France Bolsters New Caledonia Security Amid Deadly Riots Over Voting Reform
May 17, 2024France has deployed extra police and military forces to New Caledonia following three nights of violent riots, with four fatalities and significant damage.
The unrest was triggered by a contentious electoral reform bill perceived to undermine the voting power of the indigenous Kanak population.
Rioters expressed their anger through arson, looting, and barricading roads.
A state of emergency has been declared, leading to house arrests, a ban on TikTok, and a promise of firm action against the perpetrators from the French government.
Prime Minister Gabriel Attal emphasized a tougher stance on sanctions against the rioters.
President Macron intends to convene a Congress before June's end to settle the electoral reform, amidst calls for the independence movement to agree on a new deal.
Summary based on 47 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • May 16, 2024
Like a ‘civil war’: Nouméa residents describe terror as deadly riots sweep New Caledonia capitalThe Guardian • May 16, 2024
Hundreds of French police deployed amid New Caledonia riotsYahoo News • May 16, 2024
Violence rages in New Caledonia as France rushes emergency reinforcements to its Pacific territoryYahoo News • May 16, 2024
France Bans TikTok in Island Territory After Pro-Independence Protests Turn Violent