Latest Paris court ruling triggers polarised reactions in New Caledonia

A recent ruling by a Paris court to drop all charges against pro-independence Kanak leader Christian Téin and 13 others involved in the May 2024 civil unrest in New Caledonia has ignited strong reactions across the territory.

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relieved

The court cited "insufficient" evidence, leading to a "no case to answer" decision for all 14 accused. However, the Public Prosecution has appealed, arguing that further investigation is necessary. This legal development occurs as New Caledonia's provincial election campaigning intensifies, two years after violent unrest claimed 14 lives and caused over €2 billion in economic damage, largely due to arson and looting.

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French justice has done its job

Supporters of independence, including Téin's FLNKS party, expressed relief, stating that "French justice has done its job." Conversely, pro-France political groups condemned the decision as "biased." Nicolas Metzdorf, a pro-France MP, criticized "the red judges" and emphasized the need for accountability for those who harmed the people of New Caledonia. Southern Province President Sonia Backès also voiced her disapproval of the French judicial system.

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the red judges

Téin's lawyer, François Roux, defended the ruling, highlighting the independence of investigating judges. The case stems from an investigation into the Field Action Coordinating Cell (CCAT), which prosecutors alleged was an "organised structure" aiming to destabilize the territory. Téin and other CCAT leaders were arrested in June 2024 and held in mainland France before Téin was allowed to return to New Caledonia in December 2025.

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As long as justice is not delivered, nothing can be totally repaired in New Caledonia. A whole people was harmed and those responsible must be taken to account