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East Timor: political rival to be new leader as Xanana Gusmao resigns
Sydney Morning Herald - February 6, 2015
Rui Araujo, a leading member of the opposition Fretilin party and a former vice prime minister, is the overwhelming favourite to head a government of "national unity."
Mr Gusmao is likely to continue to play a role in government, most likely as a minister in charge of strategic planning and development.
Just months ago, Mr Gusmao's CNRT coalition government and Fretilin were engaged in a bitter political battle, much of it involving claims about corruption and gross financial mismanagement.
The apparent reconciliation is an extraordinary development, said Gordon Peake, author and long-time observer of East Timor.
"This is very unusual," said Dr Peake, who is in East Timor's capital Dili. "It's like Tony Abbott stepping down to become a minister in a government led by Bill Shorten."
"It's an example of the unpredictability of Timor's politics. What's also interesting is that there's no sense of crisis. It's been an orderly transition."
The "restructure" of the government will also include a slimmed-down Cabinet and four senior co-ordinating ministers drawn from different political parties.
Mr Gusmao was a guerilla fighter imprisoned by Indonesia and is widely revered as the hero of the country's independence. He dominates East Timor's politics like no other since the country's independence.
Approaching 70, Mr Gusmao has always been keen to ensure there is stability when he stepped down from the prime ministership.
He has been prime minister for more than seven years after holding the largely ceremonial post of president for five years. For much of his time as prime minister, Mr Gusmao has also been the minister for defence, intelligence and security.
"Members of government – staying, leaving and incoming – are all working together, prioritising the national interest of Timor-Leste and committed to respecting the dignity and legacy of Maun-Bo'ot Xanana", said Minister of State Agio Pereira, referring to East TImor by its official name.
Mr Gusmao will remain Prime Minister until his replacement is sworn in, which is expected next week.
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