It is a major political crisis that is still going through New Caledonia. The government of the island fell on Tuesday February 2, 2021, after the resignation of the elected separatists. Explanations of Léa Havard, lecturer in public law at the University of New Caledonia.
The Caledonian government resigned on February 2, 2021. What is its weight in the island?
There are two strong institutions in New Caledonia. The congress votes the laws, in matters of labor law, matrimonial regimes… It has 54 members. Independents and loyalists sit there on an equal basis. It is therefore a new party, the Oceanic Awakening, which makes or defeats the majority. To date, the majority in Congress is independence. The government is responsible for executing the laws. It was chaired by a loyalist.
Why did this government resign?
He fell after the departure of the separatists. The spark was the sale of the nickel plant (in the south of the island) to a Caledonian and international consortium. The separatists are supporters of mining nationalism. This resignation is also due to strong tensions between loyalists and separatists for several weeks.
Ten resignations in twenty-three years
Does it often happen that the Caledonian government resigns?
He has already resigned ten times in twenty-three years!
Does this resignation block the island?
The government deals with day-to-day business, but no longer makes any decisions. A new executive must be elected by February 17. The election of the president will follow, which will also be the subject of tough negotiations.
Will the government switch to the independence camp?
Everything will depend on the Oceanic Awakening. A pro-independence government and congress would be a strong act before the 3rd self-determination referendum.
When will this referendum take place?
It is from April 4 that the congress will be able to request it. If this is the case, the referendum must take place within eighteen months at the latest. The current trend is to have this 3e referendum.
With a chance for the separatists to win?
The result of 2e referendum of October 4, 2020 was tight. 53.26% of voters voted no to independence. The separatists hope to win this time, but their reserve of votes is limited.
Between now and this 3rd referendum, the situation promises to be tense?
The slightest spark can generate strong tensions. New Caledonia remains a powder keg, with numerous weapons circulating there.
Is it dangerous to live there?
No ! It is especially tense between elected officials and political activists.
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