The future of New Caledonia's Vale nickel plant has become the territory's biggest problem, both economically and politically, amid daily protests.
The Brazilian owner is in exclusive negotiations with a new consortium, Prony Resources, which includes a Swiss-based commodity trader.
However traditional Kanak leaders and pro-independence parties are opposed to the sale plan and have been demonstrating ever since the deal was announced.
As a decision is expected in December, tension is building.
Walter Zweifel has been following events and I asked him why there is this opposition.
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Kanak group 'Instance Coutumière Autochtone de Négociation' rallies over Vale nickel plant sale Photo: FB ICAN