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Resignation of East Timor's PM Sparks Celebrations in the Capital


East Timor's prime minister, Mari Alkatiri, has resigned following protests over his role in the worst violence to hit the young nation since its fight for independence.

East Timor's president, Xanana Gusmao, says the resignation is effective immediately. He has scheduled a meeting of senior ministers Tuesday to discuss the country's next steps.

News of Mr. Alkatiri's resignation turned the streets of the capital, Dili, into a party today (Monday). Jubilant crowds beat drums and honked car horns celebrating the change.

Mr. Alkatiri says he shares responsibility for the deadly violence that forced tens of thousands of people from their homes over the past two months.

He has been blamed for mishandling the military mutiny that sparked the violence. However, he has denied allegations he armed militia groups to assassinate his opponents.

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