The National Assembly adopted a constitutional reform bill on Wednesday, May 15, by a vote of 351 to 153, expanding the electoral body in New Caledonia. This bill caused anger in Noumea, leading to extreme urban violence that supported the cause of Kanak independence. The bill aims to open voting in the next provincial elections to all citizens residing in New Caledonia for ten years, adding 25,000 more voters. While the loyalists support this, the Kanak independence seekers demand its withdrawal, fearing “recolonization” if the current provisions, which froze the electoral body to natives and residents before the 1998 Noumea decolonization agreement, are altered.
The government has promised to suspend the bill in favor of a local consensus if both camps agree on a new territorial status defining a Caledonian citizenship. This promise was reiterated by Emmanuel Macron in a letter to Caledonian representatives after the vote. However, if no agreement is reached, the Congress will meet by the end of June, as stated by the President. Despite the significance of the issue, debates in the National Assembly were lengthy and party-oriented. As Noumea erupted in violence, invectives were hurled in the Assembly, with a majority targeting La France insoumise (LFI), accusing them of obstructing a legitimate anti-colonial fight, while the Interior Minister, Gérald Darmanin, lectured on democracy. This chaotic scene tarnished the image of the parliament, as noted by the presidents.
Various MPs repeatedly called for the withdrawal of the bill that had sparked opposition from the independence seekers. A majority also called for a “dialogue mission,” which could be led by a prominent figure (such as Lionel Jospin) in the coming days, under the leadership of the Assembly and Senate presidents. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, urged to take control of the issue, pledged to engage in dialogue. This article is only partially shown to non-subscribers, enticing readers to view the remainder by becoming subscribers.
