Macron suspends electoral reform in New Caledonia after deadly violence

French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Wednesday the suspension of controversial electoral reform in New Caledonia after a series of deadly riots in the French Pacific territory.

The reforms, which would have changed the electoral law, are feared by the indigenous Kanak people, who say they would further marginalise them. The issue has sparked the worst violence in the archipelago in decades.

Violence flared on May 13 in response to attempts by Macron’s government to change the French constitution and alter electoral rolls in New Caledonia. France declared a state of emergency in its Pacific territory on May 15 and sent hundreds of reinforcements to help police quell the uprising, which was marked by shootings, clashes, looting and arson.

Both sides of New Caledonia’s bitter division – the indigenous Kanaks who want independence and the French – erected barricades, either to rebel against the authorities or to protect their homes and properties. Pro-independence supporters built barricades out of charred vehicles and other debris and made parts of the capital, Noumea, off-limits.

“I have decided to suspend the draft constitution on New Caledonia,” Macron said. “We cannot allow any ambiguity at this time. It must be suspended in order to give full force to the dialogue on the ground and the return to order.”

Read more on FRANCE 24 English

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