Indonesia's national assembly has ratified the results of East Timor's independence vote. The vote clears the way for the territory's freedom from the country that invaded it in 1975.
In East Timor, United Nations peacekeepers say that they have found the first mass grave in East Timor since they entered the territory last month. At least 20 bodies were discovered in the grave in the coastal town of Liquica. The area has been sealed off and team of investigators is being brought in. Despite reports of genocide following the vote for independence two months ago, investigators had discovered only a few bodies in separate locations. It is thought that attempts had been made to hide many of the victims and some bodies have started washing up along East Timor’s northern coastline. Early this month, the parts of at least three bodies were also found in a well in the town.
Meanwhile, the powerful commander of Indonesia's armed forces, General Wiranto, has let it be known that he may run for the Presidency of the country. The General announced yesterday that he would not put himself forward for the Vice-Presidency in support of embattled President BJ Habibie. The announcement was a major setback to Mr Habibie's campaign for another term in office. Indonesia's highest legislative body, the People's Consultative Assembly, is due to vote tomorrow on who will be the next president.
