While being the major individual ethnic group, it is enough to make the kanaks a a minority against the population that migrated to the island while under France governance (and thus more likely to be at least for the status quo).

It is said that a majority of the kanaks are pro independence.

Let's be clear, I am pretty sure that the kanaks would lose a lot by being independent and not able to rely on french aid, and would probably lose even better if their natural resources attract others but ...

... I also think that since Napoleon III annexed it as an oversea territory of France Kanaks never had the chance to decide for themselves and have been prejudiced. Their lands taken over, being subject to abuse, not being given the same chances overall as caldos.

I believe this should still be their choice, even if it means a worse life for them afterwards.

Had the colons treated them better for a start, there would be less pro independence among the kanaks so it is really on France's side to make amend and on caldos to stop acting like victims when for the most part they are collectively the offenders (the important word is 'collectively' here).