The American Department of State has called on Indonesia to take 'urgent remedial action' to end the intimidation and violence threatening next Sunday's vote on independence. The department's spokesman, James Foley said Indonesia must create an environment free of intimidation and reassure all parties that it will accept and uphold the decision of the East Timorese people. Mr Foley's comments come after the death of at least five people in violent clashes between pro-independence supporters and pro-Indonesian militiamen in the region's capital, Dili.
The Indonesian Government has said it will release East Timor's resistance leader, Xanana Gusmao, by the middle of next month. The announcement was made by President BJ Habibie, following violent clashes in the East Timorese capital, Dili, between pro-independence supporters and pro-Indonesian militiamen. Three men, including two independence supporters, are reported to have been shot dead in clashes on the fringes of the rally.
The shootings underlined mounting tensions ahead of next Monday's vote on self-determination for the province, which has been occupied by Indonesia since 1975. Jakarta has said it will accept the result of Monday's poll. An international team, including Ireland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, David Andrews, will be observing Monday's voting procedure.
