the date when the revolt began. The CCAT is also calling for a congress of the FLNKS, a coalition of independentist movements in New Caledonia, to be held before the end of August.
The CCAT was created by the Union Calédonienne, a component of the FLNKS, in late 2023. The group has not been supported by the Palika, another major movement in the FLNKS. Despite some members criticizing the FLNKS and calling for its dissolution, this option was not chosen at the general assembly. Governance within the FLNKS has been a primary concern for the CCAT, and they are proposing the candidacy of their leader, Christian Tein, for the presidency of the FLNKS. Thirteen members of the CCAT, including Tein, have been charged by the justice system for their alleged involvement in the violence that has led to ten deaths and over 2.2 billion euros in damages since May 13.
The CCAT members accused of instigating the violence are facing serious charges, including complicity in attempted murder and criminal association. Seven of the accused have been detained in mainland France, while two were released under judicial control and electronic surveillance. Meanwhile, a curfew in New Caledonia has been extended due to ongoing sporadic violence. The situation remains tense in the French Pacific territory. Since a constitutional reform in 2007, electoral lists for provincial elections in New Caledonia have been frozen since 1998. The proposed constitutional amendment to unfreeze the electoral roll starting in July 2024 has been met with criticism from independentists who fear it will weaken Kanak representation.
The CCAT’s call for continued mobilization and their demand for the FLNKS congress highlight the deep-seated issues surrounding governance and representation in New Caledonia. The divide between different factions within the independence movement adds complexity to the situation, as some groups seek more radical actions while others advocate for dialogue and cooperation. The legal proceedings against CCAT members accused of violence further exacerbate tensions in the region. With the extension of the curfew and the ongoing violence, the future remains uncertain for New Caledonia as it grapples with these political and social challenges.
