French president urges New Caledonians to lift roadblocks as unrest persists

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - French President Emmanuel Macron issued a public appeal on Tuesday for residents of New Caledonia to dismantle barricades obstructing roads over the past several weeks marked by unrest.

French media reported that Macron condemned the ongoing violence in the South Pacific archipelago and said the current "unacceptable" situation called for "the firm and definitive lifting of all blockades."

New Caledonia, a French territory situated between Australia and Fiji, has been under French rule since the 19th century.

However, the indigenous Kanak population has been increasingly vocal in their demands for greater autonomy or full independence.

Fresh turmoil erupted in mid-May was triggered by widespread discontent over proposed voting reforms, leading to deadly protests and extensive disruption.

Despite French authorities asserting control over Noumea, the capital, barricades persist, and pro-independence demonstrators remain steadfast in their presence on the streets.

Last week, in a bid to ease tensions, Macron announced the suspension of the contentious voting reform, citing the upcoming snap parliamentary elections in France as a reason for the pause.

However, pro-independence factions in New Caledonia had already dismissed the reform as irrelevant following the call for new elections.

In a letter circulated by local media, Macron urged the people of New Caledonia to engage in dialogue and exhibit patience. "It always takes longer to build than to destroy," he remarked, emphasizing the need for constructive efforts towards resolution.