MSG seals deal with Independence group ahead of referendum
THE Melanesian Spearhead Group will take a lead role in a political referendum in New Caledonia next year. MSG Director General, Ambassador Amenatave Yauvoli, has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Front de Libération Nationale Kanak et Socialiste (FLNKS) setting out details of cooperation.
“The FLNKS has asked us to provide technical assistance to them ahead of the referenfum’” Yauvoli said after the Pacific Community meeting in Noumea. “This will deal mainly with the strengthening of capacities within the FLNKS with regard to the administration and organisation of key institutions such as parliament, the judiciary, foreign affairs and defence.” The FLNKS is one of the leading proponents for greater autonomy from France for the people of New Caledonia.
The referendum will decide whether New Caledonia should have greater autonomy within the French Republic. Yauvoli said MSG member countries were willing to help the FLNKS and other New Caledonian political parties to strengthen their capabilities by providing technical assistance.
“The FLNKS has identified lack of capacity within the organisation and the Kanaky community with regards to administration of specific parts of the government,” Yauvoli said.
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