A Kanak flag waves in the middle of the road at the Col de la Pirogue in Païta, New Caledonia, on June 4, 2024. The authorities have been unable to control the unrest in Greater Nouméa, which has been in turmoil since May 13. Progressives, including the non-independentist party Calédonie ensemble, believe that the situation cannot be resolved by the police alone. Calédonie ensemble is led by Philippe Gomès and includes Philippe Dunoyer, a member of the presidential majority. They argue that the constitutional electoral reform should be definitively halted to end the crisis.
After seven deaths, 600 injuries, 7,000 job losses, and an estimated €1 billion in damages, Calédonie ensemble is calling for President Emmanuel Macron to abandon his reform. Despite Macron’s commitment not to force the reform, he has not used the word “withdrawal” that the independence activists are waiting for. The situation is further complicated by the upcoming European elections on June 9, which are expected to be difficult for Macron’s majority. The ambiguity of the government’s position is fueling anger and risking the complete collapse of New Caledonia after three weeks of unrest.
The complex legal process involved in withdrawing a proposed law means that Macron cannot simply withdraw the constitutional reform on his own. Only the Congress convened at Versailles or a referendum can determine the fate of the reform. This further complicates the situation and increases the frustration among the protestors. Philippe Gomès emphasizes the need for a clear decision to defuse the crisis and discredit the most radical groups responsible for the violence. Despite previously voting in favor of the electoral reform, Philippe Dunoyer now believes that an abandonment of the text is the only viable option given the current circumstances.
The potential options of definitively suspending the reform, completely abandoning it, or declaring that there will never be a Congress are being considered as ways to address the crisis. Philippe Gomès highlights the semantic importance of making a clear decision to allow the FLNKS to demobilize and delegitimize the most radical groups causing damage. Philippe Dunoyer, who initially supported the electoral reform, now believes that abandoning the text is the only way to resolve the crisis dominated by extremist elements. Despite the complexity of the situation, a swift and clear decision is needed to prevent further escalation of the unrest in New Caledonia.
The ongoing protests and violence in New Caledonia have surpassed the authorities’ ability to handle the situation effectively. The unresolved crisis has led to a stalemate with no clear path forward. As tensions continue to rise and the situation becomes more volatile, urgent action is needed to prevent further casualties and damages. The call for a definitive decision from President Macron and the government is growing louder as the people of New Caledonia demand an end to the turmoil and a return to peace and stability. Ultimately, the fate of New Caledonia and the resolution of the crisis rest in the hands of the political leaders and their ability to make decisive choices to restore calm to the troubled region.
