Large demonstration planned

Members of a leading opposition party announced on 12 October 2008 that they have planned a large demonstration to protest Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao's government. Officials of the Fretilin opposition party told reporters that the protest will focus on the alleged constitutional violations of Gusmao's coalition government. Fretilin party members stated that the date for the protest has not been set. Reports also indicate that an unsigned political pamphlet has been circulated in the capital, Dili, warning the government not to discriminate against ethnic East Timorese by appointing a Westerner as police commissioner. East Timor has experienced widespread unrest in the past following allegations of government discrimination. Australian-led peacekeepers already stationed in Dili have reportedly been deployed to provide security at key government locations in the event of violence during any protests.