Ivorian opposition in new cabinet

Ouagadougou, 01 March-(ANA)-Opposition leaders in Ivory Coast say they are ready to join a new unity government, ending a standoff that has threatened the country's peace process.

The move follows President Laurent Gbagbo's decision to appoint a new electoral commission.

The latest crisis began two weeks ago, when President Gbagbo dissolved the previous body, accusing it of fraud and being controlled by the opposition.

President Gbagbo's decision led to deadly protests.

Early on Friday, the authorities announced a new election commission, headed by a member of the opposition and tasked with preparing long-delayed elections.

Later senior opposition leader Alassane Ouattara told reporters that opposition groups had agreed to take the 11 seats reserved for them in the 27-member cabinet.

Mr Ouattara also said the opposition was "suspending all demonstrations". (ANA)

FA/ANA/01 March 2010------