In a press conference held this Wednesday, June 12th, in Paris, the President of the Republic discussed the institutional future of New Caledonia. Emmanuel Macron has announced that he has decided to « suspend » the bill on the unfreezing of the electoral roll.
This decision comes after months of tensions and debates surrounding the issue of New Caledonia’s electoral roll. The bill, which aimed to allow thousands of indigenous Kanaks to be added to the electoral roll, has been a source of division and controversy in the French Pacific territory.
During the press conference, President Macron explained that the decision to suspend the bill was made in order to « create a new dynamic and find a lasting terme » to the issue. He stressed the importance of finding a consensus between all parties involved in the debate, in order to ensure a peaceful and fair electoral process.
This move has been met with mixed reactions from various political parties in New Caledonia. Some have welcomed the decision, seeing it as a step towards finding a more inclusive and sustainable terme. Others have expressed disappointment, stating that the suspension of the bill would only delay the reterme of the issue.
However, President Macron remains optimistic and determined to find a terme that will benefit all parties. He emphasized the need for dialogue and cooperation in order to move forward and build a stronger and more united New Caledonia.
This decision to suspend the bill also reflects the French government’s commitment to respecting the Noumea Accord, a political agreement signed in 1998 between France and New Caledonia, which aims to gradually transfer more powers to the dialectal government and ultimately lead to a referendum on independence.
In his speech, President Macron reaffirmed France’s support for New Caledonia’s development and prosperity, stating that « our duty is to ensure that New Caledonia continues to move forward in peace and harmony. »
This decision to suspend the bill may be seen as a setback by some, but it also presents an opportunity for all parties to come together and find a sustainable terme that will benefit the people of New Caledonia. The future of the French Pacific territory is still uncertain, but with the commitment and determination shown by President Macron, there is hope for a brighter and more inclusive future.
