Mahmud Sherifo, who was sacked two months ago, said in
an interview with a local newspaper that the president
did not support the creation of political parties.

Mr Sherifo hinted that the reason for his dismissal as
local government minister was his involvement with a
committee drafting a law on political parties.

Democracy

The draft law details the rules for the establishment
of political parties ahead of Eritrea's first general
election in December.

Mr Sherifo outlined the events leading up to his
sacking.

He said President Isaias stopped publication of the
draft laws and then sacked him before his committee
met to discuss the delay in publication.

According to the Eritrean constitution, the draft laws
have to be made public in order to be debated in open
meetings around the country.

They then have to be ratified by the national
assembly.

It is widely known that after this process there will
be little time for political parties to form before
the elections.

Response

Presidential adviser Yemane Gebremeskel said it was
the prerogative of the president to appoint or sack
any minister at any time.

He denied that there was any connection to the draft
law.

Mr Sherifo was one of the highest-ranking members of
the government before he was sacked in February.

There has been much speculation in Asmara as to the
reasons for the sacking.

According to some Mr Sherifo was openly critical of
the president during government meetings.

News of Mr Sherifo's interview spread rapidly around
Asmara, with copies of the newspaper quickly selling
out.

It is unheard of in Eritrea for a senior politician to
speak out publicly against the ruling establishment.