RIVALS IN CONGO

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29237, 22 June 1960, Page 15

RIVALS IN CONGO

Talks Break Down

(Rec. 11.30 p.m.)

LEOPOLDVILLE. June 21. Compromise negotiations between the Congo’s two rival leaders on the formation of the future nation’s first government have broken down, one of the leaders, Mr Patrice Lumumba, said tday. Mr Lumumba, leader of the Congolese National Movement, told reporters after a three-hour meeting with Mr Joseph Kasavubu, who has been officially appointed by King Baudouin to form the first government: “We are back to where we were on Friday.”

Mr Lumumba’s compromise offer is that Mr Kasavubu be head of State, in exchange for which Mr Lumumba wants the post of Prime Minister and a free hand in choosing his own Cabinet. Mr Kasavubu rejected the conditions.

Mr Kasavubu has countered by offering the post of Prime Minister to Mr Lumumba, but wants to choose the Government himself.

Mr Kasavubu’s allies, many of whom have been expecting Cabinet posts, are believed to have influenced his refusal pf Mr Lumumba's offer.

Japanese Dwelling.— The Japanese Embassy in Canberra is building a Japanese-style dwelling for the Ambassador. , A singlestoried, 8000-square foot structure, it will have a special Japanese garden.—Canberra. June 21.