5 Aug 2020

New Caledonia's FLNKS seeks three year transition

2:58 pm on 5 August 2020

New Caledonia's pro-independence FLNKS movement says it would want a three-year transition period should voters opt for independence and the creation of a new country on 4 October.

The FLNKS flag widely used in New Caledonia

The FLNKS flag widely used in New Caledonia Photo: RNZ Walter Zweifel

FLNKS leaders gave their outline of a Kanaky New Caledonia as they prepare for the second referendum under the Noumea Accord.

The leaders say they hope to attain a 51 percent yes vote after securing just over 43 percent support in the first referendum in 2018.

According to them, the period after a victory should be used to draw up a constitution of a multi-cultural, democratic and secular state which would renew ties with France.

They say everybody, including those opposed to independence, will be allowed to stay.

The French government is yet to say what the implications would be should a majority want full independence.

President Emmanuel Macron changed his government a month ago.