Reports from the Comoran island of Anjouan say separatist leaders have set up a provisional government.

This follows a referendum organised by the separatists, which they said showed overwhelming support for independence.

The French news agency reports that the provisional government is planning to prepare a constitution and organise presidential elections.

The government of the Comoros Islands and the Organisation of African Unity have both rejected the breakaway by Anjouan.

A Comoran government spokesman has appealed to the island group's neighbours to help prevent a disintegration.

The spokesman ruled out further force against the separatists -- following a failed attempt by the government last month to put down the rebellion.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service
 

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