France’s Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin announced that a French gendarme critically injured during disturbances in New Caledonia has died, increasing the death toll to four.
Following the escalation of violence triggered by objections to a constitutional reform, President Emmanuel Macron’s administration has decided to declare a state of emergency in the French Pacific territory.
The violent clashes began after a proposal to adjust the electorate for provincial elections in the territory was debated in Paris.
Darmanin emphasized that the government would restore order and stressed that violence was unjustifiable.
The decision to implement a state of emergency was confirmed shortly after a cabinet meeting in Paris, where it was urgently added to the agenda, as stated by the Elysée Palace.
In response to the crisis, Macron has postponed a scheduled trip to Normandy to oversee national security discussions and has warned that any further unrest would be met with a firm response.
He also called for the renewal of political dialogue to resolve the tensions. French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal mentioned that additional security forces were being sent to the territory and were expected to arrive soon.
The protests intensified after the National Assembly passed legislation to expand voting rights to newer residents from mainland France, a move seen by critics as potentially diluting the influence of indigenous populations and favouring pro-French political factions. The bill was passed with 351 votes in favour against 153.
Violence peaked on Monday night with shootings at security personnel, arson of vehicles, and looting of shops, marking the most severe unrest the territory has experienced since the 1980s.
In response, the authorities have deployed significant security measures, including a curfew, a ban on public gatherings, and the closure of the main airport.
Over 130 individuals have been arrested, and more than 300 have been injured since the outbreak of violence.
