East Timor assembly submits main themes for first constitution: UN mission

East Timor's Constituent Assembly today presented the main themes that would be considered by four working groups in drawing up the territory's first constitution, the United Nations Transitional Administration (UNTAET) said.

The first group will focus on human rights and civil liberties; the second will address the organization of the state and of political power. A third working group will focus on the structure of the economy and finances; and the fourth will, among other tasks, design mechanisms by which the constitution can be amended, if necessary.

Each of the working groups contains an average of 21 Constituent Assembly members and has 10 days to discuss the allotted themes, according to UNTAET. The President of the National Assembly can extend this consideration period as necessary.