The pro-independence movement in New Caledonia is gaining momentum as Christian Tein, leader of The Field Action Coordination Unit, called for supporters to remain mobilised in the French-controlled Pacific archipelago. Tein urged resistance against Paris-imposed electoral reforms that the indigenous Kanak people fear will further marginalize them.
In a video message posted on social media after meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, Tein emphasized the importance of full sovereignty for the country. The political unrest in New Caledonia has led to protesters setting up barricades on roads, resulting in seven deaths and widespread destruction.
Macron has imposed a 12-day state of emergency in the archipelago in an effort to quell the unrest and remove the barricades. However, Tein insisted that the barricades would remain until house arrest warrants for party members are lifted and the electoral reform is scrapped.
“We remain mobilised and maintain all forms of resistance,” Tein stated, calling for a coordinated and organized approach to achieving their goals. The pro-independence camp boycotted the last referendum on independence in December 2021, and Macron has hinted at the possibility of another referendum if peace is restored.
New Caledonia’s history as a French territory dates back to 1853, and the issue of independence remains a contentious one. With tensions running high and calls for sovereignty growing louder, the future of New Caledonia hangs in the balance.