Overnight riots in New Caledonia resulted in the deaths of at least two people as authorities responded by implementing a two-day curfew and banning gatherings. The violence was sparked by planned changes to the constitution that would expand voter eligibility in local elections to include French nationals who had lived on the island for more than ten years. This move was met with resistance by the indigenous Kanak population, who saw it as an attempt to diminish their influence.
During the riots, shops and businesses were looted and set on fire, with shots being fired at police officers. A total of 54 police officers and gendarmes were injured, and over 130 individuals were arrested in connection with the violence. As a result, the airport was shut down, and numerous flights were cancelled to ensure public safety. The outbreak of violence began on Monday night ahead of a scheduled debate in the French parliament regarding the voting reforms.
In response to the unrest, French Minister of the Interior Gérald Darmanin emphasized the importance of maintaining the curfew and called for political leaders, especially pro-independence figures, to urge calm among the population. Critics of the proposed reforms argue that they would primarily benefit pro-France politicians in New Caledonia while further marginalizing the indigenous community, which has historically faced discrimination and segregation. French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal condemned the violence, stressing that peaceful resolution is essential to restoring order and tranquility in the region.
