New Caledonia
Defamation trial pits Tein against Backès in Paris
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Paris judicial court examined on Thursday, January 15, a defamation complaint filed by Christian Tein, Kanak independentist leader, against Sonia Backès, a loyalist figure, who accused him of being 'the leader of the terrorists' after the 2024 riots. Tein appeared via videoconference from Nouméa, while Backès did not attend the hearing. This case comes ahead of an Élysée meeting on New Caledonia's future.
President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday, January 19, 2026, an "Elysée-Oudinot" agreement reached between the state and several Caledonian political groups, without the involvement of the FLNKS. This document complements the Bougival agreement of July 12, 2025, without altering its institutional aspects, but by dedicating state financial support to the territory. The negotiations, launched on January 16, intensified over the weekend to conclude before Macron's departure for Davos.
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President Emmanuel Macron launched a new round of talks on New Caledonia's institutional future on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Élysée Palace, without the main independentist movement, the FLNKS. The aim is to clarify the Bougival agreement signed in July 2025, advancing without force but avoiding paralysis. Participants from other political groups showed determination amid ongoing tensions.
The French government plans a non-binding consultation in New Caledonia by March 15, 2026, to revive the Bougival agreement. Rejected by independentists, the initiative raises significant political and legal questions. Residents will vote on this controversial text.
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Six former Kanak independence detainees, released under judicial supervision, gathered publicly for the first time on Thursday in Paris for a press conference. They criticized the French government for making decisions in Paris on behalf of the Kanak people, just days before Overseas Minister Naïma Moutchou's visit to New Caledonia. Christian Tein, FLNKS leader, rejected the Bougival agreement and called for a new deal including independence.
Paris appeals court has allowed Kanak independence leader Christian Tein to return to New Caledonia after nearly 18 months in detention in mainland France. Charged in connection with the deadly May 2024 riots, he remains under judicial supervision. His lawyers expressed satisfaction with the ruling.
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Independentists from the FLNKS rejected the state's proposed 'economic and social refoundation pact,' deeming it inequitable. This pact, stemming from the Bougival agreement they denounce, aims to revive the economy in crisis following the May 2024 violence. They presented their own proposals, including a tax on high-value assets.
Metzdorf rallies Renaissance lawmakers amid Bougival agreement delays
Alhamisi, 18. Mwezi wa kumi na mbili 2025, 10:04:31False controversy accuses Macron of ceding overseas territories
Jumanne, 16. Mwezi wa kumi na mbili 2025, 08:43:24Macron announces January 16 meeting on New Caledonia's Bougival agreement
Jumapili, 14. Mwezi wa kumi na mbili 2025, 07:02:07French government shelves bill for New Caledonia consultation on Bougival agreement
Jumatano, 10. Mwezi wa kumi na mbili 2025, 22:43:35New Caledonia: minister Naïma Moutchou delays early consultation
Jumatatu, 3. Mwezi wa kumi na moja 2025, 19:21:12New Caledonian officials disappointed with state aid
Ijumaa, 31. Mwezi wa kumi 2025, 08:42:39In New Caledonia, FLNKS still contests Bougival agreement
Jumatano, 29. Mwezi wa kumi 2025, 23:05:54New Caledonia: parliament approves postponement of provincial elections
Jumanne, 28. Mwezi wa kumi 2025, 00:33:51Postponement of New Caledonia elections worries dialogue figures
Jumamosi, 18. Mwezi wa kumi 2025, 05:09:49In Nouméa, fifty detainees challenge the prison of shame in court