TheLittleTwentieth – Renowned Papers Edition, AI Infused

Local sources from France: Le Figaro, 20 Minutes.
UK coverage: The Guardian.

Tensions in New Caledonia remain high following days of riots, with areas of the territory ‘escaping’ state control, according to the French government’s representative. The number of police and gendarmes on the island will increase to 2,700 from 1,700 in an effort to regain control. The violence erupted in opposition to a French plan to impose new voting rules, which pro-independence forces argue would dilute the vote of the Kanak people. Five people have been killed and hundreds arrested in the riots.

The situation in New Caledonia is still volatile, with some neighborhoods ‘out of control,’ admits the State, as reported by Le Figaro. The government has announced measures to address the difficulties in accessing food and healthcare. Major roads are being cleared for supply operations, and nearly a thousand personnel have been deployed to ensure the delivery of essential goods and medication. The government claims there is currently no food shortage, with sufficient stock for two months. Additionally, an advanced medical post has been set up to provide initial care when necessary.

In a press briefing, the High Commissioner of the Republic in New Caledonia, Louis Le Franc, revealed that a murder suspect has surrendered to the authorities. The search for other perpetrators is ongoing. To regain control over the areas that have been lost, nearly one thousand internal security personnel have arrived on the island, in addition to the 1,700 law enforcement officers already present, as reported by 20 Minutes.

The state representative acknowledged that control of several neighborhoods is no longer assured, and hopes that the reinforcements will allow for the reconquest of these areas. The state of emergency declared in New Caledonia has resulted in a calmer and more peaceful situation in Greater Noumea, despite the fires at a school and two businesses. However, the situation remains tense, with five people, including two gendarmes, having lost their lives since the beginning of the riots.

The proposed video conference between President Emmanuel Macron and New Caledonian elected officials was canceled due to the actors’ unwillingness to engage in dialogue at the moment. Instead, the President will exchange directly with the elected officials separately. Macron had hoped to address the crisis and find a resolution through dialogue, but the current situation on the ground has made it difficult to hold the conference.

As tensions escalate and violence continues, it is crucial to closely monitor the situation in New Caledonia. The French government’s efforts to regain control and address the concerns of pro-independence forces will be pivotal in restoring peace and stability to the territory.