Tensions in Noumea
Tensions remain high in New Caledonia’s capital, Noumea, this Friday after days of unrest. The representative of the French government has affirmed that areas of the territory have experienced a situation of state decontrol.
Louis Le Franc, High Commissioner of the Republic of New Caledonia, has announced new security deployments. The number of security forces on the island will increase from 1,700 to 2,700 this Friday night, with reinforcements arriving to control areas that have been out of state control in recent days.
Current Situation and Security Deployment
According to Le Franc, operations to supply food and medicine to the population will begin with specialized teams, including experts in removing explosive traps set by activists.
The government of New Caledonia has reported that the island has food reserves for two months, but the main challenge is the distribution of them.
Food Scarcity and Social Situation
Opposition to a French plan to impose new voting rules has sparked a spiral of deadly violence in the archipelago, with confrontations and concerns lingering in Nouméa.
In the working-class districts of Nouméa, where there is a large population of indigenous Canac residents, there have been recorded building fires and vehicle wrecks, generating a situation of anxiety and anger among the Canac youth.
Reestablishment of Access to Hospitals and Priorities
Le Franc has highlighted the priority of unblocking routes to ensure access to hospitals, both for caregivers and residents who need medical assistance.
The Field Action Coordination Cell (CCAT), responsible for the protest against the proposed constitutional reform, has blamed the French government for the violence.
