The United Nations observer mission in Angola has for the first time confirmed that the former rebel movement, UNITA, has maintained a military force, in contravention of the country's peace accord.

Three months ago, UNITA issued a declaration of complete demilitarisation.

As a result of this, the movement was legalised as a political party.

The United Nations mediator in Angola, Alioune Blondin Beye, says his observer mission has gathered proof that UNITA has retained a military force in several parts of the country.

Mr Blondin Beye says he now expects to travel to New York at the end of this week for consultations with the Secretary General.

Meanwhile, the UN says UNITA has proposed a new date for the handover of four remaining UNITA strongholds.

UNITA is said to have offered to transfer the areas (of Andulo, Bailundo, Nhareya and Mongo) to government control by June the twenty-fifth.