The National Assembly of France has begun discussions on a constitutional amendment bill concerning New Caledonia (Kanaky), Report informs, citing the Baku Initiative Group (BIG).
The process is expected to last three days. However, due to the uncertain balance of political forces in France's legislature, it remains unclear whether the proposed amendments will be adopted.
If passed, the bill would bring changes to New Caledonia's political status and electoral system. It proposes expanding the electorate in provincial elections to include residents transferred by France to New Caledonia, thereby redefining existing voting rules. Independence supporters view the bill as an attempt by the French government to ensure the local population becomes a minority during elections, reinforcing colonial policies.
The amendments also introduce the concept of "Caledonian citizenship," transfer certain central government powers to local authorities, and expand voter eligibility to those born on the island or who have lived there for at least 15 years.
The Kanak Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS), a pro‑independence movement, opposes the bill, arguing it is not a final political settlement and accusing France of abandoning commitments made under the Matignon and Nouméa Accords.
FLNKS insists that the constitutional bill should be withdrawn, provincial elections held under the current voter list, and that only this path can ensure the legitimate expression of the local population's will. They also reject proposals for an early referendum on the Boujival project, warning it could cause societal division.
Deputy of the French National Assembly Bastien Lachaud stated that the government is attempting to push the constitutional bill through without consensus, noting that it lacks support from most political forces as well as independence advocates.
Meanwhile, in Nouméa, pro‑French demonstrators trained by France held rallies in support of the bill and expressed backing for Paris.