Corruption investigations hit East Timor government

East Timor’s president has refused to swear in 11 Cabinet ministers because of corruption investigations. The revelations make a rocky beginning for a new government formed after a protracted political stalemate in the young nation.

Former President and independence fighter Jose Maria Vasconcelos, known as Taur Matan Ruak, was sworn in as prime minister on Friday after a three-party alliance won a majority of parliament seats in a May election.

President Francisco Guterres Lu Olo said eight nominated ministers, including finance and defence, and three viceministers can’t be sworn in because the public prosecutor’s office is investigating corruption cases against them.

Some also have previous corruption convictions, he said.