Macron suspends controversial voting reform in New Caledonia after deadly unrest

French President Emmanuel Macron has suspended controversial voting reforms in New Caledonia due to deadly unrest in the French Pacific territory. The reforms, feared by the Indigenous Kanak people, would have marginalized them further. The violence erupted in response to attempts to amend the French Constitution and change voting lists. The state of emergency was declared, and troops were sent to quell the revolt. Both sides, pro-independence Kanaks and those loyal to France, erected barricades. Macron suspended the constitutional bill to prioritize dialogue and order restoration. The death of a man during a confrontation with police sparked investigations. The French government extended an overnight curfew until June 17. The proposed legislation aimed to extend voting rights to non-indigenous residents, leading to violent protests and property damage. The bill was passed by parliament but faced suspension due to Macron dissolving the National Assembly. The Kanak Liberation Party emphasized the need for peace and social ties. Kanaks resent French rule and seek autonomy or independence. Concerns over reduced influence led to opposition to extending voting rights. Referenda on independence have failed in the past, with Kanaks believing non-Kanak voters sway the results. Last month's violence was one of the worst since the 1980s political crisis, where 21 people were killed during a hostage-taking incident.