Wanabo-Ipeze: June 28 elections important in struggle for Kanaky's independence from France

The elections in Kanaky (New Caledonia), scheduled for June 28, are significant for the region's indigenous people fighting for independence from France, Caledonian Union activist Brenda Wanabo-Ipeze said in an interview with AnewZ, Report informs.

According to her, the provincial elections, scheduled for June 28, are crucial for the region's political future, as well as for the self-determination of the indigenous Kanak population.

"When we talk about Kanaky, it's important to emphasize that we're talking about 173 years of French colonization," she stated.

Wanabo-Ipeze noted that discussions about expanding the electorate have been ongoing since 2024.

"Expanding the electorate is an illusion created to keep those who want a French New Caledonia in power in the region," she noted.

She also emphasized that the Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS) has been pushing for provincial elections for several years, viewing them as an important stage in the political process.

"This also means an opportunity to end 40 years of governance marked by discriminatory practices against the Kanak and Oceanian populations," the activist said.

Commenting on the concept of a "state of New Caledonia within the French Republic," she stated that the FLNKS movement opposes several proposed agreements, including the so-called Bougival Accord, which, she said, is inconsistent with previously reached agreements on the decolonization of the region.

"We consider this agreement a ploy aimed at keeping New Caledonia within the French Republic," she noted.

She added that the FLNKS extraordinary congress in 2025 decided to reject this agreement, and that future political prospects will depend on the outcome of the upcoming elections.

According to Wanabo-Ipeze, the question of Kanakia's political future must be decided in accordance with the views of the indigenous people.

Wanabo-Ipeze: June 28 elections important in struggle for Kanaky's independence from France