Differences over an election bill and choice for interior minister have delayed Monday's expected announcement of formation of a new government in Lebanon.

An official in Beirut said talks were under way to break the impasse, which threatens to delay parliamentary elections scheduled for May.

Lebanon has been without a government since mass protests erupted after the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. 

Under intense domestic and international pressure following the demonstrations, pro-Syrian Prime Minister Omar Karami and his government resigned in February. 

He was re-appointed two weeks later after pro-Syrian legislators refused to accept his resignation.

Anti-Syrian opposition leaders say Mr. Karami's inability to form a new government is really a delaying tactic to try to derail the elections, which cannot be held until a new government if formed.