Residents in Nouméa, New Caledonia, are seen lining up to buy supplies at a supermarket along a street blocked by debris and burned items following nighttime unrest in the Magenta neighborhood on May 18, 2024. The government of New Caledonia has called for the removal of barricades blocking the territory and its economic heart of Grand Nouméa. They strongly condemn any hindrance to the population’s access to essential needs. A state of emergency has helped restore partial calm since Friday, but the region remains in disorder, with the official death toll from violence reaching five, including two gendarmes and three Kanak individuals. However, a Caldoche father was killed on Saturday in the north of Grande Terre while trying to pass a barricade in Kaala-Gomen.
Vaimu’a Muliava, a government official, expressed concern about the ongoing violence, stating, “We are killing each other, we cannot continue like this.” He emphasized the need to open up access points, a sentiment echoed by the population. According to reports, 146 commercial and public establishments have been burned or are currently on fire. Calls to target municipal buildings have also been circulating on social media. The Front de libération nationale kanak et socialiste has established a coordination cell for on-site actions, claiming to advocate for a noble cause – independence – but the French government labels them as a violent mafia organization.
In the residential neighborhoods of Nouméa where peace prevails, residents are participating in multicultural gatherings and sharing videos online. The President of the right-wing Rassemblement party has encouraged the maintenance of neighborhood protection committees following statements from the High Commissioner. Reports have emerged of armed militias engaging in manhunts against rioters, and tensions continue to escalate in northern neighborhoods such as Dumbéa and Païta. The situation remains volatile, with clashes and unrest persisting in various areas.
Efforts to restore order and stability are ongoing, with calls for dialogue and de-escalation from both government officials and community leaders. The situation in New Caledonia remains complex, with deep-rooted socio-political tensions contributing to the ongoing unrest. Authorities are working to address the underlying issues and prevent further violence, but challenges persist in quelling the disturbances and managing the aftermath of the recent unrest. The road to reconciliation and peace in New Caledonia may require continued efforts from all stakeholders involved to address grievances, build trust, and forge a path towards a more stable and harmonious future.
