The Prime Minister, Gabriel Attal, paid tribute on Friday to the two gendarmes who were killed during the violence in New Caledonia, stating that they had fallen while trying to restore order and protect citizens. The ceremony took place in Maisons-Alfort, Val-de-Marne. He praised the two gendarmes for their bravery in the face of riots and violence, and said that their example would inspire others to continue their mission. The two gendarmes, Maréchal des Logis-Chef Nicolas Molinari (22 years old) and Major Xavier Salou (46 years old), were killed on May 15th and May 16th respectively in the archipelago.
The killings occurred as part of the ongoing violence in New Caledonia, which has resulted in seven deaths over the past ten days. The violence is linked to opposition to a local electoral reform by the independence movement. Gabriel Attal emphasized the need to restore order quickly in New Caledonia to prevent further escalation of the situation. He highlighted the fragility of the current situation in the region, noting that the slightest incident could spark more violence. Attal called for calm and dialogue to resolve the crisis, emphasizing that President Emmanuel Macron was working to facilitate negotiations between all parties involved.
Attal stressed the importance of maintaining peace and promoting dialogue to prevent further bloodshed. He commended President Macron’s efforts to engage with stakeholders in New Caledonia and create an environment conducive to peaceful discussions. At the tribute ceremony, Attal presented the military medal and the Legion of Honour’s knight insignia to honor the fallen gendarmes. He expressed gratitude for their sacrifice and dedication to maintaining law and order, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting law enforcement efforts in New Caledonia.
The deaths of the two gendarmes have underscored the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining order in areas of civil unrest. The Prime Minister’s tribute served as a reminder of the dangers faced by those tasked with upholding the law and protecting citizens, and as a call for unity and solidarity in the face of violence. Attal’s words emphasized the importance of respecting the rule of law and the need for peaceful dialogue to address underlying issues fueling the unrest in New Caledonia. The ceremony served as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by dedicated public servants in the line of duty.
Overall, Gabriel Attal’s tribute to the fallen gendarmes highlighted the government’s dedication to restoring peace and order in New Caledonia and honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service of their country. The ceremony underscored the importance of unity, dialogue, and understanding in resolving conflicts and building a more peaceful society. As the situation in New Caledonia remains fragile, continued efforts towards reconciliation and dialogue are essential to prevent further violence and loss of life. The legacy of the two gendarmes will serve as a reminder of the bravery and dedication required to uphold justice and protect the rights of all citizens.
