Rising Tensions in New Caledonia
The separatist movements in New Caledonia are accusing the French State of committing an 'act of war' following the death of a Kanak individual in an exchange of fire with the police. The FLNKS (Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front) and the CCAT (Field Action Coordination Unit), along with Kanak customary leaders, issued a joint statement condemning the actions of the French authorities. They demand the immediate repatriation of the High Commissioner of the Republic, Louis Le Franc, and prosecutor Yves Dupas, whom they accuse of perpetuating a colonial and warlike approach.
On Wednesday, a 38-year-old man, second cousin to the great Kanak customary chief and president of the Congress of New Caledonia, Roch Wamytan, was killed by the GIGN, an elite police unit. This incident has escalated the death toll to ten since the mid-May crisis, which includes two gendarmes. According to public prosecutor Yves Dupas, the gendarmes were targeted by several shots, prompting a self-defense response from the soldier.
Separatists' Response and Historical Context
The separatists argue that the death of Rock Victorien Wamytan, nicknamed 'Banana,' is a direct result of the French State's provocative actions. They attribute the ongoing violence to the suspended project to reform the electoral body, which was halted after President Emmanuel Macron dissolved the National Assembly in June. The situation further deteriorated following a large-scale raid on pro-independence circles on June 19, leading to the indictment of thirteen activists and the pre-trial detention of seven, including five who were incarcerated in France.
The separatists have criticized the French State for what they describe as a warlike act, adding Wamytan's death to a list of young Kanaks killed since May 13. They call on the future government in Paris to abandon the constitutional reform process that has fueled the unrest and to release their political prisoners.
- The separatists' accusations come amid a backdrop of longstanding tensions between the indigenous Kanak population and the French State, which has governed the territory since the 19th century. The calls for independence have grown stronger over the years, leading to several referendums, the most recent of which was held in 2021.
- The recent violence and the death of Rock Victorien Wamytan have intensified the separatist movements' demands for greater autonomy and recognition of their rights. The situation remains volatile, with both sides entrenched in their positions, making a peaceful resolution increasingly challenging.
