A year after deadly riots, New Caledonia’s president vows to address push for independence

<p>Exclusive: In the wake of unrest that rattled the French overseas territory, Alcide Ponga discusses how to rebuild and his plan for the future</p><p>One year after the deadly riots that ravaged Nouméa and shattered New Caledonia’s economy and social fabric, newly elected president Alcide Ponga faces a series of challenges including deep division over the territory’s political future – and the prospect of independence from France.</p><p>Ponga, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jan/09/new-caledonia-congress-elects-alcide-ponga-president">who was elected in January</a> is an indigenous Kanak who is also anti-independence. The 49-year-old former nickel executive and mayor has vowed to get the economy back on track and support discussions on independence.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/may/13/new-caledonia-riots-one-year-on-president-alcide-ponga">Continue reading...</a>