East Timor PM likely to resign

Alkatiri has been under pressure to step down since the tiny nation descended into violence a month ago, leading to the deaths of 21 people and more than 2,200 foreign peacekeepers arriving to restore calm.

His political opponents and critics have charged that he failed to prevent the unrest and was also linked to the violence himself.

"I can confirm the letter that President Xanana Gusmao sent yesterday (Tuesday) to Prime Minister Alkatiri. The letter is asking him to step down from office," the official, who is close to Alkatiri, said on condition of anonymity.

He said the premier would meet his council of ministers on Thursday to discuss the president's request. Asked if the prime minister will resign he said: "Most probably, he will resign."

The Portuguese LUSA news agency, which saw a copy of the letter, said Gusmao wrote that he had lost confidence in the prime minister after watching a documentary accusing him of supplying weapons to civilians.

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation program "makes serious accusations on your involvement in the distribution of arms to civilians," LUSA cited the letter as saying.

"After seeing the 'Four Corners' program, which enormously shocked me," the letter continues, "there is nothing left for me to do except give you the choice: either you resign, or, after hearing the State Council, I will fire you, because you no longer deserve my confidence."