Change of E. Timor system considered

Change of E. Timor system considered

DILI (AP): In an attempt to address growing resentment of East Timor's UN administrators, the world body is considering the inclusion of senior independence leaders in governing positions, officials said on Tuesday.

The move would do away with the UN's current decision-making body and set up a cabinet and a national legislative assembly, said Flavio Damico, a UN official.

The cabinet would have eight ministers: four East Timorese and four UN officials. The assembly would consist of 33 members, all East Timorese.

Until the newly independent territory's first elections are held in late 2001, all positions will be filled by the tiny Southeast Asian nation's UN administrator, Sergio Vieira de Mello. "This concept is ... to assist the East Timorese toward self rule," Damico said.