Monday, June 26, 2006

Celebrations as government fails


Dancing spilled into the streets of Dili today as East Timor Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri announced his resignation, in a move that is set to ease tensions in the troubled nation.

There was no immediate word on a replacement, but news of his departure was welcomed by thousands of people who have been demonstrating in the capital for the past week.

Alkatiri read a very brief statement in English, Portuguese and Tetum, the local language before walking back inside.

Alkatiri said he would co-operate with the President in forming an interim government. He said he was resigning because all Timorese had a right to live in peace and tranquility.

State-run television in Dili reported that six other cabinet ministers had resigned as well.

Read more here...

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