French Polynesian opposition parties say they have been discussing plans to submit a motion of no confidence in the government of Oscar Temaru formed in March last year.
All but two assembly members stayed away from Tuesday's assembly budget debate, with many opposition politicians meeting the assembly president, Philip Schyle, for talks about a possible new majority.
This comes as the budget is being finalised and four government MPs, including two ministers, keep having negotiations with the opposition.
Mr Schyle says it has to be established that whatever new majority may emerge it can guarantee stability.
The four government members considering defection have reportedly told the opposition's Gaston Flosse that their backing for a new governement is conditional on him not becoming the president.
