There’s been another twist in East Timor’s increasingly bitter internal politics, with former Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri demanding the resignation of the current prime minister, Xanana Gusmao.

Dr Alkatiri’s demand comes after rebel leader Alfredo Reinado blamed Mr Gusmao for orchestratrating deadly unrest in 2006 in which at least 20 people died and hundreds of homes were destroyed.

After those riots the then President Gusmao sought Dr Alkatiri’s resignation, accusing him and several of his ministers of having helped arm civilian militias during the crisis.

In the past week, Alfredo Reinado has alleged Mr Gusmao “masterminded” the unrest.

The current president, Dr Jose Ramos-Horta has responded to the allegations in an exclusive interview with Steve Holland.

Tags: Alfredo Reinado, East Timor, Jose Ramos-Horta, Radio Australia

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