Timor Gap

Timorese rights group loses funds

Sydney Morning Herald - October 15, 2005

Cynthia Banham -- An East Timorese human rights group that criticised the Federal Government over its negotiations with the fledgling nation on maritime boundaries has been stripped of it funding.

AusAID agreed last December to provide $65,830 under the Federal Government's Human Rights Small Grants Scheme to the non- government organisation Forum Tau Matan (FTM) to monitor the East Timorese prison and legal system.

The Foreign Minister, Alexander Downer, announced the grant in a press release marking the 56th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, saying Australia had a "proud tradition of protecting and promoting human rights".

The grant, Mr Downer said, would help "grassroots organisations to support human rights in a direct and tangible way".

But six months later, in June, the organisation received a letter from AusAID, which the Herald has seen, advising it that it would not get the funding because in the past few months there had been a "number of significant developments in the Australian development co-operation program with Timor-Leste".

"In this context, we have been reviewing the ways in which we engage with NGOs in different sectors," the letter stated. However, says the East Timorese aid monitoring group La'o Hamutuk, the reason for the Government's change of heart was a statement signed by Forum Tau Matan in September last year, in which it criticised Australia for its conduct over the controversial maritime boundaries negotiations.

In that statement, the forum and a number of other organisations accused Australia of "belittling" East Timor, and called on the Government to negotiate a permanent maritime boundary "based on current international legal principles".

In May, East Timor and Australia agreed to defer a boundary settlement for 50 years in exchange for Dili receiving 50 per cent of revenue from the Greater Sunrise oilfield in the Timor Sea.

Alex Grainger, from La'o Hamutuk, told the Herald an AusAID officer told Forum Tau Matan staff last month that the reason behind the decision to revoke the funding was that it had signed the statement.

A spokeswoman for AusAID confirmed yesterday that the group's public criticism of Australia had been taken into account by the Government when it decided to revoke the contract.

"Australian government funding decisions are made on a case-by- case basis," the spokeswoman said. "Having reviewed the case of FTM, an Australian Government decision was made not to proceed with funding for FTM's proposed project. This decision took into account FTM's public criticism of Australia. Given that FTM had already incurred some expenses in the expectation that it was to receive funding, the Australian Government provided some financial assistance to meet any reasonable costs."

Mr Grainger said AusAID had subsequently paid the group $7000 in compensation for breaking the contract.

Justice & reconciliation

Xanana asks commission to be cautious

Jakarta Post - October 15, 2005

Wahyoe Boediwardhana, Malang -- Since its inception two months ago, the Commission of Truth and Friendship has reported no progress in its mission to identify those responsible for past human rights violations in what was then East Timor.

However, Timor Leste President Xanana Gusmao has called on people -- both in his country and Indonesia -- to exercise patience in response to the commission's reticent beginnings.

Arriving in the hilly town of Malang for a holiday on Friday, Xanana said the commission had to tread carefully in order to reveal the dark side of the history of the two nations.

"I say don't be in a hurry. They have one year to finish their jobs, with another one year's extension if necessary," Xanana said. "If people of the two countries want a good result, just let the commission work with caution, otherwise it will be unable to find the truth."

The 10-strong commission, which comprises an equal number of people from both countries, is charged with investigating human rights abuses committed during the rampage by pro-Indonesia militiamen in the aftermath of Timor Leste's (then named East Timor) independence referendum in 1999.

Instead of seeking prosecution or punishment, the commission will pursue the confessions of those involved in the mayhem.

Xanana expressed confidence the commission was doing everything right and working in accordance with its designated schedule.

Xanana arrived in Malang after a stopover in Denpasar, where he attended the commemoration of the 2002 Bali bombings, in which 202 people were killed.

On Saturday, Xanana is scheduled to visit Mount Bromo in Malang's neighboring town of Pasuruan. Xanana is traveling with his wife Kirsty Sword Gusmao and their two children.

Indonesia, Timor may seek foreign funds for commission

Agence France Presse - October 10, 2005

Dili -- Indonesia and its former territory East Timor may seek foreign funding for their Commission of Truth and Friendship investigating past bloodshed, East Timor's Foreign Minister Jose Ramos Horta said Monday.

Horta said that for the initial six months, the two countries have raised a total of US$1.5 million to fund the commission that was set up in August to investigate the 1999 violence surrounding East Timor's push for independence from Jakarta.

Horta said this was more than the commission itself had sought for the first six months, but after that there would be a review of whether it needs more cash.

"If needed, Indonesia and Timor Leste (East Timor) will subsidize it and also if needed we will seek support from the international community," Horta said.

The 10-member commission is similar to South Africa's post- apartheid body. It has said it plans to talk to former East Timorese rebel leaders, top Indonesian military officers and former pro-Jakarta militiamen.

Militia gangs, which the United Nations has said were recruited and directed by Indonesia's military, went on an arson and killing spree before and after East Timorese voted for independence in a UN-sponsored ballot in August 1999.

They killed about 1,400 independence supporters and laid waste to much of the infrastructure in the half-island which Indonesia invaded in 1975.

An Indonesian court set up to try military officers and officials for atrocities in East Timor has drawn international criticism. Of the 18 people tried by the rights court, 17 have now been acquitted and one is still appealing.

East Timor gained full independence in May 2002 after more than two years of United Nations stewardship. The government opposes calls for an international tribunal for suspects, saying the priority is reconciliation with its giant neighbor.

Security & boarder issues

There's trouble on the border

The Australian - October 31, 2005

Sian Powell in Tubu, West Timor -- Yosep Palbeno gestures furiously as he tells the story of how he was threatened by five armed East Timorese police officers. Barefoot and grizzled, the market farmer has a garden high in the remote hills of West Timor, on the edge of the international border between Indonesia and the East Timorese enclave of Oecussi.

Increasing violence in these frontier regions has raised the spectre of a return to the black days of 1999, when militias burned and looted with impunity in East Timor and hatred and distrust soared between the Indonesians and the East Timorese.

Although he can't read or write, the 46-year-old from Tubu village says he knows positively that his garden is in Indonesian land, not in the 3km-long no-man's land of Oelnasi valley, and certainly not in East Timor. Yet, he says, on October 15 he was threatened by five armed East Timorese police, who pointed their sub-machineguns at him and told him to abandon his garden. He shouted for help, and about 30 of his friends and neighbours arrived and began to hurl rocks at the police. Later, he says, gesturing to the misty reaches of the valley, he heard shots fired.

Yet Palbeno's first-hand account has been contradicted by a flurry of international reports describing a violent incursion by 200 West Timorese into Oecussi, where they mobbed two East Timorese policemen who were forced to fire warning shots. "No, no, no," Palbeno says. "We never went in there."

In the whirl of claims and counter-claims, in the haze of long- held anger and resentment, and amid accusations of land-stealing, the truth can be elusive. Yet at least nine violent incursions into Oecussi in the past six weeks have been documented by the UN, and the sudden spiral of cross-border animosity has given rise to fears of accelerating clashes between disaffected East Timorese and angry Indonesians.

The swell of violence spurred a series of high-level meetings between East Timorese and Indonesian officials, including the UN mission chief in East Timor, Sukehiro Hasegawa, and East Timor Foreign Minister Jose Ramos Horta, to sort out what is going on and to cobble together some solutions.

Ramos Horta has blamed Indonesia, saying publicly that all the trouble is coming from the Indonesian side. Indonesian Foreign Affairs spokesman Yuri Thamrin says there has been trouble on both sides. "It's confusion," he says. "The border is still being finalised, and the impact is on land use."

Hasegawa says the Indonesian and East Timorese security forces have agreed to keep the local people away from the contentious areas, where more than 4per cent of the border remains unresolved. The UN chief believes the tension might now be dissipating, with no ructions in more than a week.

However, the Indonesian army's Tubu village post commander, First Sergeant Suroso, says the local people are furious. He says his soldiers have found East Timorese police guarding fields in the no-man's land. "I anticipate more trouble," he says bluntly.

The East Timorese police have never been known for their professionalism or impartiality, and they have been accused of serious breaches in the past. Palbeno says the officers who called to him spoke the local language of Dawan, suggesting they might have some regional loyalties.

Palbeno just wants to go on growing his tomatoes. "I have a garden near the border, and the police came to the border fence," he says, squatting on a hill near the thigh-high wall of broken rocks that marks the limit of Indonesia. "They called to me, they asked 'why are you working here?' I answered I was working in my garden, not in the secure land (the no-man's land)."

He holds up his hands to demonstrate how two of the police officers kept their guns trained on him. "He said 'give up your garden and don't come back'," he explains, still clearly furious. "I was frightened. I wasn't on the wrong side of the fence. The police, they said 'go home'. I said I didn't want to go. They pointed their guns at me. I said, 'you can shoot me but I'm not leaving'. I shouted."

The tomato-grower lets loose an astonishing howl, the alarm call he used to call his friends and neighbours to the scene, who responded vigorously to the East Timorese police threats. "We threw rocks at them," Palbeno says.

"The Timor police kept standing in the secure area -- then the soldiers came, and they left. There were shots afterwards, but I'm not sure how many."

From the Indonesian military border post of Manusasi, Lieutenant Sujatmin agrees with Palbeno's account, saying five East Timorese police travelled through the no-man's land valley and threatened Indonesian farmers on Indonesian land. "What the police officers' aim was, we're not sure; maybe they were just patrolling, but they were in the sterile area," he added.

"We could see them through binoculars. They were shouting from a small hill." He believes the East Timorese have in the past burned their own fields, in a ploy to get the UN to stay in East Timor.

Hasegawa says the local people have not been informed of the various developments regarding the border, leading to all sorts of misunderstandings. "They have not been well-oriented yet, and we are asking that the Indonesian side fully brief them," he says.

One Western expert who asked not to be named agrees that the local communities have been poorly informed, and they don't really understand that a line of poles means they will no longer be able to farm in places where they have always farmed. "The border flare-ups themselves are a major security concern," she says. "Neither East Timor nor Indonesia has the capacity or the understanding to keep citizens informed of changes. Things can easily get out of hand."

Although militias could be peripherally involved, she says, the root causes of the incidents are misunderstandings and anger regarding the land. "This is what Australia should be concerned about, because those incidents, not militias, are what is likely to make Australia have to send soldiers to Timor again," she says.

The Indonesian military is adamant the former militias are not staging a comeback. Infantry Colonel Noch Bola says from the military headquarters in the West Timor provincial capital of Kupang that the militias had been carefully watched by the military. "My district military command is always watching those former militias," he says. "We have explained to them the impact of their actions on Indonesia." However, Hasegawa says that while there is no definite proof of militia involvement, it is known that some former militias live in the vicinity of the troubled areas.

Palbeno, who says he has never even met a militiaman, says the people of his village used to farm in the forbidden valley. "In that area, we were farming," he adds. "We had trees, vegetables, cassava. Now we are upset, because the East Timorese are still cultivating the land. We can't."

Across the valley, in Manusasi -- a village so remote only motorbikes can navigate the rutted tracks -- the people explain how much they resent the loss of the valley. Farmer Lamber Obino says he heard the shots a fortnight ago, but he didn't run to join in. "There are soldiers, and they have forbidden us to go there," he says. "But before, Indonesians and East Timorese, we were both working there together."

Ramos Horta leaves Downer on limb

The Australian - October 29, 2005

Sian Powell and Mark Dodd -- From his post high in the misty Indonesian hills of Manusasi, Indonesian First Lieutenant Sujatmin keeps watch on the international border with East Timor.

It's an increasingly important -- and potentially dangerous -- job. In the past six weeks, there have been nine violent incursions over the border, spurring a flurry of international diplomacy.

UN mission chief in East Timor Sukehiro Hasegawa told The Australian yesterday there were grave concerns that tensions were escalating, giving rise to fears of increasing violence in the sensitive border regions.

"We had thought this was increasing; it was increasing and it was of concern to us," he said. "But since we visited both the TNI (Indonesian military) and the police force commanders, we have seen a reduction in these incidents for the past week. We have to see how it will develop."

Yesterday, East Timor Foreign Minister Jose Ramos Horta admitted Indonesian troops had been stoking border violence in the country's northwest -- reversing his earlier denial of military involvement and directly contradicting claims by Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer.

In a Foreign Ministry statement from Dili, dated October 21 and seen by The Weekend Australian, Mr Ramos Horta blamed "misbehaving" elements of the Indonesian Army for provoking a series of border incidents.

"The briefing given by our police in the area seems to confirm that there is some degree of TNI involvement in the incidents," Mr Ramos Horta said.

"However, this possible involvement by some elements of TNI does not reflect Indonesian government policies or official attitude of the TNI leadership.

"We should not tolerate incidents in Oecussi, although there have been too many already in the period of one month. Each and every one of them has been caused by the other side."

Claims of Indonesian military involvement along the disputed border is an embarrassment for Mr Downer, who, like Mr Ramos Horta, last week denied any involvement of Indonesian troops, describing the border problems in Oecussi as a dispute between local farmers.

The 3km valley between the Indonesian town of Manusasi and the East Timorese enclave of Oecussi is now considered a no man's land because the border issue remains unresolved.

Lieutenant Sujatmin said that before East Timor's struggle for independence, East Timorese and Indonesians farmed the land but now, tensions were running high. In the most serious clash on October 15, two East Timorese police were injured in an attack by 200 Indonesian villagers.

Suspect troops on Timor border

The Australian - October 25, 2005

Mark Dodd -- A notorious Indonesian army battalion implicated in mass killings, torture and mutilation -- including the 1999 murder of a Dutch journalist -- is in charge of security along the border with East Timor.

The UN Serious Crimes Unit in East Timor charged Indonesian battalion 745 with the 1999 murders of 21 civilians, including journalist Sander Thoenes.

The head of the UN in Dili, Sukehiro Hasegawa, warned last week about the notorious battalion's presence along the border.

In a cable to UN headquarters in New York dated October 17 -- a copy of which has been obtained by The Australian -- Mr Hasegawa raised serious concerns about militia-related violence along the border surrounding the Oecussi enclave. He also flagged worries about the unit's presence so close to East Timor.

"I wish to inform you that Chief Military Training Adviser Col Reis informed me TNI battalion 745 has now been placed in charge of the border security on the Indonesian side of West Timor," he said. "This battalion, 745, is known for the brutal killings that took place in East Timor in 1999."

Battalion 745 became infamous for the trail of carnage left in its wake after withdrawing in the aftermath of the UN-organised independence ballot.

Thoenes, 30, was shot after the motorbike on which he was a passenger ran into the lead elements of the battalion convoy as it approached the suburb of Becora on the afternoon of September 21, 1999 -- one day after the arrival in Dili of an Australian- led international force.

"Soldiers from the battalion walked up to him (Thoenes) and shot him -- single shot into the chest -- effectively point-blank range," said former UN prosecutor Stuart Alford.

Dutch police later named a junior officer, Lieutenant Camilo dos Santos, as the man who pulled the trigger. Thoenes's left ear was hacked off, his face mutilated and his body dumped by the road.

The battalion's entry into Dili was stalled by Australian troops who almost entered into a major gun battle with the Indonesians.

However, Major-General Peter Cosgrove, the then leader of the intervention force, ordered his men to allow the battalion to proceed on its way to West Timor, ending any chance of apprehending those responsible for the killings.

Indonesian prosecutors later charged two officers, battalion commander Lieutenant-Colonel Jacob Sarosa and Lieutenant dos Santos, with the Thoenes murder but the investigation was dropped for lack of evidence.

Indonesia, Timor Leste sign border deal

Jakarta Post - October 22, 2005

Jakarta -- The governments of Indonesia and Timor Leste have agreed that neither country should use the land around disputed borders at present to avoid possible clashes among people living in the areas, an official said on Friday.

Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Yuri Thamrin said the agreement was reached on Oct. 11 by the negotiating teams of the two countries at a bilateral meeting. "Under the agreement, citizens both from Indonesia and Timor Leste are not allowed to enter the (unresolved) areas," Yuri said.

He said that a recent clash involving people living near the border occurred in an area that had not yet been surveyed.

According to a provisional agreement on the land boundary between Indonesia and Timor Leste signed on April 2005, the two countries' unresolved borders include three kilometers in Manusasi area and four kilometers in Noei Besi. Meanwhile, about 20 kilometers of the Subina border area has not been surveyed yet.

Yuri said that the two teams would hold further discussions on the matter on Nov 2.

All sides play down clashes at East Timor border

Sydney Morning Herald - October 21, 2005

Mark Forbes Jakarta and Cynthia Banham -- Indonesia and East Timor have played down border clashes involving mobs backed by Jakarta's troops, saying they could resolve the building tensions.

East Timor's Foreign Minister, Jose Ramos Horta, said he retained faith in the Indonesian leadership, but yesterday rushed to the Oecussi region, where the violence happened.

Dr Ramos Horta denied the episodes marked a return to the militia violence that surrounded East Timor's independence struggle and said the Indonesian military presence during the violence did not reflect official policy.

Several incidents in the past four weeks were worrying, he said, including a weekend rampage by hundreds of Indonesian villagers where shots were fired, two East Timorese police were injured and property was burnt.

"However, we should not dramatise or exaggerate the seriousness of the situation. It seems that some former militia elements are involved in instigating individuals from West Timor into entering East Timor's territory."

The Australian Foreign Minister, Alexander Downer, was "not overly concerned". He said the Indonesian military was not involved and it mainly concerned disputes between landowners.

"This is not a resumption of militia activity of the sort we saw in 1999," Mr Downer said. "These are land disputes as a result of the delineation of the border -- nothing more or nothing less than that." Dr Ramos Horta also said that the violence in Oecussi was the result of civilian land disputes.

A spokesman for Indonesia's Foreign Ministry said the incidents were a result of misunderstanding over a renegotiated border. "More information needs to be disseminated to people in the border area," he said.

Dr Ramos Horta said he had spoken with his Indonesian counterpart, Hassan Wirajuda, and was satisfied he would take any necessary action to help defuse the tension. "The Indonesia side obviously is acting in good faith," he said.

The United Nations special representative to East Timor, Sukehiro Hasegawa, said investigations were under way into who was inciting the violence.

He refused to comment on a UN cable that reportedly suggested Indonesian soldiers were behind the incidents and that Dr Ramos Horta had threatened to withdraw from the Truth and Friendship Commission with Indonesia, formed to investigate human rights abuses surrounding the independence struggle.

East Timor border at 'flashpoint'

The Australian - October 20, 2005

Mark Dodd -- A mob backed by Indonesian troops has crossed into East Timor, attacked a border patrol and set fire to buildings, threatening the fragile peace between the two nations.

The incident on Saturday in the Oecussi enclave, detailed in a UN cable seen by The Australian, poses a nightmare scenario for Canberra. The cable -- sent on Monday by UN chief in East Timor Sukehiro Hasegawa to head of peacekeeping operations Jean Marie Guehenno in New York -- accuses the Indonesian military (TNI) of provoking multiple border violations in Oecussi.

Mr Hasegawa warns Dili has threatened to pull out of the East Timor-Indonesia Truth and Friendship Commission, following the collapse of tense border takes because of Jakarta's failure to stop incursions by the feared "Okto" militia that started at the beginning of the month.

He expressed grave concern at the prospects of an escalation in violence after the breakdown in the talks, aimed at securing an agreement on a border demarcation for the enclave.

On Saturday, two East Timorese police were wounded and forced to fire 15 warning shots after they were attacked by a mob of 200 Indonesian villagers, armed with stones and improvised weapons, who had advanced almost 1km across the border from Manusasi. "Seven TNI soldiers were seen at the rear of the group, clearly condoning, if not encouraging, this action," he says.

Mr Hasegawa says he received a telephone call from East Timorese Foreign Minister Jose Ramos Horta threatening to pull out of the CTF. "Horta did not hide his anger as he found arrogance and intransigence in the behaviour of some TNI elements and inability of the government to control them."

Opposed by the Catholic Church and unpopular with the East Timorese populace, the CTF commits the two countries to co- operate in the investigation of the mayhem before and after the 1999 UN-backed independence referendum.

Diplomatic sources told The Australian that if Dili withdrew from the TCF, relations between East Timor and Indonesia could plunge into crisis.

Mr Hasegawa warns the border is at flashpoint, saying Jakarta has deployed the notorious Battalion 745 -- implicated in the 1999 murder of church workers and Dutch journalist Sander Thoenes -- on garrison duty along the West Timor frontier.

The Australian yesterday reported on a cable sent by Mr Hasegawa last Wednesday in which he reports violent border incursions on October 4 and 9 by the "Okto" militia.

This is most likely the militia led by Moko Soares, who took part in the massacre of 47 East Timorese men at Passabe in 1999 and is believed responsible for several gun battles with Australian peacekeepers in Oecussi.

Horta blames ex-militiamen for incursions, violence

Lusa - October 20, 2005

Passabe, East Timor -- Foreign Minister Josi Ramos Horta said Thursday that recent incidents on the border between East Timor and Indonesian West Timor in Dili's Oecussi enclave, were carried out by former anti-independence militiamen.

Speaking in Passabe, in the south of Oecussi, where most of the border incursions have taken place, Ramos Horta described the incidents as "serious" and as having been perpetrated by "bandits".

Lusa has seen a document prepared by the United Nations mission in Timor, UNOTIL, which says eight violent cross-border incidents have taken place in Oecussi alone since Sept. 7. Another occurred Wednesday, but without shots being fired or stones thrown, as happened in the other recorded incursions.

Pointing the blame firmly at Indonesians, some of whom were born in Timor and who fled Oecussi in 1999 as they belonged to pro- Jakarta militia gangs, Ramos Horta said it is in Indonesia's interests to resolve the violent and unauthorized border activity.

An Australian newspaper reported this week that members of the once feared "Okto" militia were behind the recent problems in Oecussi. Dili security officials say the gangs are mainly involved in smuggling activities between West and East Timor.

Ramos Horta said the incidents "impact much more on the interests, credibility and good name of the Indonesian state than they do on Timor".

One avenue to improve border security in Oecussi is to change the behavior of the Indonesian military, said Ramos Horta, adding that he believed Jakarta's Armed Forces "are not doing all they can".

The Jakarta authorities are responsible for the frontier and should be much more "rigorous", he said, noting that a nearby Indonesian border post was only 1 meter from the border, rather than about the 500 meters desirable.

Ramos Horta had traveled to Oecussi with other senior Dili officials and the UN's special envoy to Timor, Sukehiro Hasegawa, for talks with Indonesian officials and military commanders on ways to ease tensions created by the recent violent incidents. Dili-based foreign diplomats had also traveled to witness the talks.

Timor's top diplomat said he was aware that a high level security meting took place Wednesday in Jakarta to discuss the frontier problems in Oecussi, adding he was "convinced the situation will be stabilized in coming days".

The Dili authorities remain confident that a definitive border accord will be reached with Jakarta by the end of the year, said Ramos Horta.

Politics/political parties

Socialists consolidate base in local elections

Green Left Weekly - October 12, 2005

Max Lane -- An eight-month election process for village councils has finished in East Timor. Although the village councils have no power and are primarily vehicles through which local people can articulate their opinions, the elections were contested by almost all parties.

The elections gave a picture of the changing balance between the four key parties, FRETILIN, the liberal Democratic Party (PD), the conservative Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the Socialist Party (PST). While FRETILIN won the largest number of village head positions from among the parties, the spread of votes showed that FRETILIN's voter base is steadily falling. In many areas, its votes were less than 50%.

In the last national elections, the PST won just over 1% of the vote. In these elections, standing in just 10% of available seats, the PST won 7% of the total 410,000 eligible votes. The PST received votes everywhere that it stood a candidate -- including in villages where the party has never been active -- indicating that it has now won a national presence. In Dili, the PST had to retreat from its original plan to stand almost 500 candidates due to financial and logistical reasons. It stood candidates in only seven wards, winning a total of 8000 votes, mainly for candidates contesting positions to represent youth on the village councils. "The results augur well for the party to increase its standing in the 2007 elections", PST secretary general Avelino da Silva told Green Left Weekly. "We have built a national profile over the last four years, we are known now in every village, we have gathered 7% of the total national vote, and we have won outright in quite a few of the wards where we have stood candidates."

Government/civil service

Gusmco urges MPs not to neglect opposition

Lusa - October 3, 2005

Dili -- President Xanana Gusmco told lawmakers in East Timor Monday to make fuller use of their constitutional rights to challenge in parliament the actions of the Dili government.

Speaking at the official opening of parliament, Gusmco said he hoped Timor's MPs would be even more "productive and efficient" during the new session.

Referring to a recent report on the legislature's activities by parliamentary speaker Francisco Guterres, the Timorese leader lamented the lack of "guidance procedures in political oversight" stipulated for MPs under the Constitution.

Separately, China's ambassador to Dili says that Beijing will soon begin building a headquarters for Timor's foreign ministry and a new presidential palace in the capital.

In an interview with a Portuguese-language newspaper in Macau, Chen Duqing said the Chinese-funded projects are being studied by the Dili authorities before final approval.

Chinese cooperation will also construct 100 homes for former Timorese resistance fighters, said Beijing's envoy in Dili.

News & issues

First Tetum-Portuguese paper flops after 6 months

Lusa - October 14, 2005

Dili -- The first newspaper to be published in East Timor's two official languages -- Tetum and Portuguese -- has ceased publication after failing to achieve sufficiently high circulation.

The weekly "Lia Foun" disappeared from newsstands Friday in Dili after being launched in May leaving only one weekly title, the Portuguese-language "Jornal Nacional Semanario".

Three daily newspapers exist in Timor: Suara Timor Lorosae, the Timor Post and Diario Tempo. These are all in Tetum and Bahasa, although the Timor Post has a daily news page in Portuguese.

Still waiting for justice

The Mirror - October 12, 2005

The family of a Scots journalist brutally murdered in a war zone are demanding that Tony Blair helps them get justice -- 30 years after his death.

Malcolm Rennie, 29, was shot, stabbed and his body burned along with four other journalists covering the Indonesian invasion of East Timor in 1975. But Foreign Office officials won't call it murder -- and nobody has ever been arrested for the crime.

Malcolm and Brian Peters, from Bristol, were working for Australian TV channels 7 and 9, with colleagues Gary Cunningham, Greg Shackleton and Tony Stewart. On October 16, 1975, Indonesian troops, disguised as East Timorese rebels swept into the village of Balibo.

The reporters had written "Australia" on their house, thinking the Indonesians would respect them as journalists. Instead they were brutally killed -- but even today officials claim they were just caught in crossfire between rebels.

Last night Malcolm's cousin, Margaret Wilson, told how his family are still fighting for justice. And they want Prime Minister Blair and the Scottish Executive to put pressure on the Indonesian Government to punish Malcolm's killers.

Margaret, 59, said: "It's a shame that Malcolm's dad died without seeing any progress. Malcolm's mum died last year at 85. She went 29 years without seeing any progress. Nobody except us seems to want to know the truth. But we know it was murder and we have a pretty good idea of who did it."

The leaders of the Indonesian troops during the invasion have evaded the time limit for murder charges -- but not for war crimes. But campaigners say it will take international pressure to get action.

So far, the Australian and British Governments have publicly accepted that the reporters died in crossfire between warring East Timorese forces.

But after 1994 it emerged that the Australians knew the journalists were in danger. And papers have revealed that British officials tried to persuade the Australians not to raise the British deaths with the Indonesians.

Files have been destroyed as "standard practice" and even photographs of the staged funeral were withheld until 1995 on "compassionate grounds".

After the United Nations took over in East Timor they started an investigation in 2000, treating the deaths as murder. But the UN Prosecutor General refused to issue arrest warrants for retired Indonesian cabinet minister and general Mohammed Yunus Yosfiah, Christoforus da Silva and an East Timorese, Domingos Bere.

Leading campaigner Hugh Dowson said: "Thirty years on, Scots should demand their Government help to put an end to a cover-up that allows Malcolm's killers to go on killing -- and to go on laughing at the UN's efforts to bring them to justice."

Now the campaigners hope an inquest into the death of Brian Peters in Australia in December will return a murder verdict, allowing relatives to put pressure on officials in Britain to act.

Balibo Five relatives still searching for truth

Australian Associated Press - October 13, 2005

Sydney -- It's been 30 years since five Australia-based newsmen were gunned down in the East Timorese border town of Balibo. It's been 30 years since their bodies were dragged into a room, doused in petrol and set alight.

And for the families of the dead, it's been 30 years of heartache, and of grappling with the mystery of what really happened on October 16, 1975. With a coronial inquest due to start early next year, that vexed question may finally be answered.

The Balibo Five, as they've since come to be known -- Greg Shackleton, Gary Cunningham and Tony Stewart of Channel Seven, and Malcolm Rennie and Brian Peters of Channel Nine -- were in East Timor to document Indonesia's invasion of the tiny nation.

Indonesia denied there was an invasion. So the newsmen travelled to Balibo, to the frontline, eager to expose the truth. Indonesian special forces troops entered the town and within an hour the newsmen were dead.

Official reports, both Indonesian and Australian, claim the men were caught and killed in crossfire. But eyewitnesses say there was no battle for Balibo and, therefore, no crossfire to get caught in. Many now believe the men were deliberately murdered.

But questions persist: If the men were murdered, who ordered it? Were the men targeted because their footage might expose the truth about the invasion? What did the Australian government know, and when? Was there a cover-up? What really happened to the men's remains?

There have been two Australian inquiries into the deaths, in 1996 and 1999, conducted by government-appointed former National Crime Authority chairman Tom Sherman. Both times, Mr Sherman upheld the view that the men were killed in crossfire.

But the Sherman inquiries were widely dismissed as inadequate and lacking in scope, and the families of the dead continued to demand that a full judicial inquest be conducted.

Their wish was granted in June this year when NSW State Coroner John Abernethy agreed to hold an inquest into the death of one of the five, Brian Peters, at the request of Peters' sister, Maureen Tolfree. Peters was a British citizen, working at the time of his death as a cameraman for Channel Nine based in Sydney.

Ms Tolfree, now 60, has spent half her life battling to uncover the truth surrounding her "fun-loving and adventurous" brother's death. It's become her crusade, and it's overtaken her life.

"It's just the staggering injustice -- that's what eats you up inside. So I just kept on and on and in the end someone listened to me in Australia," Ms Tolfree told AAP from her home in Bristol, England.

"I'd never thought we'd get this far -- I was quite shocked when the coroner's court agreed to proceed with the case -- I thought the Australian government would put the blocks on it, I thought something would stop it happening."

Ms Tolfree hopes something will come of the inquest to assuage her anguish. "I still miss Brian to this day, I think about him all the time -- he was such a character, he was unforgettable," she said. "It has taken over my life -- all my money has been spent on campaigning, trying to find the truth... My marriage broke up over it because I was so obsessed with finding out, and my health's suffered too -- I've had a couple of heart attacks through the stress."

Counsel for Ms Tolfree, Robert Dubler, said the inquest will undoubtedly uncover new information.

Mr Abernethy has said he will not consider any political events surrounding Mr Peters' death, but would look at whether the cameraman "was in fact murdered and, if so, by whom".

Mr Dubler said the inquest would be different from the Sherman inquiries because the coroner has the power to compel witnesses and compel the obtaining of documents.

"Whilst no-one would suggest that Sherman did anything but an honest and proper job, many people thought that it did not appear to be independent, to have the commonwealth choose an officer to conduct the inquiry," Mr Dubler said.

Mr Sherman only spoke to those witnesses who were willing to speak to him, and no Indonesians were required to give evidence or answer questions, he said.

If the inquest does uncover compelling evidence about who was responsible for the deaths it is extremely unlikely the killers will actually be brought to justice.

Ms Tolfree's solicitor, Rodney Lewis, said some of the facts surrounding the incident would probably be exposed for the first time. "(But) the prospect of getting charges to stick, for a warrant to issue, for a person to be arrested, for a person to be extradited, then for a person to be tried and convicted... yes, that's remote," Mr Lewis conceded.

Already there have been setbacks. Last month a key witness to the killings died of kidney failure. Olandino Maia Guterres, who entered Balibo with the Indonesian troops that day, claimed in 1998 that former Indonesian information minister Yunus Yosfiah issued the order to kill the newsmen after they filmed the attack on Balibo. He told the ABC's Foreign Correspondent program that Yosfiah, then a captain of the special forces, gave the order to shoot the men as they tried to surrender.

The United Nations Temporary Administration for East Timor (UNTAET) investigated Olandino's allegation and concluded there was enough evidence to charge Yosfiah, but could not secure his extradition.

Ms Tolfree, who spoke at length with Mr Guterres, said his testimony left her with no doubt that Yosfiah was behind the murders. "That man murdered my brother," she said. "There were certain things Olandino told me that make me certain he saw what happened, and certain Yosfiah is to blame."

But Ms Tolfree also is not optimistic the inquest will result in Yosfiah's capture, much less a conviction. "I don't think so, no," she said. "Like I said, I really just want the truth told."

Daily media reviews

East Timor daily media review

UNOTIL - October 1-31, 2005

Alkatiri: Longuinhos should resign if allegations proven

Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri has said that if the corruption allegations against Prosecutor General Dr. Longuinhos Monteiro are proven, then he will have to resign from his post. "As the Prosecutor-General and as an ordinary citizen, it is possible for him to make mistakes", said Alkatiri speaking to journalists last Friday. He said that the evidence of such corruption must be presented to the Court. Relating his own experience, Alkatiri said that he has also been accused of corruption in the past, and thus he is careful to guard himself against such allegations. He asked the responsible persons in this case to ensure that the allegations are processed through the correct channels, as it is important that the dignity of those involved is preserved, and that the Prosecutor has the right to clear his name of the allegations. (DT)

Three militia members appear in Court of Appeal

Three ex-members of the militia group Hametin Merah Putih recently captured by the Border Patrol Unit in Tunubibi village, Bobonaro District, last Wednesday appeared before the Court of Appeal on charges related to their involvement in the militia group. The Prosecutor requested that the Court of Appeal maintain the decision of the Dili District Court, and that the three suspects be placed in preventative detention for 30 days to allow time for an investigation. The Lawyer for the accused stated that his three clients had entered Timor-Leste territory to look for firewood, and not for any criminal purpose. He added that, as stated upon their previous appearance in the Dili District Court, their involvement in the militia group had not been according to their own will, but because they were forced by the Indonesian military to participate. Additionally, according to their lawyer, the three were not involved in any killings at that time, but that their participation had been limited to burning of houses. (DT)

Menezes: Timor-Leste confronts global oil crisis

The fuel crisis, currently being experienced by Indonesia, is also affecting Timor-Leste with the price of fuel rising significantly due to global market effects and world oil prices. Member of Parliament from the Democrat Party Rui Menezes explained to journalists that the current global oil crisis is occurring because oil production in the oil-producing countries has declined, while the needs of the oil-consuming countries have risen. He explained further that to confront the crisis the oil- producing countries need to raise oil production, and that "whether we like it or not Timor-Leste will always be affected by global dynamics", because Timor-Leste does not have a program of subsidies, and Timor-Leste is dependent on the 'law of supply and demand". (DT, STL)

Alkatiri: Win or lose, democracy is imperative

Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri has said that winning or losing in the village elections held last Friday is not so important for the government that he heads, but that more imperative is popular participation in the elections.

Speaking to journalists after casting his vote in the elections held last Friday, Alkatiri said that democracy is not just voting in the Presidential and Parliamentary elections, but that the real essence of democracy is grassroots participation. The Fretilin Secretary General said that as the government is committed to democracy, it is important to follow democracy's rules, whether this means that Fretilin will win or lose. (TP)

Director of STAE, Cabral: Fretilin won in Dili, Liquica

Speaking to the Timor Post last Saturday, Director of Technical Secretariat for Electoral Administration (STAE), Tomas Cabral, stated that the temporary results for the counting of votes for "Suco" Elections in both Dili and Liquica districts until 10 PM last Friday evening revealed that FRETILIN party won 49% out of the total available votes. TP also reported that the elections in both districts went well without any incidents. Meanwhile, President of FRETILIN Francisco Guterres "Lu-Olo" stated last Friday that he hoped that FRETILIN would win in the Suco Elections in both Dili and Liquica districts. This, he said, was due to the fact that during the elections of "Aldeia" Chiefs in the two mentioned districts, held on 20 September, the result revealed that FRETILIN obtained the higher percentage of votes. (TP)

Branco: The Closure of British Embassy has got no political motive

Fretilin MP Branco told STL that the decision taken by the United Kingdom government to close its' embassy in Timor-Leste has no political motive and because it is not the first time to happen in Timor-Leste, STL reported. MP Branco stated that if the continuation of UK Embassy in Timor-Leste is only increasing the expenditure, it could be closed and that it is not something that only happened now in Timor-Leste and that Timor-Leste should understand it since it is the decision of the United Kingdom people. MP Branco confirmed further that it won't be only the British Embassy that is going to be closed but other diplomatic mission would also close in the future. (TP) President Gusmco: The Elected Chefi Sucos should serve everyone regardless of their political affiliations

Speaking after casting his ballot on Friday, Sept 30th, President Gusmco stated that he hoped that the elected Chefi de Suco from whichever political party should not discriminate against the population who did not vote for them, reported STL. President Gusmco was reported by the media of voting at the voting centre in the secondary school of Balibar.

President Gusmco also stated that he was not prepared to make any statement on the issue of prisoners' participation in the Chefe de suco election. When asked to compare the election process with the previous year election process, President Gusmco referred to the positive side where the Timorese directly handle technical aspects/responsibility while the negative impact is that protest(s) by many people will always occur. (TP, TVTL)

Annan dismayed Bali hit again by 'terrorist outrage'

UN Secretary General Kofi Annan said Saturday he was dismayed that Bali had once again been struck by terrorists as he condemned deadly bombings on the Indonesian island. "The Secretary-General strongly condemns today's bombings on the Indonesian island of Bali," a statement issued by his spokesman said, after explosions at three packed tourist restaurants killed at least 26 and injured more than 100. "He is dismayed that Bali has yet again been the scene of terrorist outrage almost three years after the attacks of October 2002," the statement said. "He sends his deepest sympathy to the injured and the bereaved of many nationalities as well as to the Indonesian government. He urges the Indonesian authorities to act promptly in identifying and bringing the perpetrators of this cowardly attack to justice."

Saturday's attacks came less than two weeks ahead of the third anniversary of blasts on Oct. 12, 2002 that left 202 people dead, mostly foreign tourists. Police said two explosions ripped through beachside seafood restaurants 100 meters (yards) apart in the fishing village of Jimbaran during the evening meal. Minutes later witnesses said at least one blast tore through the Raja restaurant 30 kilometres (18 miles) away in the shopping district of Kuta, the scene of the 2002 bombings. Those attacks on crowded nightspots were blamed on the militant Islamic group Jamaah Islamiyah. (The Jakarta Post, AFP)

Timor link to region's biggest bio-diesel refinery

Engineering firm MPI Group will build the biggest bio-diesel refinery in the Asia-Pacific region in a deal with Timor-Leste that will create up to 20,000 jobs.Under the 20-year exclusive deal, Timorese farmers will supply feedstock to a $13 million oil-extraction plant -- the largest in the region - to be built by MPI in Cairabela. The $80 million, 250 million litre-a-year bio-diesel refinery is planned for Darwin, but MPI is also looking at sites in Asia. Timorese farmers have been contracted to grow jatropha curcas trees, closely related to the castor tree, to supply the vegetable oil plant in Cairabela. The raw oil will be exported to the refinery in Darwin or Asia, or sold on the open market.

The deal was signed between Timor-Leste's company Daba Loqui Energy, which will contract farmers and help run the oil- extraction plant, and MPI's development arm, Enviroenergy Developments Australia. President Xanana Gusmco witnessed the signing in the capital, Dili. The initial deal was struck in July, but was announced by MPI and EDA this week. The companies are based in Gordon, New South Wales. "Within eight to 10 years, Timor-Leste will become the largest regional bio-diesel oil producer in the Asia-Pacific region," said EDA director Ed Krsevan. He said EDA planned to list on the ASX next year on the back of the project.

MPI managing director Jim Ferretti said the oil contract with Timor-Leste was for 100 million litres of raw vegetable oil, which would increase to 250 million litres. "We're taking a different approach to everyone else," Mr Ferretti said. "It's called a feedstock strategy. We're building up the raw material first because that's where all bio-energy projects come unstuck -- in the supply of materials. "The plantations have started physically, and it will take three years for them to be under full production, so effectively there will be about 25% (oil- extraction) capacity in 18 months, and then 50% in the second year and 100% in the third year. "The bio-diesel production will effectively be about 12 months behind that."

Howard praises Yudhoyono for stance against extreme Islam

John Howard, Australia's prime minister, yesterday praised Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, Indonesia's president, as a bulwark against extremist Islam, underlining the emerging bond between the two leaders. Both leaders have strived to improve a tense relationship, which hit a low when Canberra backed Timor-Leste's independence in 1999 and has recently suffered from populist anger over an Australian woman convicted for drug smuggling in Bali. But Mr Howard has used the latest bombings in Bali, which killed at least three Australians and injured dozens more, to re-affirm his confidence in Mr Yudhoyono and Indonesian authorities in their fight against terrorism.

"This is an attack on democratic Indonesia," Mr Howard said. "We should understand that just as Australians, as westerners, are targets of terrorism, so is moderate, stable, democratic Indonesia, led by a moderate, outward-looking Islamic leader who's trying very hard to bring progress and security to his country." He added: "There is nothing the terrorists want more than to destabilise Indonesia, because Indonesia represents, as a moderate Islamic country, a bulwark against the perverted, obscene version of Islam that is represented by these terrorist attacks."

Mr Howard has offered police assistance to Indonesian authorities and said both countries would rely on the "close and intimate" networks established after last year's tsunamis and the 2002 bombings in Bali in which 88 Australians died. The Australian embassy in Jakarta was bombed last September.

Canberra estimates that there are between 3,000 and 4,000 Australians holidaying in Bali at present -- a number that may have risen because of school holidays in several Australian states.

Both countries have pledged to negotiate a security pact, first announced when Mr Yudhoyono made a visit to Australia in April this year, though no details have been made public. Australia has told its citizens to defer all non-essential travel to Indonesia because of the risk of terrorist bombings. But Mr Howard said he had received no specific warnings of the attack. (Financial Times USA)

22 UN staffers detained since mid-2004: Annan Twenty-two UN staff members have been detained since mid-2004 despite an international treaty guaranteeing the safety of UN personnel, Secretary-General Kofi Annan said on Friday.

The total comprised seven in Eritrea, four in Afghanistan, two in Ethiopia, two in Serbia's Kosovo province and one each in Bangladesh, Indonesia, Iran, Mozambique, Russia, Sudan and Zimbabwe, Annan said in a report to the 191-nation UN General Assembly. He said one UN employee who worked for the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development was listed as missing in Sri Lanka following last December's Indian Ocean tsunami.

The seven held in Eritrea were all Eritrean nationals in custody after being charged with failure to fulfil their national military service obligations, a UN official said. "The United Nations is concerned about its staff and feels strongly against the detention of its staff members," UN spokesman Brenden Varma said.

The General Assembly asked Annan to monitor threats to UN staff around the world after two 2003 bombings of UN offices in Baghdad, including one that killed 22 people. His report covered the period from July 1, 2004, to June 30, 2005. While the world body did not suffer another catastrophic attack during the period, it was marked by "significant threats and risk" to staff, Annan said, citing the situation in Iraq, Afghanistan, Sudan and Lebanon, among others. There was a sharp increase in hostage- takings and kidnappings, and "recent events of international terrorism, while sparing United Nations facilities, presage a further widening of risks that spares no country or activity," he said. (Reuters, the Jakarta Post)

October 4, 2005

Gusmco regrets use of anti-democratic slurs

President Xanana Gusmao regrets the use of anti-democratic slurs launched by some government officials and members of the National Parliament during the village election campaigns. Speaking during the Solemn Ceremony to mark the opening of the Fourth Legislative Parliamentary Session on Monday, the President reminded parliamentarians of his words on last 20 May when he spoke of the abuse of state facilities during electoral campaigns, and voter intimidation. He said that now that the village elections are over, it is time to start considering the electoral law for the general and Presidential elections, which will follow. (STL, TP, Diario Tempo)

Minister Lobato: Indonesian border violations can be taken to UN

Minister of Interior Rogerio Lobato has said that if Indonesian citizens continue to violate the border by crossing into Timor- Leste territory, and if diplomatic efforts to solve the problem are not successful, then the matter should be taken to the United Nations Security Council. Speaking to journalists during the opening ceremony of the Fourth Legislative Parliamentary Session on Monday, Lobato asserted that as Timor-Leste is a sovereign and independent country, it is not appropriate that certain people should be provoking the situation along the border. He said that the international community has made a commitment to monitor the security situation of this country, and therefore if the government has gone to all lengths to reduce the number of incidents but to no avail, then the matter must be sent for UN review. He explained that in his opinion the provocations that have been occurring on the border are related to ex-militia entering Timor-Leste on the grounds of reconciliation, but that this is actually causing instability, as these ex-militia then contact militia in West Timor. He emphasized that not just Indonesians but also Timorese themselves are instrumental in causing this instability. (STL)

Cabral: Final results of CSCS election, 96% for Fretilin

Director of STAE Tomas do Rosario Cabral announced the final village election results in a press conference held yesterday, with Fretilin being declared as the overall party winner with 96% of the votes. In Liquica district, comprised of 23 villages, Fretilin won in 20 villages garnering 86% of the votes there, while in Dili Fretilin won in 30 out of a total of 31 villages, with the 31st village being taken by an independent. The final results will be sent to the National Electoral Commission for analysis, and then the Court of Appeal for final certification. (TP, Jornal Nacional Diario )

MFA, Horta sends double message to Timorese re visiting Bali

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Jose Ramos Horta has appealed to citizens of Timor-Leste to exercise caution when visiting Bali.

Speaking to journalists via telephone from Singapore, the Foreign Minister said that particularly at the current time, Timorese should exercise caution when visiting Bali. Even so, he also requested people not to flee from or isolate Bali as the Balinese people are in need of continuing tourist funds, as their livelihoods largely depend on the tourist dollar. "We must be careful not to support the terrorist aim of punishing the people of Bali who are not at fault...otherwise these extremists will know that they have won", advised Horta. He advised people that if they do visit Bali, it is better to steer clear of popular tourist places. Horta also condemned the bombings, saying that he felt very angry upon hearing the news, and extended his solidarity to the government and people of Indonesia, in particular the people of Bali and the victims of the bombings and their families, on behalf of the government and people of Timor- Leste. He also called on Timor-Leste's own security agencies to take extra measures to prevent such extremist attacks in Timor- Leste itself. (DT)

60 School Inaugurated in 13 District

The Ministry of Education will inaugurate 60 schools in 13 Districts on Wednesday, October 5, reports Diario Tempo. The schools fall under the re-qualification/rehabilitation project, Fundamental School Quality Project (FSQP) and are funded by the East Timor Trust Fund (TFET), which is administered by the World Bank. Prime Minister Alkatiri will be present at the opening of the re-qualification of Metinaro Basic School on Wednesday.

The first inauguration will take place in Ainaro District. A total of 103 schools, (4 basic and 99 primary) are scheduled to be constructed by June 2006, worth US $20 million. (DT)

Sabino: STAE Should Be Independent in Future Elections

MP Mariano Sabino of Democratic Party (PD) stated on Monday that the current work of the Technical Secretariat of Electoral Administration (STAE) in the recent Suco elections would not be suitable for future general elections, adding that this was due to the fact that the Government has its interest in the elections. For future elections, there is thus a need to establish an independent commission by the Court. According to Sabino, the criticism by opposition parties particularly towards STAE's work was aimed to better future electoral work. (TP)

PM Alkatiri: Population Still Have Confidence in Fretilin's Government

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri said that Fretilin's victory in the suco elections revealed that the people of Timor-Leste still have confidence in Fretilin to run the administration.

Moreover, such confidence motivates the Government to work much better in developing the nation. PM Alkatiri took the opportunity to congratulate the citizens of Timor-Leste in successfully participating in the elections, and also the Ministry of State Administration in running them with so much effort and limited resources. PM Alkatiri also appealed to those who won the participative democratic process to maintain unity within the communities, and for those who lost it, to continue respecting the democratic norms and to remain conscious of their obligations as community members. (STL)

Ambassador Sofwan on President Gusmco planned vacation in Bali and thank Timorese people for their solidarity

Indonesian Ambassador for Timor-Leste, Ahmed Bey Sofwan told the media at the President Palace, Palacio das Cinzas that, Timor- Leste's President Gusmco chooses to spend his break in Bali despite the recent bomb attack that claimed 25 lives and injured many others. Meantime, Minister Lobato was quoted as saying that the bomb attack in Bali could spread to Timor-Leste due to the presence of many foreigners in Timor-Leste. He then argued that Bali was chosen ahead of Surabaya, Malang or Jakarta because Bali has a concentration of similar foreigners, such as Americans, Australians and Japanese, who are currently in Timor-Leste. (STL, TP)

Global Geo Services ASA receives new order for Timor-Leste data

The Norwegian seismic company Global Geo Services ASA said on Monday (3 October) that it had received a new order for Timor- Leste seismic data.

The order is worth US $8-0.9 million. Global Geo Services said that total sales for the data now consist of five full sales and two part sells, and that it expects additional sales in the future. One US dollar (USD) is worth approximately 0.55 British pounds (GBP). (NORDIC BUSINESS REPORT)

October 5, 2005

Alkatiri not to interfere in Regional Secretary recruitment

Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri will not interfere in the recruitment of staff that will work with the Regional Secretaries of State. Speaking to journalists after participating in the congress of the Timor-Leste Nurses Association, Alkatiri told journalists that these new civil servants would not be recruited via the normal recruitment procedures, but by a process of nominations. He said that the Secretaries of State would have the freedom to choose those people who they feel they can work well with. "As the Prime Minister I cannot tell the Secretaries of State to choose or not choose certain people, with the possibility that then the work will not get done properly", said Alkatiri. He explained further that these nominated staff members would leave their positions if the Secretary of State were to be removed due to incompetence. (TP)

Leandro Isaac: Timor Telecom exploits Timorese

Member of Parliament Leandro Isaac has criticized Timor Telecom's monopoly on telephone services in Timor-Leste. MP Isaac raised the issue in Parliament's Plenary Session yesterday, saying that most Timorese are not aware of this monopoly and if they were, they would be holding protests toward Timor Telecom. Isaac explained that according to a recent World Bank report the cost of their mobile phone recharge cards, Internet and home landline telephone charges are amongst the most expensive in the world.

Speaking to journalists after the Plenary, Isaac said that Timor Telecom is taking advantage of the Timorese people, and highlighted the contradiction of one of the most expensive telephone services for the people of one of the poorest countries in the world. (TP)

Minibus drivers hold strike due to hike in fuel price

The fuel crisis currently being witnessed in Indonesia is affecting Timor-Leste also, with minibus drivers yesterday striking due to the sharp hike in the fuel price from 77 cents per litre a few days ago, to as high as 90 cents per litre yesterday. Concentrated at the main Dili terminal, the strikers were yesterday evicted from the area by the police because they had not notified police of their action. According to Police Operational Commander Damiao da Silva, people have the right to hold strikes or demonstrations as long as they inform the police of their intentions. Strike Coordinator Agustino Mendes said that the strike was held not against the Government or the National Parliament, but simply to demonstrate the dissatisfaction of the drivers with the sharp rise in the price of fuel. He did ask the government to determine a set transport tariff, as well as to try and lower the fuel price a little. (TP)

Amaral: Border agreement should be communicated to people

The border agreement between Timor-Leste and Indonesia signed some months ago should be communicated and explained to the people of the two countries living in the border regions. Vice- President of Commission B for Defence and Security in the National Parliament Clementino Amaral told journalists that it is important for the border communities to know exactly the location of the border so that further border incidents, like the recent ones in the enclave of Oecussi, do not recur. He said that it is important for the two governments to resolve these problems on a bilateral basis so that there is no need for the issue to be taken to the United Nations. (TP)

Cancio: Educate Timorese should be the first Government's policy

The Director of Dili Institute of Technology (DIT) Joco Cancio said in order for the Timorese to be in charge of the development of Timor Sea natural resources, the government should be given priority to have qualified Timorese through education and intensive training. Cancio said the development of the Timor Sea potentially does not depend solemnly on qualified people but on experienced and skilled capacity of personnel.

He added that although he is aware that the Timorese are still not able to develop the oil and natural gas of Timor Sea due to the country being a new nation currently undergoing training, the government should find ways for the Timorese people to be responsible for the oil and gas reserves of the Timor Sea. Joao Cancio made these comments during the orientation day on Monday. (TP)

Parliament disagree on the figure for Timorese Consulate in Bali

Speaking during the plenary session at the National Parliament, FRETILIN's member of the National Parliament, Elizario Ferreira contested the nominations for Timor-Leste's consulate in Bali, Indonesia. MP Ferreira argued, saying that he rejected the first candidate Joco Meko who has Indonesian citizenship and has lived there ever since the independence of Timor-Leste. He further questioned why Timor-Leste should choose someone from Indonesia to represent the country in Bali. Despite disagreement raised by other FRETILIN's members of the National Parliament, MP Ferreira made a firm appeal to the Minister of Foreign Affairs to re- evaluate the nomination. (STL)

October 6, 2005

Carrascalco: PSD congratulates Fretilin on majority vote

The Social Democratic Party (PSD) via its President Mario Carrascalco has congratulated Fretilin on its majority vote in the recent village elections in Dili and Liquica. Carrascalco told journalists on Wednesday that he accepts the election results, including the fact that PSD lost, and respects the democratic exercise that was the elections. He reminded Fretilin however that the election results showed that they (Fretilin) have lost some of the confidence of the people that originally voted for them in the 2001 elections. The PSD President questioned why Fretilin did not win in the village elections in Bobonaro and Oecussi, but won in Dili and Liquica, reasoning that it seems that the majority party made full use of government facilities for campaigning in this latest round, with successful results. He said that PSD did not campaign for the village elections, preferring to reserve campaigning for the general elections. He also expressed his opinion that in these recent elections the people did not vote according to party, but voted for the candidates that they felt would best serve them. He compared Fretilin's majority of 72% of the vote in the 2001 general elections with the 47% that they received overall in the recent local elections, saying that the people are less satisfied with Fretilin now than they were then. (STL)

Alkatiri: Government considering suspension of tuition fees

Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri has said that his government is considering the suspension of primary school tuition fees, to reduce the burden on parents in educating their children. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony for the new Hera Primary School, Alkatiri said that the government considers education to be very important and a priority for Timor-Leste, as inscribed in the National Development Plan, and on a more global level, the Millennium Development Goals. To this end, the Prime Minister said that the government is focusing its attention very much on education and training, and as such they plan to open another 60 schools in 2006. (TP)

Gusmao visits F-FDTL Headquarters

Timor-Leste President and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces Xanana Gusmco yesterday visited the F-FDTL Headquarters in Tasi Tolu. Speaking to journalists after the visit, President Xanana said that in the three and a half years as President this is the first time that he has visited the Headquarters. He said that the objective of his visit to the Headquarters is to study the current issues of concern, in particular related to the work of the Superior Council for Defense and Security. He added that he would ask the National Parliament to approve the armed forces law, and that the government has also been requested to develop a national defense policy. (STL, JND)

Branco: Not yet necessary to present border problems to UN

It is not yet necessary to take the border problems that Timor- Leste is experiencing to the United Nations Security Council, according to President of the Fretilin bench in the National Parliament, Francisco Branco.

Commenting on the remarks of the Minister of Interior earlier this week that issues of border conflict can be taken to the Security Council for resolution, Branco stated that in his opinion it is still possible for the two countries concerned to resolve the problems themselves, diplomatically.

He explained that border conflict is a common occurrence in many countries of the world, and the few cases of conflict that have occurred on the border between Indonesia and Timor-Leste are no different. He said that he thinks it is more effective to resolve the problems via diplomatic channels, and that this will further build on the friendly relationship currently enjoyed by the two neighbours. (STL)

Isaac: No Chefe de Suco seats for PSD due to the lack of democracy

Speaking to the media following the result of Chefe de Suco for Dili district, the independent Member of the National Parliament, Leandro Isaac stated that PSD did not manage to get any seat for Dili district in the recent Chefe de Suco elections due to the lack of democracy education programme by PSD, Diario Nacional reported. He added that when he was still part of PSD, he always talked about democracy education in order for PSD delegates to start explaining or teaching people about democracy, so that people are not scared since his/her/their freedom is guaranteed. (JND)

Minister de Jesus and Lu Olo on the hike in fuel price

Minister of Transport and Telecommunication Ovidio de Jesus said that he would raise the concern over the hike in fuel prices at the meeting of the Council of the Minister during this week. The rapid hike in the fuel prices has caused a two-day strike by the public transport. Meanwhile, the President of the National Parliament, Francisco Guterres or Lu Olo was quoted as clarifying to the media that the strong increase in fuel prices is not due to the import tax but rather it is due to the impact of international fuel prices. (TP)

Orientation and Consensus Required for F-FDTL to Provide Border Security: Ruak

F-FDTL Commander, Brigadier General Taur Matan Ruak said orientation and consensus is required for members of the Armed Forces to provide security at the border. Ruak told the media on Wednesday that "in order to send F-FDTL to provide security in the border requires orientation and find greater consensus to turn the border into a development area". The Head of the Defence Force said there are three important aspects: the relation/interaction with the population living along the border who are constantly travelling in and out to visit their relatives. Second, it is an area where living conditions are poor and through which 80% of the goods consumed in Timor-Leste are transported. He added that these are the aspects that one must take into consideration that the border should be a pacific area. (JND)

Portuguese town councils support school rebuilding

A dozen small Portuguese towns are funding a project to rebuild schools in Timor-Leste and the latest establishment to be rehabilitated was opened this week. The primary school at Cairui, in the district of Manatuto, was inaugurated Tuesday after being rehabilitated and re-equipped in a scheme worth USD 15,000. The nationwide project was the brainchild of a Portuguese teacher, Rosa Menezes, in Timor-Leste since 2003 and currently an adviser to Dili's Education Minister. (Lusa)

Portuguese usage 'generalized' in less than decade -- Ambassador The use of Portuguese should be "generalized" throughout Timor- Leste in less than a decade, given the combined efforts of the government and Lisbon, forecasts Dili's Ambassador to Portugal. Noting that Portuguese was being taught in grades one through six, Ambassador Pascoela Barreto told Lusa Monday that "within five, six or seven years, Portuguese will be a generalized reality in Timor-Leste's daily life". Barreto said the campaign to "reintroduce" Portuguese in the country, one of its two official languages, alongside the local Tetum, had made great strides since Indonesia's withdrawal in 1999. Progress had been achieved, she said, despite "some resistance" from parts of the population that were educated in Bahasa under Jakarta's occupation, a 24-year period in which the use of Portuguese was banned. Speaking on the sidelines of a Lusophone forum in the northern Portuguese city of Braganga, the Ambassador said that Portuguese usage had already risen to about 25% of the Timorese, from only 5% to 10% six years ago. (Lusa)

October 7, 2005

Australian Government withdraws funding from Timorese NGO

The Australian Government via the Minister of Foreign Affairs Alexander Downer has condemned the financial assistance in the amount of A$600,000 provided to 10 NGOs involved in protests about the human rights situation in the Asia-Pacific region, including the Timorese NGO Forum Tau Matan (FTM). The Foreign Minister's protest has impacted on funding for FTM.

AusAid was scheduled to hold a ceremony to hand over a cheque to the local Timorese NGO in March 2005, but this date was then postponed to June 2005. In June, AusAid invited FTM to a meeting where they informed them that they could no longer support FTM due to their participation in the demonstration against the Australian Government held earlier this year, related to Australia's position on the Timor Sea negotiations. FTM then followed-up with a letter to the Australian Ambassador to Timor- Leste H.E. Margaret Twoomey, requesting clarification on the matter. Ambassador Twoomey responded by saying that the Australian Government's position on the matter was that FTM had made some errors in expenditure. (DT)

Indonesia authorizes Timor-Leste to open three Consulates

The Indonesian Government has authorized Timor-Leste to open three consulates in Surabaya, Kupang and Denpasar. Speaking to journalists upon his return from Bali to accompany President Xanana Gusmao on his private holiday, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Jose Ramos Horta said that as soon as there is budget provision, the new consulate officials will begin their duties in the said offices, either this month or the next.

He added that Timor-Leste Ambassadors have been chosen for posts in Australia and Japan, but that the Ambassadors for Malaysia, Thailand and Mozambique have not yet been decided. (DT)

TNI to put in efforts to prevent terrorism at border

The Indonesian military stationed at the border between Timor- Leste and Indonesia have said that they will continue to monitor the border and remain wary, in the context of recent terrorist threats. According to Captain Yuniar D.H., speaking in Motaain, Belu District, after commanding the flag-raising ceremony to mark the Indonesian military's 60th anniversary, the TNI will work quickly to prevent anything happening in the event of a suspicious situation. (DT)

Ximenes: Many Challenges Ahead for Judicial System

The President of the Court of Appeals, Judge Claudio Ximenes said that many challenges ahead in maintaining a judicial system in Timor-Leste due to lack of human resources. Ximenes noted that one of the aspects of these challenges is the command of the official. He said the Timorese judges, lawyers and prosecutors should fully understand the international and national law in order to protect the rights of the citizens and themselves to guarantee a good judiciary system in a democratic state. (DT)

100 investors to participate in investment conference

Speaking following his return from South Korea, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jose Ramos Horta told media that the Timor-Leste Government has invited more than 100 entrepreneurs to participate in an important conference on the opportunity to invest in Timor-Leste from 28 -- 29 November 2005. When asked regarding his visit to South Korea and Singapore, Minister Horta responded that apart from participating in a peace conference it was also meant to follow-up with the agreement signed between Korean and Timor- Leste Governments regarding employment opportunities for Timorese workers in Korea. (JND)

Belo urges 'intense' action on behalf of Portuguese

The former leader of Timor-Leste's Roman Catholic Church, Bishop Ximenes Belo, has called on Lisbon and Dili for "intense" action to reintroduce the use of Portuguese in his homeland. "Naturally, there is a desire to learn, to conserve, but, on the other hand, there is a need for help and policies to maintain the language in Timor-Leste", Bishop Belo said on the sidelines of a Lusophone conference in northern Braganga. In comments to Lusa, the prelate said it was "not enough" for Portugal to send language teachers to the country, whose government has chosen Portuguese as one of its two official languages, along with the local Tetum. "It is necessary to train Timorese, set up libraries and infrastructures and, above all, to keep some radio, television and newspapers to make the language enter the minds of people spontaneously", he said. Belo called for "more investment", "something intense" on the part of both governments in the campaign to reintroduce the language following nearly a quarter century of prohibition under Indonesian occupation. In addressing the conference, Belo recalled that his people had paid a high price for their attachment to Portugal and the former colonial power's language under Indonesia rule. "You want the Timorese to speak your language", he said, "but the Timorese were beaten, tortured, for speaking your language". Earlier in the conference, Dili's ambassador to Lisbon, Pascoela Barreto, underlined recent progress, forecasting the "generalized" use of Portuguese within less than a decade.

Reintroduction of the language has been a major part of Portugal's significant aid programs in Timor-Leste since the withdrawal of Indonesia in 1999. (Lusa)

October 8-10, 2005

Government to provide subsidies to political parties

Prime Minister and Secretary General of Fretilin Mari Alkatiri has said that all political parties will receive subsidies so that they may participate effectively in the democratic processes. As such, those political parties to receive a subsidy will be those that have seats in the National Parliament. Speaking to journalists at a press conference on Friday at Fretilin's Central Committee office in Comoro, Alkatiri said that in many countries there is a system of subsidies for political parties, but only for those that have seats in Parliament. He explained that in Timor-Leste the amount of the subsidy will not depend on the number of seats that each party holds in the Parliament, and that the provision for this subsidy system will be included in the electoral regulation for the 2007 elections. He explained further that any one party would need to win 5% of the vote (25000 votes) to be able to win a seat in Parliament. (TP)

Lu Olo: Fretilin wants to govern well

President of the Fretilin party Francisco "Lu-Olo" Guterres has said that Fretilin wants to govern well through a political strategy and plan, in order to carry this nation into the future. Speaking at a press conference at Fretilin's Central Committee office in Comoro on Saturday, Guterres said that even though Fretilin lost in some places in the recent village elections, in general they won in most places. He said that before the elections, people were saying that the results from the capital Dili would be considered a barometer or indicator of party support, and the reality is that Fretilin won by an absolute majority in the Dili round of the elections. Guterres said that Fretilin won because of their struggle and courage for the nation of Timor-Leste, and that Fretilin has a great responsibility to serve the nation, considering the support that they received in the recent elections. (JND)

UNDP assists development of prisoner capacity

Thirty-six prisoners from Becora prison were presented with certificates last Thursday, after completing professional training as a part of UNDP's Justice System Project. Speaking at the ceremony, UNDP country representative Sukehiro Hasegawa said that UNDP is keen to continue to support prisoners in order to further develop their capacity before they leave prison. Government officials present at the ceremony included the Minister for State Administration Ana Pessoa, Minister of Justice Domingos Sarmento, Minister for Labour Arsenio Bano, and Minister of Defense Roque Rodrigues, as well as members of the diplomatic corps. In his speech, Hasegawa thanked the Ministry of Justice for the excellent training that they provided, as the training will assist them in developing skills so that they are better prepared when they return to society, as well as assisting them in raising their dignity. The training programs, begun in June 2004, included training in manufacturing, carpentry and construction, literacy and Portuguese and English language. Minister of Justice Domingos Sarmento told journalists after the ceremony that the project was made possible with the assistance of not only UNDP, but also the governments of Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Denmark, Ireland, Norway and Portugal. (TP)

Horta on Timor's consulates in Kupang and Bali

Indonesia has authorized Timor-Leste to open three consulates in Bali, Kupang, and an honorary one in Surabaya. However while a Consulate official for the Kupang office has already been chosen, the Timor-Leste government, namely the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, has not yet nominated someone to fill the Bali post. "We will just have to wait until we find someone suitable for the Bali post, as the Ministry does not have many people", said Horta, while also declining to give the names of the new Consul-General's for Australia and Japan. (TP)

Minister of Development to Ask for Information from World Bank and Timor Telecom

Minister of Development Abel Ximenes stated last Friday that his Ministry would ask both World Bank and Timor Telecom for information related to the recent assessment by the World Bank that Timor Telecom charges the highest rates for communication services in the world, and also the fact that the issue was raised recently at the Parliament's plenary session by MP Leandro Isac. Ximenes. He added that after analysing the comparative data on the matter provided by both institutions, he would then be able to comment, and take any necessary measures. (Timor Post)

First UNDERTIM Headquarter established in Bucoli, Baucau

Timor Post reported that the newly founded party UNDERTIM established its headquarters in Bucoli, Baucau, last Saturday. UNDERTIM's spokesperson Cristiano da Costa stated that the establishment of the headquarters is to strengthen and foster the party, adding that Bucoli was chosen as the base because it was where Timorese Resistance started its struggle. Da Costa further said that Bucoli has become the model and the mirror for the democratic process to be fostered in Timor-Leste. Speaking at the opening ceremony, President Cornelio Gama a.k.a L-7 said that UNDERTIM would not promise anything to its followers but wishes that the aspirations of the people be considered. He added that establishing the HQ in Bucoli aims to carry out the political views of the late Vicente "Sahe" Reis (one of the principal members of Fretilin, originally from Bucoli) who stated that national unity is important in the struggle for independence. (Timor Post) Alkatiri: Church is an important component in Timor society

Speaking that the Headquarters of Fretilin, the Secretary-General of Fretilin, Mari Alkatiri said that the relation between the church and the Fretilin political party has always been good. He added that the good relation is not just with Fretilin as a political party and the church but also with the Government and the State of Timor-Leste. Alkatiri appealed that the relation between the two institutions should improve in Timor-Leste. (TP)

October 11, 2005

Rice Fields Dry Up Due to Lack of Water and Provocation on Border

It is reported that 145 hectares of rice-fields in the sub- district of Nitime (Oecussi) have dried up because the river that feeds the paddies, which flows from the Indonesian side of the border, has been closed off by Indonesia. Speaking during Monday's plenary session in Parliament, independent MP Antonio Lelan said that previously both sides of the border had utilized the river for irrigation for their crops, but that now the river has been cut off. The farmers have requested the National Parliament and the Agriculture Commission to communicate the matter to both the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Lelan told the session that the Agriculture Commission would visit Oecussi soon to study the situation directly.

In separate news, it is reported that communities living in the border regions on the Indonesian side of the border have been destroying crops on the Timor-Leste side of the border, specifically at Passabe. Responding to journalists questions on the matter yesterday, PNTL Commander General Superintendent Paulo de Fatima Martins said that the Timor-Leste National Police have been communicating with the Indonesian military in the border area in order to resolve this situation, and that the PNTL have also begun to establish security posts in the areas which seem to attract conflict. Martins will today travel to the border areas to see the situation directly. (Diario)

CTF to Interview Military Involved in Crimes

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Jose Ramos Horta has said that the Comimission for Truth and Friendship will begin its substantial work this month, including studying the documents regarding human rights violations that have come from the Serious Crimes Unit, as well as beginning interviews of military officers accused of being involved in crimes. When asked by reporters whether the interviews of military officers would begin with Wiranto, the Minister said that he did not know. Horta reiterated that the funding for the Commission will be provided by the two governments themselves, with a contribution of USD 1 million from Indonesia and USD 500,000 from Timor-Leste. (Diario, STL)

World Bank Donates Computers to Universities and NGOs

The World Bank has donated 20 computers to NGO's and universities in Timor-Leste, with a short handover ceremony for the computers being held at the World Bank office in Lecidere last Friday. The donation is part of the Bank's program to assist NGO's involved in the areas of education, health, social services, governance, vocational training and development programs.

Representing the beneficiaries, as director of NGO LABEH, Christopher Henry Samson said that LABEH very much appreciates the donation, which will assist LABEH in its everyday training activities, and will facilitate the effective participation of Timorese in the development process, as well as improve communications between the World Bank and local NGO's in Timor- Leste. LABEH is one of a large number of local NGO's to receive the donation. (Diario)

ASDT Members Injured During Police Actions

According to the media, members of PNTL officers stationed in Fohorem, Covalima sub-district, detained and beat ASDT members who were organizing their congress in that area. MP Maria Valadares (ASDT) raised the issue during Monday's Parliamentary session, noting that PNTL commander for Fohorem with the initials JC ordered the detention of around 11 ASDT members in the beginning of the month of October. Valadares said that out of the 11, 9 remain in detention in Suai while 2 were brought to Dili with one seeking medical treatment in the national hospital, very sick as a result from the beatings. "I appeal to the police to be neutral and impartial in order to defend the rights of all people," said Maria Valadares, adding that she is not aware of any problems between the police and members of her party that led to their detention. She added that even if there were problems with the police, beatings are not part of procedures for anyone in police detention. In the meantime PNTL commander Paulo Martins said UNPOL has been given anti-terrorism training to PNTL trainers as a step of preparation in case of similar attack terrorism attack in Timor-Leste. (STL, Diario, TP)

Government Shuts Down Dili Hotel 2000

PNTL officers on Monday shut down Dili Hotel 2000 following a decision by the Ministry of Justice and Land and Properties, for not paying taxes in the last five years. According to Land and Properties Director Pedro Xavier, those responsible for the hotel, " since 2000, have not paid any taxes to the state to date". The owner of the hotel reportedly said he disagrees with the decision of the government to evict them without warning notice. "I'm not happy with the government decision. My contract has not expired. It expires on 2006, but the government forced me to move out, but we are waiting on the court's decision," said the manager of Dili Hotel 2000. The manager of the hotel said he cannot continue to pay the 15 Timorese staff employed by the hotel who no longer have jobs and that it is the government's responsibility. (STL, Diario, Timor Post)

October 12, 2005

UNDERTIM Headquarters Damaged

It is reported that the headquarters of the UNDERTIM political party in Bucoli, Baucau, were last Saturday damaged. Speaking to Timor Post yesterday evening by telephone, spokesperson for UNDERTIM's Presidential Council Cristiano da Costa said that Fretilin members reacted negatively to the establishment of the headquarters, and police were required to intervene in the situation. Additionally, da Costa said that on Monday afternoon some local youths affiliated to Fretilin attempted to steal UNDERTIM's flagpole, but were prevented by police from doing so. The following morning, however, they did manage to steal the UNDERTIM flag along with the national flag which had just been raised by the local population some days earlier. "This politically motivated behaviour can be considered illegal and criminal, as well as undemocratic, as it demonstrates a lack of respect for the existence of other political parties", said Cristiano. He said that he hoped the police would arrest the responsible persons, and that Fretilin leaders would reflect seriously on the behaviour of their party members, as these actions are inconsistent with Fretilin's desire for a pluralist society. He added that UNDERTIM party members together with their leader L7, on Tuesday afternoon raised their flag once again. He expressed his disappointment with the lack of police action on the case, even with a direct report to the PNTL General Commander Paulo Martins. (TP)

Australia Yet to Show Goodwill It is reported that even though Timor-Leste and Australia are undergoing continuing negotiations to come to a resource sharing agreement acceptable to both countries, Australia is yet to demonstrate goodwill in coming to an expeditious decision. Manuel Mendonca from the Prime Ministers Cabinet for Timor Sea issues told journalists on Tuesday that there are two aspects to the negotiations -- one set of negotiations of a political nature between the two governments, and the other of a technical nature with Woodside, the company that will explore the oil and gas. Mendonca explained that production of the oil and gas in the Greater Sunrise field cannot yet commence, as the two governments have not yet come to an agreement. He said that the position of the Timor-Leste Government is that there will only be an agreement if the pipeline will run to Timor-Leste. "Otherwise, it is better that we just cease negotiations", he said. (TP, STL)

CPD-RDTL Organizes Community Gardening To Assist Widows And Orphans

Members of the CPD-RDTL group in Bobonaro have organized community gardening to support widows and orphans, reported STL on Wednesday.

"The rainy season is almost here and we want to start our community gardening program. Members of CPD-RDTL in 10 posts in the districts have also organized to focus on this program with the aim to help our sisters, mother, widows, those who've lost their husbands, the children who lost their parents fighting for independence," said Domingos Combat, coordinator of region III. Combat stresses that the program is important because according to his group, to date, most of the population are still living in poor conditions and they need the support and contribution from all people.

He added that the areas for the program have been identified with good soil for community gardens. The Secretary of State for region IV, Cesar da Cruz said it is a good initiative by CPD-RDTL and they should be congratulated.

In a separate article, STL reported that FAO through the Ministry of Agriculture, Forest and Fisheries distributed food seeds to 60 former combatants in the districts of Kailako and Bobonaro to better their lives.

The distribution was carried with the aim to enable the former combatants to sow the seeds in the wet season. (TP, STL)

Cooperation Not Confrontation at the Border: Lobato

Minister of Interior Rogirio Lobato says that the border needs to be transformed into an area of cooperation and not confrontation. Lobato said as Minister of Interior he wants the border to be transformed into a cooperation zone, and the two countries must work hard to avoid conflicts.

On Tuesday Minister Lobato visited Oecussi enclave to see the problems, which have now been resolved, reported STL. He said the demarcation of the border by the governments of Indonesia and Timor-Leste may not be accepted by the population living along those lines therefore the two governments must provide information and clarify about the demarcation which have been completed. " I feel that from our side, the socialization went well and we hope that our friends from Indonesia can also socialize with their communities". The Minister of Interior said the question of taking the border problems to the UN is no longer a concern as the small problems are now resolved. (STL)

Director of EDTL, Ximenes: Macau company does not have the capacity to handle EDTL operations

The director of EDTL (the Central Power of Timor-Leste), Helio Ximenes told STL that it is better to replace the current operating company handling the power supply business in Timor- Leste since it has not made any improvement or development to the operation of Timor-Leste power supply and its management, STL reported. He added that since there has not been any development within EDTL after two years of the company's operations, it is clear that the company does not have the capacity to handle the operation of Timor-Leste power supply. Therefore, he suggested that the Timor-Leste government replace the operating company with another one. (STL)

Editorial: Once Again, Police Involved in Beating

If the news reported in Parliament's Plenary Session on Monday is correct, it seems that police officers in Fohorem sub-district, Suai, have been involved in the beating of an ASDT party member, and that the motto of the police organization "Law and Order" can be considered just a veil. The ASDT member whom the police are accused of beating required medical treatment at the Guido Valadares National Hospital as a consequence of the beating.

What is it that is causing our police to not act as protectors of the people, but as 'tigers', distant from the people? How more effective can the guidance that our leaders give be, to prevent the police from violating their functions? Why are our police and their leaders not using previous incidents as lessons learned, so that the same mistakes are not made again? The people know that our police officers spend three months in training at the police academy, and that they then gain experience in the field. Is this still not enough for our police to develop basic discipline?

Finally, we ask the PNTL leaders, as well as the relevant authorities in the Ministry of Interior, to pay serious attention to this recent behaviour, because this nation is going to face many future challenges that will require the maintenance of security and law and order, in order that the development process may continue. (TP)

October 13, 2005

Fretilin admits to lowering UNDERTIM flag

It is reported that Fretilin has admitted to lowering UNDERTIM's flag in Luliheni village, Bucoli, Baucau, last week. A spokesperson for the Fretilin party Carlos Baptista, also village chief of Luliheni village, explained that UNDERTIM had failed to explain their presence to the local community, and in particular to Fretilin as the majority party in that area. Baptista told journalists on Wednesday that although of course it is not prohibited for the party to raise its flag, it is only natural that that party should inform the majority party of its intentions, and they must also respect the local community authorities as chosen by the people themselves in democratic elections. He further clarified that the equipment seized from the UNDERTIM headquarters, including the flag itself, are currently being held at the Bucoli village hall, awaiting joint discussions between the two parties. (TP, JND, STL)

Hasegawa and Martins comment on border meeting

Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General in Timor-Leste Sukehiro Hasegawa on Wednesday held a meeting with Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri to inform him of the results of the meeting held between Indonesia and Timor-Leste regarding the recent difficulties on the border. The meeting between the two countries and facilitated by UNOTIL was held on Tuesday, 11 October. Speaking to journalists after his meeting with the Prime Minister, Hasegawa said that he told the PM that the meeting went well, and that the Indonesian military are working toward creating a situation of calm in the border areas, including providing information to the border communities regarding the objectives of the border demarcation process. Hasegawa confirmed that the meeting had been attended by a range of officials, including TNI Commanders, the Indonesian Ambassador to Timor- Leste, the PNTL General Commander, the Regional Secretary of State for Oecussi, and representatives of the Ministry of State Administration, among others. He said that there needs to be an improvement in communication between the TNI and the BPU, which would be facilitated by the provision of communication equipment and transport facilities. He added that the two sides would be meeting again for further discussion of border issues.

PNTL General Commander Paulo Martins also told journalists that the meeting held between the two countries was positive, and that both sides agreed to maintain and guarantee security from their respective sides of the border, so that further problems do not arise. In his meeting with the Prime Minister, Hasegawa also discussed preparations for the upcoming withdrawal of UNOTIL, including the 45 UNOTIL/Government Advisors from Timor-Leste on 20 May next year, as well as preparations for the UN's 60th birthday celebrations on 24 October. He told the PM that the UN Secretary General Kofi Annan will send one of his special representatives, Mr. Witler, to be present at the Timor-Leste celebrations. He also requested the people of Timor-Leste to participate in this historic UN occasion. He did not reveal however the activities that are planned for the day. (TP, JND, STL)

Role of Media to Combat Corruption

It is reported that NGO LABEH organised a workshop focusing on the role of the media in combating corruption and establishing good governance.

According to the Director of LABEH, Christopher Henry " we have heard many times from the Inspector General that he's carrying out investigations and fiscal reports regarding corruption. But so far the process has not been good. We have quite a number of media outlets here but no one has asked what has happened and why none of the reports have been made available to the public". Henry stressed that Prime Minister Alkatiri has also stated the government is against corruption and is working to combat corruption and there has been cases of corruption taken up to the Prosecutor-General but to date no one knows the final process. (STL)

Branco: All political parties have the right to exist

Head of the Fretilin bench in the National Parliament Francisco Branco has reportedly said that all political parties have the right to exist in Timor-Leste, as this is a democratic and multi-party nation. Speaking to journalists related to the actions of Fretilin members against the UNDERTIM headquarters in Bucoli, Baucau, he said that in a democratic society a political party is permitted to establish its office wherever it desires.

However he said that, although he does not agree with the behaviour demonstrated, he emphasized that it is important to study the particular situation at hand, as Bucoli is one of Fretilin's strongholds, and it is important to cooperate with the village chiefs if there is an intention to establish an office in the area. (Diario Nacional)

Tilman not selected to be the President of Commission C

Jornal Nacional Diario reported that Antonio Cepeda of Fretilin political party beat Manuel Tilman of KOTA with a vote of 9 against 5 to be the new president of the National Parliament commission C on Wednesday, 12 Sept.

After his election, Antonio Cepeda told media that the existence of the National Parliament Commission C is to cooperate with the government of Timor-Leste in terms of budget implementation of the national budget for this year. (Diario Nacional)

Dr Murphy: 10 More Timorese infected with HIV/AIDs

It is reported that Dr Daniel Murphy of the Lanud Clinic told media that based on the info the clinic has gathered during this week, 10 Timorese were found infected with HIV/AIDS due to abusive sexual behaviour, Diario Nacional reported. He added apart from the above discovery of the Timorese being infected with HIV/AIDs, the other most common diseases treated at Lanud clinic are malaria, dengue, pneunomia, cancer and high blood pressure, and others. The report also mentioned that Lanud clinic which cooperates with the ISMAIK Institution normally treats 300 people on daily basis. (Diario Nacional)

Police wanted for international operations

New Zealand police are sought after for deployments in international operations because of their professionalism and ability to get on with local people, Foreign Minister Phil Goff said today.

"In one sense, our small size is also our strength," he said in a speech to the Police Association annual conference.

"We are not seen to constitute a threat. We are not seen to be pursuing agendas other than to help as a friend and a good neighbour."

Mr Goff said New Zealand police had worked successfully in the Pacific and South East Asia, including Bougainville, East Timor and the Solomons.

"What has made our contribution stand out has been the professionalism, commitment, and the ability to relate to and get on with local people," he said.

"For these reasons, New Zealanders are much sought after for deployments in international operations by organisations such as the United Nations, and by other countries."

Mr Goff said he would like to see the police doing much more of this work, but there were obvious constraints.

"There are obvious benefits as well. It is a way in which New Zealand can contribute to international wellbeing and security...it can bring individuals a new and interesting dimension to their career and experience within the police force."

He also told the conference how a New Zealand police officer smashed a coffee table, grabbed one of its legs and chased away a mob of machete-wielding East Timorese militia.

Mr Goff said he visited East Timor during its chaotic independence referendum in 1999 and worked alongside police officers who were part of an international team.

"The risks were very real, with an armed militia intent on preventing East Timorese independence," he said.

"I have a vivid memory of arriving at an inland town called Ainaro on the evening of the voting and being greeted by then Constable Rangi Maniapoto."

He said he was told he should not be there because militia had intended killing foreign observers. The plan was aborted.

"Rangi, a fellow New Zealand officer and a member of the Australian Federal Police, had earlier come under attack at their office in Ainaro by a group of men armed with machetes," he said.

"Fortunately the East Timorese are rather small and Rangi is about six foot three, and that's across the shoulders.

"Smashing a coffee table, he picked up one the table legs and charged towards the mob yelling in the best traditions of King Country rugby at the top of his voice.

"The militiamen, confronted by a giant and seemingly possessed Maori charging towards them, paused and then fled from the office." Mr Goff said Rangi was now a legend in Ainaro. (New Zealand Government Press Release, NZPA, NZHerald)

October 14, 2005

Alkatiri and UNDERTIM comment on UNDERTIM case

Responding to criticisms from UNDERTIM regarding the actions of Fretilin members toward the UNDERTIM office in Bucoli, Baucau, Fretilin Secretary General and Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri said that such a reaction from the people is normal. Speaking to journalists on Thursday, Alkatiri said that if the local people do want to accept a particular political party flag, the police should support them. He said that anyone who wants to open a political party office in a certain area should first work to get to know the local people, rather than utilizing the police to provide security for their flag. According to UNDERTIM spokesperson Cristiano da Costa, the Bucoli village chief Terezinha dos Reis, who ordered Fretilin elements to bring down the flag, has violated the political party law of 2004.

Speaking at an UNDERTIM press conference yesterday, da Costa said that this behaviour is undemocratic, and 'regionalist', and compromises democratic process. (TP)

Alkatiri will fire the staff of EDTL

It is reported that Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri stated that the constant power-cuts are not due to the technical concerns that the experts are trying to address but the power-cuts continue to occur due to the reluctance of EDTL staff (National Electicity Department) to do the job, STL reported. He added that if power- cuts occur due to the staff's reluctance then foreigners would be brought in to solve the problem.

When asked about conducting an inspection of the management of EDTL, PM Alkatiri said that the Inspector-General could not do everything and that it will be complicated. He then assured that an inspection would be conducted into EDTL operations. (STL)

Hasegawa: TL a success

SRSG Sukehiro Hasegawa has said that Timor-Leste is a success story, as it strives to attain proper democratic processes. Speaking to the National Parliament yesterday, after handing over car keys and other equipment to the various permanent Parliamentary Commissions, Hasegawa said that there is an expectation from the international community that Timor-Leste will be able to demonstrate a great level of success in democratization, when compared to other post-conflict countries. (TP)

Court Order evicts Gui Campos

It is reported that Dili District Court officers on Thursday performed an eviction at the home of Gui Campos in the Mandarin area, Dili, on order from the Dili District Court and with the assistance of the PNTL. The eviction was met with some resistance from Campos, with him protesting that the eviction of his belongings into a container should have been preceded with a letter explaining the procedure to him, and that the executors should be Timorese, and not foreigners. Benevides Correia Barros, lawyer for claimant Mario de Jesus Pires, explained that the case was decided in the Dili District Court in April, and was then appealed, but the Appeals Court maintained the decision of the District Court. It is also reported that a TP journalist's camera was taken from him by the officer whilst filming the eviction yesterday. (STL)

Appeal Court Staff Confiscates Journalist's Camera

Diario Tempo reports that the people of Timor-Leste have put their full faith in international staff as pioneers of peace and freedom for this country, but instead they are the ones violating what they preach. They are trying to prevent the freedom of the press, which the people believe is a bridge between the population and the government. They have said that the media must be fair, impartial, credible and proportional but they are the one who are disproportional.

It is alleged that an International Staff of the Appeal Court, on Thursday, (13/10 around 10:00hrs) in Avenida Martires da Patria, Mandarin, she confiscated a Sony camera, Diario Tempo journalists and correspondent of Agencia de Noticias International APTN, Jose Antonio Belo. It is alleged that the incident occurred when the court decided that the house occupied by Guy Campus, should be vacated. It is reported that while filming the event, Alda Pereira approached the journalist in trying to stop the eviction and without saying anything she grabbed the journalists' camera and allegedly tried to erase the film already recorded by the journalist.

It is further reported that the journalist tried to ask for an explanation and who authorized for the confiscation of the camera, but without any answer, he returned to his office. MP Clementino Amaral (KOTA) said those people who reject journalists from covering this type of story show that they are not professional, and more likely does not know the legislation and should get further education.

MP Manuel Tilman (KOTA) said Alda Pereira made a big mistake, and that the tribunal does not have the competence to look into all these problems. "According to article 42-47 of the constitution on the freedom of the press, the journalists have the right to inform the community.

Therefore the staff of the Court of Appeal does not have the right to stop a journalist from reporting," said Tilman. (Diario Tempo)

Indonesia to help crackdown on fishing

Indonesian officials may help customs officers trawl Australian waters as part of a plan by the two nations to crack down on the growing illegal fishing trade. Customs Minister Chris Ellison, back in Australia after two days of meetings in Indonesia, said the initiative could involve the exchange of customs officers between the two countries as part of a more coordinated approach to the problem.

The number of illegal fishers heading into Australian waters had jumped significantly over the past two years, with 11 boats apprehended off northern Australia last weekend alone. The joint approach was prompted by the security implications of the fishers being found within Australia's maritime borders.

The government was attacked for not providing sufficient resources to guard Australian waters, which critics said left the nation open to attack or an influx of disease. "It's not just a fishing question as much as a border control issue," Senator Ellison told AAP.

Australia and Indonesia were even considering co-opting East Timor into the proposal in a bid to safeguard the vast expanse of the Timor Sea. East Timor was an important element because it needed to give permission for surveillance in the region known as the Joint Petroleum Development Area.

"They're not against us doing that, they're very supportive," Senator Ellison said. "We really need to streamline our cooperation." The idea centred on a more coordinated approach between the participating countries but would not necessarily involve joint patrols. Senator Ellison saw the possibility of Australian customs officers being sent to work with their Indonesian counterparts and vice versa. "There's no reason we couldn't have officers exchanged to work from both sides," he said.

This week the government announced plans to inject $88 million into the battle against illegal fishing. The money would go toward extra customs and fisheries officers, as well as new tactical response vessels. The government expected additional funds would help with detection and seizures and speed up the process once they were found. "It will make the process much smoother and free us up to get our boats out again," Senator Ellison said. (ABC Radio)

October 15-17, 2005

Alkatiri: Government preparing durable infrastructure

The preparation by the government of infrastructure for 60 new schools for Timor-Leste is not an election ploy, according to Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri. Writing in Diaro Tempo, Alkatiri says that the inauguration of these schools is not political campaigning, but that the government is doing this as part of national development programme. In the article he explains that the infrastructure which is being built will be durable enough to last for 100 or 200 years, with education being one of the priorities of the National Development Plan and the Millennium Development Goals. (Diario Tempo)

MP Tilman: PM has made a big mistake

It is reported that the statement from Fretilin Secretary-General Mari Alkatiri that the attack on the UNDERTIM flag in Bucoli is a normal response from the people has been strongly criticized by KOTA President MP Manuel Tilman. According to Tilman, the Prime Minister should not make such statements, but should instead emphasise that in a democratic nation it is important that there is respect for different beliefs. He said that Alkatiri's words are a big mistake, as they legitimize this behaviour, and gives the impression that there is no law and order in this country, signifying a descent into anarchy. He conceded that as the President of KOTA, he would introduce his political party and its delegates and members to the relevant parties in villages before he would allow his party to raise its flag there. Commenting on the government food stocks policy, Tilman said that in his opinion this is a valuable policy. However he believes that it would be incorrect to associate Fretilin's name with the policy, as opposed to the government. He said that the money for this food comes from taxes and oil revenues, therefore it is the people's money, and does not belong to any one party. (TP, DT)

Do Not Be Scared of a Possible Invasion: Gusmco

President Gusmco warned of a possible conflict among the Timorese in a film documentary produced by Max Stahl, the journalist who filmed the 12 November massacre. In the documentary titled " Timor After Independence," Gusmco said that many Timorese are scared of another invasion by Indonesia, but they should be more concerned about killing each other as many people have used the veterans' problems for political interests, reported Diario Tempo on Monday. The film was launched on Friday in coordination with Arte Moris to celebrate the rights of the people. (DT)

Coverage on Allegations Against Police in Laleia

It is reported that three PNTL officers on 13 October allegedly threatened the local population in Laleia, Manatuto District, by "firing guns and in general mistreating three members of the population". According to a press release issued by HAK Association on Sunday, the incident was related to a traffic argument and resulted in a police assault on the three men.

According to the HAK press release, this police behaviour and attitude is contrary to the Timor-Leste Constitution and the International Convention Against Torture, which has been ratified by Timor-Leste. The three police officers concerned, from the Police Traffic Unit, have since been suspended, according to PNTL General Commander Paulo Martins, based upon the fact that they were unable to control their emotions, and resorted to violence. He said that the case will be submitted to both criminal and disciplinary investigation, and that the officers concerned may have disciplinary action taken against them. (TP)

PNTL Receives Bomb Disposal Training

A small unit of PNTL is currently receiving bomb disposal training as provided by Japanese experts. "Before, we put our faith in the International Force for East Timor, but they are no longer here and we have to put our trust on PNTL technicians in this small unit and who are currently receiving training from the Japanese on bombs and explosives," Minister of Interior, Rogirio Lobato told the media on Saturday following the swearing-in of Liquiga Inspectors Olivio and Raimundu as Police commanders in that district on Saturday. (DT)

Tilman: Timor-Leste Facilities the Success of UN

It is reported that MP Manuel Tilman of KOTA party told the media last Friday that Timor-Leste achieved its success in the democratization process due to the culture of the Timorese people and not because of Prime Minister Alkatiri, adding that with such a moral culture of moral, Timor-Leste has facilitated the United Nations' success in this country, Timor Post reported. The Timorese, he added, should properly use the facilities provided by the international community through the UN, otherwise when the UN mission is over, the country will be in jeopardy. (Timor Post)

Editorial: Timor-Leste Successful in Settling Conflict

The Saturday edition (15 October) of Timor Post editorial quoted SRSG Sukehiro Hasewaga as saying that Timor-Leste, compared to other countries in the world, is the most successful country in settling conflict. With such success, SRSG said, it shows that Timor-Leste will carry out the democratization process well in years to come. The success that Timor-Leste has achieved also shows to the world that Timor-Leste can become an example of democracy to other countries that have not attained democracy. The assessment of Hasegawa was based on the fact that: firstly, the people of Timor-Leste indeed have the political maturity, secondly, the Government that is now in power runs the administration well, and thirdly, the Government has the major confidence and trust from the people; this is due to the fact that whenever there is any conflict, the Government tries to settle it well by not dragging into a conflict which threatens the stability of Timor-Leste. The editorial noted that the success that has been achieved should be well reflected by all Timorese in how to carry out the process further in times to come. And the key element for all of this is upholding national unity. (Timor Post)

TVTL News Monitoring, 14 October 2005

PNTL members suspended: TVTL reported on Friday that three members of PNTL were suspended in the Sub-District of Laleia, Manatuto District, for committing violence. The three had reportedly beaten a community member in the Sub-District.

Camera Confiscation: It was also reported that the action of confiscating journalist's camera by an International staff at the Court of Appeal was regarded as a crime against the code of ethics of Journalism. This incident, the TV station said, saddened the Timorese Association of Journalists.

Vicaris General of Dili: Meanwhile, the Catholic Vicaris General of the Dili Diocese was reported as saying that he was shocked with the faith of the people of Timor-Leste who, during the occupation era were very close to the church but leaving the church after independence.

Solidarity with Burmesse: The Timor-Leste Forum in Solidarity with the people of Burma was reported to have conducted a peaceful protest in front of the Korean Embassy in Dili. Dictionary Donations: In another news, TVTL reported that the government of Portugal, through its Embassy in Dili has donated some forty Judicial Dictionaries in Portuguesse language to the Timor-Leste Judicial Training Centre, which were officially received by Timor-Leste's Justice Minister.

October 20, 2005

TNI Must Be Committed At The Borders: Martins

It is reported that PNTL Commander Paulo Martins has told the media that PNTL officers stationed in the border of Oecussi enclave have appealed to the population in the area not to retaliate to attacks by their neighbour to avoid further conflicts as PNTL and TNI have commenced firm discussions which will proceed the following day. Martins asked the people of Oecussi to maintain calm. He added that if anyone wishes to visit their relatives in Indonesia or visa-versa that they must use formal procedures to avoid arrests. He added that although people from neighbouring Indonesia had entered TL territory and reportedly caused suffering to the population along the border the situation was now under control.

The PNTL Commander reportedly noted that the incident of 13 September had left people across the border not accepting the attitude of some of the members of Oecussi population. "I told TNI during the meeting on 11 October that, the position of TNI and PNTL is to maintain security for the population in the two areas. TNI and PNTL should not go against each other, so that if there are any problems, these two authorities are able to resolve the issues rather than other institutions," Paulo Martins reportedly said. He added that although the situation in the border remains calm, at times groups such as former militias are trying to aggravate the situation.

In a separate article, Diario Tempo quoted the Secretary-General of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Nelson Santos who reportedly said that the incidents in some areas of the enclave are due to a lack of information from the Indonesian side, with the people of Oecussi suffering.

Santos said the Indonesian villagers living along the border have not recognised the demarcation line which has been authorised adding, "although we are neighbouring countries we must go and see, what we can resolve. This week from the border team and from our leaders many have travelled to Oecussi to find out whether the situation from our side can be controlled but from their side, why can't they control it". He added that to avoid an escalation of the problem, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation together with the team in charge of the border and some members of the international community are travelling to the border to view the overall situation. (DT)

PM: Regional Secretaries Will Not Be Responsible for Planning

Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri on Tuesday handed responsibility to Virgilio Smith, the Secretary of State for Region II for Manatuto, Ainaro and Same.

Before formally handing over responsibility, the Prime Minister explained that the role of the Regional Secretary of State is not to conduct planning, but to coordinate with the central government regarding the implementation of national programmes at the district level. He emphasised that the role of the Regional Secretaries of State is separate to that of the District and Subdistrict Administrators, because they submit their work reports to the Ministry of State Administration, whereas the Regional Secretaries of State will be submitting their reports to the Prime Minister himself. Commenting on his new position, Smith said that he will work together with the people of Region II in overcoming the difficulties that they confront every day. The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to explain to the thousands of local people present at the handover ceremony about the recent establishment of a new Cabinet. (TP)

Permanent Working Group discusses abortion

In their fourth meeting on Tuesday, members of the Permanent Working Group discussed the issue of abortion in this country. The Head of the Government delegation to the working group, set up as a result of an agreement signed between the Government and the Church last May, explained to journalists that during the meeting three speakers gave their opinion from the perspectives of justice, health and religion. "The objective is to get a deeper understanding about this subject", said Minister Antoninho Bianco. He said that in this meeting the group came to the conclusion that as abortion is a sensitive issue, they would still need to obtain input from other groups in society such as women's groups, and that they would soon be meeting with a group of approximately 20 women's groups to discuss the issue. (TP)

Teacher suspended on sexual abuse charges

A teacher with the initials JC, accused of sexually abusing primary school students in Grades 5 and 6 at Aiturilaran Primary School, has been suspended by the Ministry of Education. According to the Director of Administration and Finance Antoninho Pires, the teacher has been suspended for a period of 120 days beginning 14 October, for investigation purposes.

He said that depending on the court decision, the Ministry of Education may also apply sanctions to JC according to the statute of public functions in place in Timor-Leste. Asked whether JC could be fired for his behaviour, Pires responded that this depends on the extent of the criminal charges against him. According to Pires, the incident occurred some time ago, in 2004/5, however the issue has only just become known to the public. (TP)

Saldanha: Brief training period of PNTL

In order to resolve the problem of police violence in Timor- Leste, there is a need to establish an organization that monitors police behaviour.

According to political and economic analyst Joao Mariano Saldanha, when asked his opinion on the continual incidents of police violence and in particular the recent Laleia incident, Saldanha said that we must also consider the difficulties that the police themselves face, possibly due to the very short training period that they undergo. He said that this limited physical and mental training influences their responses when faced with challenges in the community. He said that an evaluation needs to be conducted on the effectiveness of the human rights training that the police receive, and that along with the many special police units that now exist, it would be useful to have a law and order unit among them, that could consider police violations when they occur. He said that this issue is also related to the courts, where the work of judges is sometimes limited due to a lack of facilities, and even a small salary, which may cause them to feel a lack of enthusiasm to do their job well.

Saldanha explained that there is also the problem of the impact of a large number of police commanders, ministers, vice-ministers and others, with confusion as to who is responsible for police misconduct, and that sometimes the police behave in a manner that is of a political nature rather than in the interests of maintaining law and order. He added that it is important for the police to maintain discipline, neutrality, and support for the people, and for this reason there is a need for a special police unit to review police violations. He recognised that the police have done a good job so far in maintaining law and order, in particular during the recent large Church demonstration against the government. However in other cases the police have been accused of violence. (TP)

Horta Strong Candidate for UN Secretary-General

Nobel Peace Prize winner Jose Ramos-Horta admitted to be a candidate for the post of UN Secretary-General and said that "the previous Secretaries-General have done a modest job," suggesting that he could do better. Ramos-Horta, who is a clear supporter of Washington, contends that a Secretary-General must always be in harmony with the five permanent members of the Security Council, and he criticised Kofi Annan for a too ambitious agenda that he was unable to achieve. (Diario de Notmcias, Lisbon)

October 21, 2005

Horta-Hasegawa visit Passabe

It is reported that the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, accompanied by SRSG Sukehiro Hasegawa and members of the Timor-Leste diplomatic corps, on Thursday visited the enclave of Oecussi. The objective of the informal visit was to study the situation along the border between Oecussi and West Timor. Several incidents occurred in the border area last month, where Indonesians illegally entered Timor-Leste territory and destroyed some farming land and plantations in the area. Horta said that these incidents are a concern for Timor-Leste, but that it is important that Timorese do not dramatize the situation and make out that it is worse than it is. He said that he does not know if the claims he has been hearing are fact or just rumour, including the allegation that ex-militia are behind the infiltrations, and that the TNI are not doing what they should be to prevent the infiltrations. He reiterated that he has great confidence in the Indonesian government, particularly under the leadership of Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in resolving these small issues with the Timor-Leste government, in order that further incidents do not occur. (TP)

Ramos-Horta: Passabe Incidents Do not Damage Relations between Timor-Leste and Indonesia

It is reported that Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Josi Ramos-Horta stressed on Thursday in a meeting held with the Passabe residents, in Passabe of Oecusse District that the recent brutal attack incidents carried out by West Timorese (Indonesia) towards the local residents would not damage the good relations between Timor-Leste and Indonesia, STL reported. "I appeal to the Timorese residents, specially the Passabe ones not to be surprised and afraid because it was not a big problem. We should not think the small ripple in Passabe has damaged our relations with Indonesia. Our relations continue to be good.

President Xanana Gusmco, Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri and I myself really trust the leadership of President of Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono," Ramos-Horta said.

Ramos-Horta was in Passabe to closely assess the attack incidents along with SRSG Sukehiro Hasegawa, DSRSG Anis Bajwa and British, Brazilian and Portuguese Ambassadors, among others. For the sake of stability and security in the area, the Foreign Minister requested the local leaders, BPU officers, and the Secretary State for Oecusse Region to settle the matters in a peaceful manner, adding that there was no need to be tempted by any provocations aimed at damaging the good relations between the two countries. (STL) Jose Reis comments on Bucoli case

It is reported that Coordinating Secretary of State for Region I Jose Maria dos Reis has fiercely denied the accusation from the opposition that he organized the recent flag lowering and attack on the UNDERTIM headquarters in Bucoli, Baucau. Speaking to journalists on Thursday, Reis confirmed that the work he does is related to the districts of Baucau, Lospalos and Viqueque, but that he would not engage in any such action. He reiterated previous comments from others that if a political party intends to open an office in a certain area, they should first introduce themselves to the local population and the relevant village chiefs, otherwise this kind of thing may occur. He reportedly said that UNDERTIM's actions in this case could be seen as a kind of provocation, as it has set up an office in an area which is not one of their strongholds, something that no other parties have done because they respect and understand democracy. (TP)

HIV/AIDS a silent enemy & 24 people HIV positive

First Commander of F-FDTL 2nd Battalion Lieutenant Colonel Aluc Descark, has expressed his opinion on the impact of HIV-AIDS on the armed forces, during a seminar with the theme 'The struggle against HIV among members of the F-FDTL and PNTL 2004-5, a revision of activities of one year' held at the Tourismo Hotel. According to Descark, HIV/AIDS is a silent enemy, difficult to kill. In order to overcome the threat, we need to be armed with a range of tactics. 50 F-FDTL and PNTL participated in the workshop which was organized by Fundasaun Timor Hari with support from USAID and Family Health International. According to the Director of the Foundation Agie Belo Ximenes, the objective of the workshop is to make new recommendations for the further prevention of HIV/AIDS in the coming year.

Speaking at the workshop, Vice-Minister of Health Luis Lobato said that according to the official data, there are 24 HIV positive people in Timor-Leste at the current time. He commended the workshop, as in his opinion it will contribute to the involvement of the two security institutions in the fight against HIV/AIDS. (TP)

Prosecutor returns journalist's camera; some film lost

It is reported that Tome Xavier, lawyer for journalist Jose Belo whose camera was allegedly confiscated from him when covering the eviction case of the house of Guy Campos, Mandarin, told reporters that the journalist's camera has been returned but that the cassette is being held as evidence in the case, as some of the film on the camera has been lost.

Coordinator of the International Prosecutors, Joao Carreira, said that even though Belo has received his camera back, the case is still under investigation. He said that if the investigation determines that there is enough data for a case, the international staff member concerned will need to appear in court to answer for her actions. Vice-President of the Timor-Leste Journalists Association (AJTL) Aderito Hugo da Costa told journalists that he is pleased that there has been a response from the Prosecution. He said that it is important that this case be cleared up, so that it does not create a bad precedent for future actions of international staff in Timor-Leste.

President of the Journalist Syndicate of Timor-Leste Otelio Ote yesterday also appealed to all institutions in this country to respect press freedom, and requested that the same not occur again. (TP, STL) Mini Bus Drivers Strike in Ermera

STL reported that the strike by mini bus drivers did not only happen in Dili following the increase of the price of fuel in Indonesia in early October which had an direct impact on Timor- Leste. Hundreds of mini bus drivers also went on strike in Ermera District from 7 until 9 October.

The strike had caused Ermera passengers to be unable to travel to Dili and also those from sub-districts who came to Gleno and Ermera markets could not travel back home.

The leader of the strike, Lucas da Costa stated that he and his fellow drivers carried out the action as a way to demand for an increase of the mini bus fare. "If we [manage] to increase the fare, the passengers will be aware of it, and there is no need for them to protest against it.", he said. After the strike, all mini bus drivers increased their fares. (STL)

October 22-24, 2005

Alkatiri: Dismantle Truth and Friendship Commission

Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri stated last Saturday that it is better to dismantle the Truth and Friendship Commission if those who do not want the existence of the Commission, always try to stage provocations aimed at destroying the friendship between Timor-Leste and Indonesia. In response to the report by The Australian that reported that Dili threatened Jakarta to withdraw from the Commission following alleged border tensions, Alkatiri said that Dili did not do make such a threat but only suggested that if the provocations on the border continued, it was better to dismantle the Commission. (STL)

Horta: No threat to withdraw from CTF

It is reported that Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Jose Ramos Horta has denied recent news reports published in 'The Australian' that Dili has threatened Jakarta to withdraw from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission if Indonesia fails to rectify the border situation. "I have never made such threats", said Horta. "If there is a problem I always speak to the Indonesian authorities, and I do not recognize that report", he said. Speaking to journalists at the government palace on Friday, Horta affirmed that the relationship between the governments of Timor- Leste and Indonesia is very good, and that the two governments are very pleased with the CTF process. He added that the report in question came from SRSG Hasegawa and that as far as he knows the report is confidential and therefore not something that he has the liberty to comment on. (TP)

Council of Ministers approve penal code

The Council of Ministers reportedly approved the Penal Code last Thursday. Speaking to journalists on Friday, Secretary of State for the Council of Ministers Gregorio de Sousa was reported to have said that the Penal Code contains the concepts of rights, liberties and guarantees as enshrined in the Timor-Leste Constitution. He said that it reinforces the concept of rights of the accused, preventive detention, and maximum periods of imprisonment. (TP)

Bianco: It is a Crime To Legalise Prostitution

Speaking to the press last Thursday, Minister of the Presidency for the Council of Ministers, Antoninho Bianco was quoted as saying that the Government has no intention to legalize prostitution because it is considered a crime. According to Bianco, aside from the Church's views on the prostitution as an immoral practice, the new Penal Code of Timor-Leste, [which will soon enter into force], considers such activity as a crime.

From the health aspect, Bianco also said, prostitution also can have a negative impact on people's health. Bianco informed the media that to tackle the matter, there is a need to have the involvement of all components of society since such activity has been carried out secretly so far. Bianco also stressed that the matter has been discussed at the Permanent Working Group comprising Government representatives and representatives from all religious institutions, in which he acted as President. (TP)

Ximenes: "Not true that I will nominate myself as SG of Fretilin"

Minister of Development Abel Ximenes has reportedly denied the rumour that he will nominate himself as Fretilin Secretary General at the 2006 Fretilin National Congress. Speaking to journalists on Friday after meeting with Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri, Ximenes said that he has no plans, nor the ambition to carry such an important role. He acknowledges that he is not a strong candidate, and that what he really hopes for is that his party Fretilin will be able to become a strong and united party in Timor-Leste. (TP)

Thai ship illegally enters TL waters

It is reported that Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing Estanislau da Silva met with Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri on Friday to discuss the issue of the Thai fishing boat that illegally entered Timor-Leste's port some weeks ago. According to Minister da Silva, the boat was carrying incomplete documents, but that the government has spoken to the relevant parties to remind them that they must arrive with complete documents when they enter Timor-Leste waters. (TP)

October 25, 2005

Alkatiri meets Xanana, Lu-Olo to discuss border situation

It is reported that, a little concerned with the border situation, Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri yesterday met with President Xanana Gusmao and President of the National Parliament Francisco Guterres 'Lu-Olo' to discuss the issue before leaving on an official visit to Cape Verde.

Alkatiri is reported to have said that he requested the meeting as he feels it is important that all government elements are kept up to date with the situation. Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Alkatiri reportedly explained that he is particularly concerned with the situation at Motaain, where the local population on the Indonesian side of the border have closed off access to the mutually shared river to the population on the Timor-Leste side of the border. He said that as this is a shared border, this is not a fair thing to do. Alkatiri said that the government will be taking a new approach to this matter, whereby all Ambassadors as well as the United Nations will be constantly updated on the situation. He asked the people not to become alarmed or panicked by the situation.

However he said that as Timor-Leste is a sovereign nation it must take appropriate action, as cases of border violations must always be taken seriously.

Asked whether it may be necessary to request the United Nations to deal with the border situation if it becomes prolonged, Alkatiri is reported to have replied that the UNis very expensive, and thus the government has not considered such a measure. He alluded to the possibility that the current tense border situation could affect the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. (TP, DT)

Lobato and Martins: Oecussi situation under control

It is reported that Minister of Interior and PNTL General Commander Paulo Martins have assured the people of Dili that the current border situation in Passabe, Oecussi, is under control, and peaceful. After meeting with the President and other officials on Monday, Lobato and Martins told journalists that the people of Dili have been receiving worrying information regarding attacks and arson on border posts in the border areas, and therefore they are keen to allay the fears of the capital city population, that everything is under control. Lobato said that the PNTL will recruit more police this coming January, with the intention of increasing security along the border, but that the new recruits will also be used for the marine and immigration units. When asked whether the border problems will require an increase in F-FDTL personnel, the Minister of Interior said that this is a political decision in the hands of the government. The government position has always been that the border is a non- militarized border, and therefore it must be patrolled by police and not military. (TP, STL)

Martins comments on Bidau shooting incident

It is reported that the population of Bidau Mota Klaran, Dili, were panicked on Saturday evening when faced with alleged violent police behaviour, where the police fired shots and threatened the local population. The incident was related to a conflict between two groups of young men, which resulted in the police coming to the area, where they fired shots and screamed at the local population. The police action resulted in seven people injured and five arrested, who are currently being detained at Dili District police station. It is reported that some of the victims still have bullets lodged in their bodies. Responding to the incident, PNTL General Commander Paulo Martins said that when the Police Task Force went in to calm the situation, the local population began throwing rocks at the police. He said that no members of the Dili District Police fired shots, and therefore they are currently checking with the Rapid Intervention Unit (UIR) to find out which police officers were involved with the alleged shooting.

It is reported that a member of the local population and a victim of the attack, Maria Lucia, said that the Indonesian police are better than Timorese police, as Indonesian police would ask permission before entering someone's house, whereas Timorese police barge into peoples' houses without any ethics, like thieves. She said that the local population are still traumatized by the brutal police action, and that the professionalism of the police is in question, as the police did not arrest those people who were causing trouble, but instead engaged in alleged brutality and threats. (TP, STL)

Police Taking Measures to Arrest Attacker of US Citizen: Lobato

It is reported that Minister of Interior Rogerio Lobato said that PNTL is taking all measures to arrest the person responsible in attacking a US citizen called Nadine Heukman (42) in Taibessi on Sunday. Lobato said that he personally went to Dili National Hospital to see the victim but she was having an X-Ray at the time. He stressed that the case is very serious because there are some people who are trying to create instability and this gives a bad image which may stop visitors coming to Timor-Leste. (Diario)

PNTL Detained Six Indonesians

It is reported that PNTL officers have detained six Indonesian citizens for allegedly entering Timor-Leste illegally, reported Diario newspapers on Tuesday. According to the Immigration Coordinator for Oecussi Border, Oracio de Sousa, the six are from Sulawesi on the way to the island of Flores but mistakenly entered Oecussi area. De Sousa said the problem has been brought to the attention of the Indonesian Ambassador in Timor-Leste but in the meantime they would have to pay for their visas as well as a fine according to Timor-Leste constitution article 118. He added that the boat was carrying around 1400 kg of rice, which the immigration has the right to detain if the fine is not paid. (Diaro)

Suspect Faces Imprisonment For Purchase of Weapons at Border It is reported that International Judge Sandra Silvestre currently working at Oecusse District Court told the media last Friday that a government security guard with the initials MA could face 20 years imprisonment [if found guilty] of his alleged involvement in meetings with Indonesian military members to purchase illegal weapons in Indonesia, and involvement in alleged plans to launch attacks against communities in Passabe and Oesilo Sub-districts of Oecusse District, Diario reported. Judge Silvestre also reportedly informed the media that during the recent attacks in the Oecusse border area, MA did not meet local community members or PNTL BPU officers to assist in their assessment of the situation which, it is reported, indicated that he denied Timor-Leste to be a sovereign country.

It was reported that in June 2005, MA along with a friend called Anuco allegedly met with former militia commander Laurentino Soares aka Moko with the aim of purchasing weapons in Indonesia to be allegedly smuggled into Timor-Leste, and also allegedly attempted to liaise with Indonesian Police to provide information on the border situation. (Diario).

October 26, 2005

Witoelar: TL must not lose hope in the UN

It is reported that Special United Nations Millennium Development Goals Ambassador for the Asia Pacific Region Erna Witoelar told the audience gathered at the Lecidere Peace Park for the UN day celebrations that Timor-Leste should not lose hope in the United Nations despite its bureaucratic structure, as it has brought friendship to the entire world, including Timor-Leste. She added that the UN's current objective in Timor-Leste is to assist this nation in its future development.

The Ambassador that travels the Asia-Pacific region promoting the Millennium Development Goals in her speech guaranteed that the UN would not forget Timor-Leste. She explained that the MDG's are commitments from country governments not to the United Nations but to the people of those nations themselves. She expressed her optimism that Timor-Leste will be able to achieve their part in implementing the MDG's. The anniversary celebrations were attended by UNOTIL SRSG Hasegawa, President Xanana Gusmao, and a number of government ministers. (TP)

Gusmco to meet Indonesian Ambassador on Border Incidents

Timor Post reported that President Xanana Gusmco requested Indonesian Ambassador Ahmed Bey Sofwan on Monday for a meeting in order to find solutions for the recent border incidents. Speaking to the media after the meeting, Ambassador Sofwan stated that aside from discussing the solutions for the matter with President Gusmco, he also confirmed the President's upcoming visit to Indonesia on 4 November. When responding to the recent border incidents caused by the fact that there is a lack of seriousness from the Indonesian Government to tackle the matter and the lack of awareness for Indonesian people, especially on the agreement of border demarcations, Ambassador Sofwan said that it is because the Indonesian residents who are in border areas are former Timorese citizens.

Moreover, he said, if there is no seriousness from the part of Indonesian Government in solving the matter, he would have probably left Timor-Leste.

Ambassador Sofwan further suggested that it would be better for the media to find out more information about the incidents with PNTL's Border Patrol Unit rather than through him. (TP)

West Timorese Residents Blocked River Flowing to Passabe

It is reported that during the Parliament plenary session yesterday, MP Antonio Lelan, quoting the information he recently received from the Secretary of State for Oecusse Region Albano Salem, stated that following the Passabe incidents on 15 October, West Timorese residents living near the border, have been attempting to block the river in order not to flow to Passabe, STL reported. If the attempt is successful, Lelan reportedly said, a number of farm lands in the Passabe area cannot be cultivated any longer, adding that it is the only river used by the local residents for irrigation. Moreover, he is reported to have said that based on the information he obtained from Oecusse, the recent attacks were not only carried out by the civilian population but also by a number of TNI members, aimed at disrupting the security situation in the border. MP Lelan urged the Government to request Jakarta for clarification on the involvement of TNI members or the former militia members in the recent attacks. "In order not to destroy the relations between the countries, it is necessary for Timor-Leste to urge Jakarta to arrest those who were involved in the attacks, and bring them to justice," he added. (STL)

Lu Olo asks Cardoso and Faria to resign

It is reported that President of the National Parliament Francisco Guterres 'Lu-Olo' has asked Antonio Cardoso and Vicente Faria to resign from their posts in the parliamentary commissions if they continue to suffer from their illnesses. He said that they would remain in their positions as members of parliament, but that they should resign from their commission posts so that someone else may take over. Head of the Fretilin bench in the Parliament Francisco Branco said that the two MP's concerned need to clarify their position, as if they are no longer ill, they can continue in their current positions as both President of the Commissions and Members of Parliament. (TP)

PSD contests prostitution

Member of the National Parliament from the PSD bench Joao Gongalves is reported to have raised the issue of prostitution in Parliament's plenary session on Tuesday. Speaking to STL, Gongalves congratulated the media for their coverage of the issue, as he said that this is a very important moral issue, one which the government has not yet developed an effective strategy for. (STL) 20% drop in Economic Growth

It is reported that the impact of the increase in oil prices is affecting Timor-Leste, influencing the national economic situation, with a 20% drop in economic growth. There has been a decrease in market transactions, and this is having an effect on imports and exports. Speaking from his office on Tuesday, President of Timor-Leste's Chamber of Commerce Ricardo Nheu told journalists that there has been a decrease in current imports, as there has been a reduction in consumer purchasing power. He explained that this also has an impact on the workforce, with an increase in the unemployment rate as the economy slows down. Nheu asserted that in his opinion the relevant parties need to concentrate on some strategies to deal with this situation, so that it does not become even worse. He said that this may involve measures such as considering ways of limiting the amount of money that leaves the country and increasing the salaries of civil servants as a means of increasing their purchasing power. He emphasized the importance of the investment law and the possibility of setting up industry in Timor-Leste. (TP)

River Destroys 300 Hectares of Rice Paddies

It is reported that a total of 300 hectares of rice paddies in three sub-villages of Manatuto District have been destroyed by the river. MP Lucio Margal (PD) raised this problem during Tuesday's plenary session in the National Parliament. Margal said the population has requested the Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Infrastructure to go and see it themselves as the people in that area are living in a crisis situation. He said the children in those sub-villages cannot attend school during the wet season as it is impossible to cross the river to attend school and due to this problem many have failed in their final year exams. He also informed that the three health clinics in those areas are not functioning.

According to the Timor Post, the problem has been dragging on since 2003. (TP)

MP Will Present Facts to the PNTL Commander (TP)

It is reported that the behaviour of a PNTL officer with the initials LA and his brother with initial A that took a pistol or a gun to fire as a threat to the population of Hadomi Bidau Mota klaran villge last Saturday night have left them traumatized. MP Cipriana Pereira (Fretilin) reportedly raised the issue during Tuesday's Parliamentary plenary. Pereira compared the behaviour of the police on Saturday as that of the tragedy of 12 November 1991 in which many youths died. She said she will present proof to PNTL Commander Paulo Martins to take proper measures against those PNTL officers. According to Cipriana Pereira, the problem started on 21 October between two youths, who threatened each other with sharp weapons.

She alleged that the brother of the police officer with the initials LA also become involved in the problem and rather than help solve the problem the police officer called all his police friends and went to allegedly attack the community of village Hadome Bidau Mota Klaran. 5 youths who are currently in detention in Dili police station were arrested during that incident.

The MP alleged that the police officer LA gave his police uniform and pistol to his brother who started shooting in different directions leaving the community of that area traumatized. Both, LA and his brother have also accused that community of being a base for martial arts groups, militias and unsavoury people from the eastern part of the country. She reportedly said that members of that community have the cartridge used by the police officer LA which she would like to show to PNTL commander Paulo Martins.

Cipriana Pereira asked the President of the Parliament to take measures to change the attitude of some members of the police before further damage is done to the police institution. (TP)

October 27, 2005

Ambassador Witoelar: TL progresses with sound principles

It is reported that the United Nations Ambassador for the Promotion of the Millennium Development Goals in the Asia-Pacific region, Erna Witoelar, on Wednesday met with President Xanana Gusmco to discuss general development issues as well as Timor- Leste-Indonesia bilateral relations. "As an Indonesian myself, I know that the new democratic Indonesia very much respects Timor- Leste as an independent country, and there is still much development cooperation that can be done", said Witoelar, accompanied by SRSG Hasegawa. She said that she felt very proud and moved to witness Timor-Leste under the leadership of President Gusmco, and she considers that the country is progressing well with some very sound principles.

She praised the President's willingness to convey both his positive and negative opinions of the United Nations. (TP)

CTF Commissioners working as volunteers

It is reported that although the members of the Truth and Friendship Commission (CTF) have been working for some time now, they have not yet received a salary, because the two concerned countries have not yet approved the joint budget. "The proposed budget is still being studied", said CTF President Dionisio Babo, speaking to journalists from his office in Balide on Tuesday. He said that in the interim, the Commissioners have been pooling their money to allow the work of the Commission to go ahead.

Speaking about other difficulties that the Commissioners have experienced apart from the funding problem, Babo said that the Commissioners often have different perspectives on political and ideological issues, and their standpoint on what occurred in 1999, and therefore they have been engaging in a lot of discussion. (TP)

97% of children participate in national immunization

It is reported that 97% of Timorese children participated in the National Polio Immunization Campaign held in August and September.

According to Minister of Health Dr. Rui de Araujo, speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, the results from the first and second rounds of the immunization campaign showed that over 172 000 or 97% of children were immunized.

The Minister related a breakdown of the results per district, and confirmed that such a high overall percentage is enough to dramatically reduce the risk of a polio outbreak in Timor-Leste. However he warned that immunization does not 100% guarantee that the virus will not affect anyone, and for this reason it is important to carry out routine vaccinations of children born from August onward. (TP)

People's Republic to send rice and oil to TL

It is reported that the People's Republic of China has confirmed that in the next couple of months it will assist the Timor-Leste government with a donation of 4000 tons of rice and 500 tons of cooking oil, to be distributed to those communities suffering from a lack of food.

Minister of Labour and Community Reinsertion Arsenio Bano told TP on Tuesday that his Ministry has identified 139 villages to receive the assistance and that the majority of these villages are coastal villages. He said that the Ministry is still considering on how best to distribute the assistance. He said that Oecussi will not be receiving any of the assistance as Oxfam Australia and WFP are already assisting Oecussi in this respect. (TP)

Parliament Soon To Set Up Investigation Team to Assess Bidau Mota Klaran Case

Speaking to the press on Wednesday, President of National Parliament's Commission B in charge of Security and Foreign Affairs Faustino da Costa was reported as saying that his Commission would soon set up an investigation team in order to investigate the recent case of fighting which occurred in Bidau Mota Klaran village of Dili District last Saturday, involving a PNTL officer allegedly firing a gun as a threat to the local population, which reportedly left them traumatized. " We would like to find out the case directly from the victims even though PNTL had stated that the incident took place because there was an attack towards PNTL officer launched by the local population. We would like to know the reason why the officer was attacked," Da Costa added. Da Costa further stated that some of the members of Commission B even demanded both PNTL General Commander Paulo Fatima Martins and Minister of Interior Rogerio Tiago Lobato come to the Parliament in order to explain the situation. (STL)

Lieutenant Cornel Gomes Becomes Chief of Military Advisers for President Gusmco STL reported that F-FDTL's Lieutenant Colonel Donaciano Gomes a.k.a Pedro Klamar Fuik was sworn-in on Wednesday by President Xanana Gusmco as the President's Chief of Military Advisers. Speaking after the swear-in ceremony, President Gusm'o stated that he believes Lt. Col. Cornel Gomes would [properly] carry out his duty as the Chief of Military Advisers in accordance with the mandate of the Constitution. "I know that the task [as Chief of Military Advisers] is a heavy one since we have just scratched everything from zero, and we are not quite sure yet of what we can and cannot do in achieving what we aspire," President Gusmco added.

In his speech, Lieutenant Colonel Gomes who has acted as the Head of F-FDTL's Training Centre in Metinaro since 2003, said that it was an honour for him to be in the new post, adding that this would make him ready to respond to concerns of his colleagues in F-FDTL in regards to military matters. (STL).

October 28, 2005

CAVR completes mandate

It is reported that the Truth, Reception and Reconciliation Commission (CAVR), which began its work in 2002 to collect data and promote reconciliation between Timorese, is due to complete its mandate at the end of October. President of the Commission Aniceto Guterres speaking at a press conference on Thursday said that on 31 October CAVR will present its 2,000 page report to President Xanana Gusmao in a handover ceremony to be held in Lahane. According to Guterres, the President will then present the report to the National Parliament, possibly on 28 November. (STL)

Xanana: Three pillars guarantee democracy

It is reported that President Xanana Gusmao has said that there are three pillars that guarantee democracy in Timor-Leste. These are justice, police and the armed forces. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony for the Chief Presidential Military Advisor Lieutenant Colonel Donaciano Gomes alias Pedro Klamar Fuik at the Presidential Palace on Wednesday, he said that if these three pillars function properly as enshrined in the Timor-Leste Constitution, the people will live peacefully, with mutual respect. (TP)

Hasegawa counters The Australian report

It is reported that SRSG Hasegawa has countered suggestions that Dili was threatening Jakarta with withdrawing from the Truth and Friendship Commission process. When asked for his clarification on the matter on Thursday, Hasegawa reportedly told journalists that to his knowledge Timor-Leste has a strong commitment to make the TFC process a success. He reportedly said that he also has great hope that the process will be a success and therefore as Head of UNOTIL he does not have any expectation that Timor-Leste withdraw from the process. He confirmed that Indonesia has agreed to work more closely with PNTL along the border to improve communication between the two sides, as well as to make efforts to ensure that Indonesian citizens do not enter Passabe. (TP)

PNTL Commander prepared to answer in Parliament

It is reported that PNTL General Commander Paulo de Fatima Martins has said that he is prepared to appear in the National Parliament to answer questions related to the shooting incident at Bidau Mota Klaran last week.

Speaking to journalists yesterday related to the comments of Parliamentary Commission B that they want the Minister of Interior to answer for the incident, Martins said that if the Minister appears in Parliament, then he is also prepared to appear. He said that he is also prepared if the Commission would like to carry out an investigation on the case.

President of Commission B for Defence and Security Faustino da Costa said that the Parliament has already formed a small investigation team to go to the site of the incident to hear the victim's complaints, and to then write a report to be presented to the President of the National Parliament. He said that the team will be made up of five MP's, including himself. (TP)

Parliament Supports the Increase of Police on Border

It is reported that MP Alexandre Corte Real of Timorese Democratic Union (UDT) party bench stated yesterday that he supported the recent statement of Minister of Interior Rogerio Tiago Lobato that there was a need to increase security agents in the border area. "The statement of Minister Lobato shows that our policy of security and defence related to the border is not a way to create problems." Corte Real said. Moreover, Corte Real affirmed that in order to maintain good security in the border, there is a need to provide BPU officers with good and modern equipment. (STL)

Father Gusmco: Government Has No Right to Condemn Prostitution

Speaking to the press on Thursday in relation to the prostitution issue, Director of Baucau Diocese Commission of Justice and Peace, Father Martinho Gusmco reportedly stated that it is the Court and not the Government that has the authority to say that prostitution is a crime since Government has no right to condemn it. Father Gusmco said that it is not right when Government morally condemns prostitution since the Government has not been able yet to reach that stage. This, he said, is due to the fact that the Ministry of Education itself has not managed to include sex education as part of the teaching curriculum. From the traditional and religious views of Timor-Leste, Father Gusmco argued that there has not been any support in favor of legalising the prostitution. (STL)

October 29-31, 2005

Xanana: Women vulnerable in time of conflict

President Xanana Gusmao has acknowledged the role of women in conflict, saying that at times of war women are particularly vulnerable. The President was speaking at the launch of the book "Women and Conflict" and a number of other publications produced by the Truth, Reception and Reconciliation Commission (CAVR) at an exhibition held at the CAVR office in Balide on Saturday. He said that he very much appreciated the content of the publications, which put forward the message of the victims, as well as an appeal to political parties and the government. As such, he also used the opportunity to request that students and universities to purchase the CAVR publications, in order to remind them of the violence that occurred during the period of conflict. (TP)

No need for Passabe case to go to UN & CAVR mission ends

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Negotiations Jose Ramos Horta has said that the assault case which occurred last week in Passabe, Oecussi, does not need to be taken to the UN Security Council. Speaking after the CAVR exhibition held on Saturday, Horta said that this case does not represent a big problem. He said that the Timor-Leste government is discussing the matter privately and confidentially with Indonesia, and that to take such a case to the Security Council would be considered frivolous.

Speaking on a separate matter, Minister Horta said that the results of the CAVR mission must be explained to the people now that the process is at an end. He said that this could possibly done via conferences or workshops throughout Timor-Leste, and that Timor-Leste's experience in this may also be taken to places such as Palestine, Kosovo, and Ireland. (TP)

MSA-UNDP sign SIMP accord

The Minister of State Administration Ana Pessoa and UNDP Chief Sukehiro Hasegawa on Friday signed an accord for the People Management Information Systems Project (SIMP), the objective of which is to continue the strengthening of the management of the Timor-Leste civil administration, and to increase the motivation, discipline and capacity of civil servants.

At the signing the Minister announced her Ministry's contribution of US $300 000 to the project, which will also be contributed to by the Government of Ireland in the amount of project will be under the direction of the National Directorate for Public Administration.

Speaking to journalists at the signing, UNDP Chief Dr. Hasegawa said that he is very pleased with UNDP's involvement in the project, in order to improve the public administration in Timor- Leste. He also thanked the Government of Ireland for their contribution. (TP)

Xanana makes Cipinang film

President Xanana Gusmao will travel to Indonesia this coming Friday to make a film about his imprisonment in Cipinang Prison in Jakarta, as well as to celebrate the end of the Muslim fasting month with Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. Speaking to journalists after meeting with President Gusmao last Friday, Indonesian Ambassador to Timor-Leste Ahmad Bein Sofwan said that as the Indonesian President has become a close friend of President Gusmao, it is fitting that the Timor-Leste President pay him a visit on this day of celebration. He explained that the President himself had the idea to make a film about his time in Cipinang Prison, and that the Indonesian government supports the idea, as President Gusmao has provided great support to the reconciliation process. He said that it is important that the two countries accept past mistakes, and use them as lessons for the future. (TP, DT)

Hasegawa: Mission of Experts on Election to arrive in November

Speaking to the media after his meeting with President Xanana Gusmco last Friday, SRSG Sukehiro Hasegawa reportedly stated that a UN mission of experts on elections -- the Needs Assessment Mission (NAM) would arrive in Timor-Leste in November to assess the preparation process for 2007 general elections. The deployment of NAM to Timor-Leste, Hasegawa said, was a response from the United Nations towards the request of the Government, which had been put forward by Minister of State Administration, Ana Pessoa Pinto. According to Hasegawa, while in Timor-Leste, NAM whose members have good knowledge on elections from South Africa and Spain, will meet with Government officials in order to discuss the elections needs. (Timor Post)

Ramos Horta: Canalization of Greater Sunrise Is Not Clear

It is reported that Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Josi Ramos-Horta, through a press release issued last Friday, stated that the case of Greater Sunrise pipeline was not yet clear since there has not been an agreement whether it would be channelled towards Timor-Leste or towards Australia. Moreover, Ramos-Horta said that Timor-Leste's Government is under the obligation to negotiate with the Australian Government on the draft agreement covering Greater Sunrise and also the critical agreement on maritime border. In addition, Ramos-Horta said that it is clear that the Government of Timor-Leste believes that it will make sense commercially if the pipeline is channelled towards Timor-Leste since it will reduce its distance of nearly 2/3. (Diario Tempo)