LONDON — France is facing significant challenges in maintaining control over parts of its South Pacific territory, New Caledonia, according to statements made by High Commissioner Louis Le Franc in Noumea on Friday.
Le Franc reported that several areas of New Caledonia are currently outside of French state control. In response, France has increased its military and police presence on the island. Additional troops have arrived at the French army-controlled La Tontouta International Airport to assist in restoring order to the areas affected.
The number of police and gendarmes in New Caledonia is set to increase from 1,700 to 2,700 by Friday evening as tensions continue to escalate. France has also declared a state of emergency in the territory following the escalation of unrest.
This unrest was further aggravated by the death of a second gendarme, killed by an “accidental gunshot” during riots on Thursday. The riots were sparked by a controversial bill proposing that French nationals residing on the island for at least ten years become eligible to vote in provincial elections.
The proposal, part of a constitutional review initiated by Interior Minister Darmanin, has led to widespread protests. Local opponents argue that this change could dilute the indigenous population’s influence in local governance, igniting significant unrest and resulting in hundreds of arrests.
The situation remains volatile as France attempts to stabilize the region and address the concerns of its citizens in New Caledonia.–News Desk