The riots continued for the second consecutive night in New Caledonia, while the National Assembly adopted the constitutional revision reforming the electoral body, much criticized by the separatists, on the night of Tuesday May 14 to Wednesday May 15. The text received 351 votes for and 153 against, with the left opposing its adoption.
In a letter addressed to Caledonian representatives during the night, Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence “unworthy(ies)” and called to “calm”. The head of state also specified that the Congress would meet “before the end of June”, unless separatists and loyalists agree between now and then on a more global text. Follow our live stream.
The FLNKS advocates “appeasement” and withdrawal of the constitutional bill. The separatists condemn the violence which has erupted since Monday in New Caledonia and call for“appeasement”. But, at the same time, they condemn the vote in the National Assembly of the constitutional bill providing for the unfreezing of the electorate and wish “withdrawal” of text.
More than 130 arrests during the riots. More than 130 people have been arrested since Monday, the High Commission of the Republic in this French Pacific territory announced in a press release. “Several dozen rioters were taken into custody and will be brought to justice.”he specifies, adding that “serious disturbances to public order are still ongoing”with “numerous fires and looting of businesses, infrastructure and public establishments including several schools and colleges”.
Schools closed “until further notice”. Schools “will remain closed until further notice”, also announced the high commission. La Tontoura Airport “remains closed to commercial flights”, he also declares. A new rebellion with an escape attempt took place at the Nouméa penitentiary center “failed by the security forces”, according to the same source.