Violence erupted in Nouméa, New Caledonia, as protesters clashed with law enforcement officers on the night of May 13th to May 14th. This came amidst discussions by French lawmakers on a constitutional revision that has been strongly opposed by New Caledonian independence activists. As a result, a curfew was imposed by the high commissioner of the Republic in New Caledonia for the night of Tuesday to Wednesday in the city of Nouméa. The curfew was set from 6pm on Tuesday to 6am on Wednesday and could be extended as needed. Additionally, all gatherings were prohibited in the Nouméa area, along with a ban on the carrying of weapons and the sale of alcohol throughout New Caledonia.
The night saw vehicles being set on fire, shops being looted, and confrontations between protesters and security forces. An industrial factory specializing in bottling was intentionally set on fire and completely destroyed. Supermarkets in Nouméa and neighboring towns were looted and at least two car dealerships were also set ablaze. Law enforcement officers faced off with masked and hooded protesters, who had taken control of several roundabouts and started fires to disrupt traffic. The tensions escalated throughout the day, starting with clashes during the independence mobilization against the constitutional reform being debated at the National Assembly.
The reform aims to expand the electoral body for crucial provincial elections in New Caledonia. Established in 1998 by the Nouméa Accord, the electoral body has remained frozen, depriving nearly one in five voters of their voting rights. While the French government sees the reform as essential for democratic principles, independence activists fear it may further marginalize the indigenous Kanak people. The government’s proposal will undergo a final vote by lawmakers on Tuesday afternoon. Amidst the unrest, the high commissioner reported 36 arrests and 26 injured gendarmes, one of whom was seriously injured in the eye by the day’s clashes.
In response to the escalating violence and ongoing unrest, reinforcements including the RAID, mobile gendarme squadrons, and specialized units for urban violence are being sent to the area. Roadblocks were set up by law enforcement near the Saint-Louis tribe, an independence stronghold, as well as in the Montravel neighborhood and on the expressway connecting the city to the north of the island. The high commissioner condemned the blockades and confrontations with law enforcement, calling for the gradual reopening of roads that had been occupied during the day. The situation remains tense with fears of further incidents in the coming days.
The violent protests and clashes in Nouméa have raised concerns about the political and social tensions in New Caledonia. The dissatisfaction and opposition to the constitutional reform highlight the deep-rooted divisions within the territory. As the authorities try to restore order and address the underlying issues, the curfew and restrictions on gatherings aim to prevent further violence and destruction. The upcoming vote on the reform will be crucial in determining the future direction of New Caledonia and its relationship with France. The need for dialogue, respect for democratic processes, and peaceful resolution of conflicts are essential in fostering stability and unity in the region.
