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East Timor News Digest 3 – March 1-31, 2008
Melbourne Age - March 31, 2008
Lindsay Murdoch, Darwin – Non-government organisations have
called on the East Timorese Government to end a cycle of impunity
for the perpetrators of violence, including those committing
political crimes.
The East Timor NGO Forum, which represents 170 organisations in
Dili, urged countries that send aid to the country to push for
accountability for past crimes, including those committed during
the 25 years of Indonesia's occupation.
Most offences committed since the violent upheaval in 2006 remain
unsolved and "not one convicted person is in a legally recognised
prison facility", the forum said in a statement delivered at a
foreign donor's conference held at East Timor's Foreign Ministry.
Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao told the conference that 600
soldiers whose actions prompted the 2006 violence would not face
prosecution.
He said the state was "not exempt from responsibility" for
failing to acknowledge the men's aspirations. The soldiers, who
are living together in a Dili camp, would be offered money or
return to the army, Mr Gusmao said.
The soldiers were led by Gastao Salsinha, the former army
lieutenant who led last month's attack on Mr Gusmao and is still
on the run in East Timor's central mountains. At least eight of
his men who have surrendered since the attacks have been welcomed
by leaders in Dili, including Mr Gusmao, and have still not been
jailed.
The NGO Forum said in its statement that "many people observe
that those who commit political crimes go free even though they
were recommended for prosecution by independent commissions".
The Age reported last month that East Timor's President Jose
Ramos Horta had promised to push for an amnesty for rebel leader
Alfredo Reinado before he was killed while leading an attack on
the President's home.
The NGO Forum also criticised the Government's decision to extend
until April 22 a state of siege, which includes curfews and
limits on assembly.
Meanwhile, the commission investigating violence that erupted
during East Timor's independence vote in 1999 is ready to submit
its findings after several delays caused by disagreements among
commissioners.
The Indonesia-East Timor Commission of Truth and Friendship has
no prosecution powers and can recommend amnesties for those who
testified before it. It has been boycotted by the United Nations,
which says those guilty of human rights violence should face
justice.
Bloomberg News - February 19, 2008
Angela Macdonald-Smith, Sydney – Woodside Petroleum should delay
plans to develop the Sunrise natural gas field in the Timor Sea
for up to 10 years to extend the time East Timor will get
royalties, an East Timor non-government group says.
Starting liquefied natural gas from the proposed Sunrise project
in 2019 rather than 2013, as in the fastest possible development,
would provide six more years of income, La'o Hamutuk said
yesterday in a report on its website.
The delay would also avoid an overlap in revenue for the
Government from Sunrise and the operating Bayu-Undan field, it
said.
East Timor, also known as Timor-Leste, last week extended a state
of emergency after renegade soldiers shot and wounded President
Jose Ramos-Horta at his home. Oil and gas supplies more than 90%
of government revenue in the nation, which gained independence
from Indonesia in 2002.
"If the project goes ahead expeditiously, concept selection will
be probably in 2008, the development plan could be approved in
2009 and gas production could begin in 2013," the report said.
"However, it would be better for Timor-Leste if the project
started later."
Dili-based La'o Hamutuk, or the Timor-Leste Institute for
Reconstruction Monitoring and Analysis, is a non-government
organisation that analyses and reports on international
institutions working in East Timor in connection with the
country's economic and social development.
The Sunrise venture, which includes ConocoPhillips and Royal
Dutch Shell, resumed work on the project last year after a gap of
more than two years while it awaited an agreement between
Australia and East Timor on administering the project.
The field straddles a boundary between Australian waters and an
area jointly managed by Australia and East Timor. Perth-based
Woodside, which owns 33.4% of Sunrise and is the venture
operator, does not have an official timetable for the project.
A spokesman, Roger Martin, said the company was developing plans
for several LNG projects and had not said which of Sunrise, the
Browse project, or a second production unit at the Pluto project
being built in Western Australia would be developed next after
the first Pluto plant.
The venture was studying three development options, including
piping the gas to Darwin for processing, a floating LNG plant or
building a plant in East Timor, he said.
February 11 shooting
Truth & Friendship Commission
Balibo 5 killings
Social conflicts/refugees
UNMIT/ISF
Health & education
Police/military
Book/film reviews
Opinion & analysis
East Timor media monitoring
News & issues
Timor urged to get tough on offenders
Call for Sunrise to be delayed
Timor Leste cheers Cuban president
Prensa Latina - February 29, 2008
Dili – Interim President Fernando La Sama De Araujo of Timor Leste sent congratulations Friday to Raul Castro at his election as president of the Cuban State and Minister councils.
In his letter, La Sama de Araujo also said he wished good health to Commander in Chief Fidel Castro.
The acting president expressed the Timor Leste people's recognition "for the contribution of Cuba's collaboration to our country's social development, and reiterate its great importance to us."
The text mentioned Cuba's assistance and support as essential for teaching basic literacy to adults, promoting primary and secondary health assistance, training doctors, nurses, and other medical personnel and generally consolidating public health services.
Araujo also said he would continue to be personally committed to developing bilateral cooperation and strengthening friendship between both peoples.
The acting head of State said the news about Timor Leste ¢ s President Jose Ramos Horta is very positive and he should be totally recovered in a few weeks. (hr/ccs/iom sus)
| February 11 shooting |
Sydney Morning Herald - March 28, 2008
Lindsay Murdoch, Darwin – East Timorese President Jose Ramos Horta has accused a Timor-born Australian woman of influencing rebel leader Alfredo Reinado in the lead-up to last month's assassination bid.
Angelita Pires, who was the rebel leader's "intimate associate and lover", was among several people who had "manipulated and influenced" Reinado before the attack on February 11, Mr Ramos Horta said.
Speaking for the first time about the attempt on his life, Mr Ramos Horta also told The Age yesterday how he came within a split second of being killed.
"I could see from the face and eyes of one of Reinado's men that he was going to shoot me," Mr Ramos Horta said. "I turned around. It was at that moment that he fired at least two shots, hitting me on the right side of the back," he said.
"If I had not turned at that moment he would have shot me right in the chest ... I would have died immediately."
Mr Ramos Horta, who has been released from hospital but remains in Darwin recovering from his gunshot wounds, said he wanted answers to many questions arising from the attempt on his life, including why the Australian-led International Stabilisation Force (ISF) did not immediately hunt down the attackers.
He understood that there was no "hostile pursuit" of the rebels for two days.
Mr Ramos Horta said he also wanted to know why United Nations police did not immediately come to his assistance. He described how he lay bleeding for about 30 minutes near the front gate of his house on a hill overlooking Dili harbour. "I felt no pain," he said.
But he remembered thinking that if he died, East Timor would explode into violence. "This was what partly helped me hang on."
Mr Ramos Horta also told why he returned to the house from a morning beach walk after hearing two sets of gunshots. He said he initially looked at two Timorese army soldiers who were with him and said "Yes, the shots are from the house."
But he said he then encountered the Dili manager of the ANZ bank, who was riding a bike. "He said in a casual and relaxed way that the ISF was doing an exercise near my house," Mr Ramos Horta said. "That being the case, I felt relaxed and decided to go home," he said. "I also wanted to check on the people at my house -- they included children."
Mr Ramos Horta said that as he approached the house he saw a bullet-riddled army vehicle. "I didn't see a single person, I didn't see any ISF soldier," he said. "It looked very weird to me.
"I started to walk more cautiously, concerned. At one point when we were approaching the gate one of the soldiers who was escorting me said to be careful, there's somebody there ... he meant some hostile person.
"When I looked I saw one of Alfredo's men in full uniform with a cloth on his head. He then aimed the gun at me."
Mr Ramos Horta said when he was shot he fell to the road and was unable to move for about 30 minutes until a battered old ambulance arrived. He said he made repeated calls for help on his mobile phone.
He said an inquiry must investigate why UN police failed to immediately encircle the area around his house to prevent the attackers escaping.
"Why didn't the ISF immediately launch actions to capture those elements?" he said. "How did Mr Alfredo Reinado happen to be totally undetected in Dili when the ISF was supposed to be keeping an eye on his movements?
"There are quite a number of missing elements that have to be clarified," Mr Ramos Horta said.
"The people of my country are demanding answers and I intend to get answers to all of these questions." Mr Ramos Horta said a commission of inquiry should also examine who was behind both Reinado and Gastao Salsinha, the former military commander also suspected of involvement in the February 11 attacks on Mr Ramos Horta and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao.
Reinado, who had been wanted for murder over a previous armed confrontation with police, was killed in a shoot-out with Mr Ramos Horta's bodyguards after the attack.
East Timorese soldiers and police are still hunting Salsinha and 13 of his men in the island nation's central mountains.
Mr Ramos Horta said the attacks came as a shock to the people of East Timor, of whom he is proud for remaining calm.
He said Reinado had told him when they last met in January that he was the only political leader he trusted. He (Reinado) put a lot of trust in me," he said.
But Mr Ramos Horta said Reinado was a very unstable person who was never consistent with what he said. "He does something else the next day while under the influence of his intimate associate and lover Ms Angie Pires and others who were behind him," he said.
"While I managed to create a certain climate of confidence among him and his men, there were some elements behind him who would manipulate and influence the situation," Mr Ramos Horta said.
Ms Pires, 38, who grew up in Darwin, was detained within days of the attacks and appeared before a judge. She was released to house detention in Dili while the investigation into the attacks continues.
Ms Pires is politically well-connected in Dili, but has denied having any prior knowledge of the attacks, or being involved in any plot to destabilise East Timor.
Mr Ramos Horta said he hoped to return to Dili within two or three weeks.
Melbourne Age - March 27, 2008
Jill Jolliffe, Dili – East Timor's chief prosecutor has asserted that rebel soldier Alfredo Reinado planned to assassinate four, not two, leaders in the attack last month that wounded President Jose Ramos Horta and targeted Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao.
In an interview with The Age, prosecutor-general Longuinhos Monteiro said that Reinado had ordered his hit squad to smoke drugs before the attack and that he himself was drugged at the time he invaded the President's residence on February 11.
Reinado was shot dead by a member of the presidential guard in the attack but members of the squad have testified that the aborted plot also involved killing army chief Brigadier Taur Matan Ruak and the chief prosecutor himself, as well as the President and Prime Minister.
He said investigators had seized leaves, which appeared to be marijuana, from Reinado's possessions after he was killed. The prosecutor said forensic experts from the Australian Federal Police, working closely with Timorese investigators, had not yet released their report on the nature of the drugs seized.
He said they were allegedly supplied by "a lady who met Alfredo Reinado on the 8th, 9th and 10th of February". He declined to name the supplier.
He said Reinado had been influenced by a third person over a period beginning in December 2007, "then continuing in January, February and for the three to four days before February 11" to carry out the attack on East Timor's four senior leaders.
"The idea was that when they have these in their hand, dead or alive, Alfredo would benefit, his case would be settled easily, it would be forgotten," he said. "That is what Alfredo told his followers."
Mr Monteiro refused to name the third person, but the dates match periods in which a woman was allegedly with Reinado in the mountains. He said that the person concerned might have been a front for others. Mr Ramos Horta is still recovering in Darwin from gunshot wounds from a weapon fired by one of Reinado's men soon after the rebel leader was killed.
Mr Monteiro said his conclusions were drawn from "dozens of statements given by direct witnesses and some of the suspects... involved directly, at the scene".
He said nine or 10 of the people allegedly involved in the attacks are under detention in a private house in the capital, while others are still being hunted by a joint army-police taskforce in the western mountains.
Justice Minister Lucia Lobato recently issued a decree declaring the house an extension of Dili's Becora Prison, to provide special security conditions.
The prosecutor said all the suspects who allegedly accompanied Reinado in the attack on Mr Ramos Horta's house had testified that they had smoked drugs. But he said this was not the case for the group led by former soldier Gastao Salsinha that attacked Mr Gusmao's convoy. Mr Gusmao escaped unharmed.
He said evidence gathered so far suggested direct involvement of 23 people in the attacks and three or four indirectly, who had knowledge of the operation.
Salsinha is among 12 or 13 people still at large. They include a former policeman, Marcelo Caetano, the man who allegedly wounded Mr Ramos Horta.
Mr Monteiro confirmed that an amount of money in "new 100 US dollar notes" had been found on Reinado's body, and that investigators had frozen bank accounts "at home and abroad" to track a money trail considered relevant to the assassination plot. He said he was not in a position to reveal amounts but "our experts from AFP are working on this".
Melbourne Age - March 26, 2008
Lindsay Murdoch, Darwin – Alfredo Reinado, the rebel leader who led last month's attacks in Dili, turned up at a television studio in Jakarta while Australian soldiers were hunting him in East Timor's mountains.
Confirmation of Reinado's ability to travel to Jakarta while he was East Timor's most wanted fugitive will fuel speculation that unidentified figures in Indonesia were behind the February 11 attacks.
The Age has confirmed Reinado, wearing an army uniform, was interviewed in the Jakarta studio of Metro TV for a program that aired on May 21 last year.
It has also been confirmed that Reinado arrived at the station in Jakarta with at least one armed bodyguard. Australian Federal Police in Jakarta later went to the station, but Reinado had already recorded the interview and was long gone.
In the interview, the Australian-trained Reinado spoke about his life on the run in East Timor, where he was wanted for several murders and armed rebellion. Reinado spoke about his frustration in trying to negotiate a deal for his surrender with East Timor leaders Xanana Gusmao and Jose Ramos Horta. They were playing political games, he said.
Mr Gusmao, who is now Prime Minister, and Mr Ramos Horta, who is President, were the targets of the attacks by two groups of Reinado's men on February 11. Mr Ramos Horta was seriously wounded and has been recovering in Darwin and Mr Gusmao was unhurt.
The investigation into the attacks has focused on the rebels' motive and who paid them large sums of money, some of which was found on Reinado's body after he was shot dead at Mr Ramos Horta's house. Investigators have traced some of the money to a bank account in Dili.
A visit to Dili in late January by Jakarta gangster Hercules Rozario Marcal prompted calls in Dili for the terms of reference for an international commission of inquiry into the attacks to be widened.
Timorese-born Hercules, described by the Indonesian press as "king of gangsters", was on the same Metro TV program as Reinado last year. Hercules has denied any involvement in the attacks.
Hercules and Reinado as teenagers had served as porters for the Indonesian army. By the early 1990s, Hercules was living in the Jakarta house of Zacky Anwar Makarim, an army major-general indicted by a 2003 UN war crimes panel for allegedly orchestrating a campaign to undermine the independence referendum in East Timor in which 1500 people were killed.
Jakarta has refused to put him on trial or extradite him.
The Australian - March 18, 2008
Paul Toohey – A large amount of cash was allegedly found on the body of rebel soldier Alfredo Reinado after he was shot dead in President Jose Ramos Horta's compound in East Timor last month.
"It was not $29,000. It was not $31,000. It was exactly $30,000, in $US100 notes," said a senior East Timorese government source.
The apparent discovery of the new bank notes by a guard searching the dead rebel has renewed speculation that Reinado had powerful backers, although his lawyer, Benny Benevides, does not believe it.
"After he was shot, I am suspicious someone put money in his pocket," Mr Benevides said. "It is so easy to blame him that he was an actor on behalf of masterminds. He had no money at all – for two years he had no money. I was told the maximum he had in his pocket that day was between $20 and $50."
Reinado was close to Angelita Pires, a joint Australian-East Timorese citizen who was with him until 11 o'clock the night before his deadly dawn visit to Mr Ramos Horta's compound. She denied giving Reinado money.
Yesterday, she would only repeat what she has already told an investigating judge. While she had gone to see Reinado the night before, she said, it was to give him a mobile phone as a "Valentine's Day gift".
Ms Pires said the investigation into events of February 11 were moving fast and would see her fully exonerated, but she was forbidden from discussing the case.
Reinado, who led a band of fugitive former soldiers called "petitioners", was shot dead during an assault on Mr Ramos Horta's villa outside the East Timor capital, Dili. The President was shot several times and continues to recover in Darwin hospital.
Ms Pires spent most of her life in Australia and had in recent months acted as a representative of Reinado. The Australian-led International Stabilisation Force said in a statement it had met her "in a public place in Dili" in January as a conflict- avoidance measure. The ISF said it had used her contact with Reinado to ensure his men and the ISF knew each other's general movements, and added that she was "not a paid informant of the ISF and no money or gratuities were ever passed to Ms Pires".
Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao and Mr Ramos Horta hold Ms Pires responsible for mucking up negotiations in early December last year, which could have seen Reinado surrender.
In that planned meeting, military heads and Mr Gusmao had arranged for Reinado to come to Dili at 8am. Mr Ramos Horta was on standby to attend and ratify documents as the meeting concluded. They waited until midday for Reinado.
"Then Angelita Pires called and said, 'He's not coming'," said the source. "The Prime Minister was very upset and very disturbed that a third party was throwing stones into this. "Alfredo never called us to explain. She called. She was saying the real plan was to arrest Reinado and then shoot him dead in front of the Prime Minister. It was ridiculous."
The source said it was likely that Reinado had received the cash late on Sunday. "Why did he have $30,000 in his pocket? Because he had only received it a few hours before. He did not have time to put the money anywhere safe. He could not leave it behind – he had to take it with him.
"Who gave him the money? What were his instructions? I don't know. My strong information is that he had been told he had an invitation to go to the President's house that morning. He had no such invitation."
Ms Pires was one of the first people pulled in by police after the shooting. Initially, it was said she would be charged with conspiracy to murder and crimes against the state. She was released after a night in a Dili police cell pending further investigation. She is not allowed to leave Dili.
Prosecutor-General Longuinhos Monteiro has told The Australian: "From sources we have, indications are she was a financial backer (of Reinado)." Ms Pires said she had no money to give Reinado and says the truth about the events of February 11 will soon be known.
Sun Herald (Sydney) - March 16, 2008
Lindsay Murdoch and Tom Hyland – One of East Timor's most influential politicians has called for the inquiry into the recent attacks on the nation's leaders to be widened to include the possible role of a notorious Jakarta gangster.
The gangster is Hercules Rozario Marcal, but in Indonesia where he lives, and East Timor the birthplace he wants to return to, he's always referred to as just Hercules – "the king of the gangsters".
Hercules had close links with Soeharto-era generals – including an officer charged by the United Nations with orchestrating the destruction of East Timor after the 1999 independence ballot.
Hercules visited Dili with a high-powered Indonesian business delegation three weeks before the attempted assassination of President Jose Ramos-Horta and the attempted abduction of Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao.
During the January 21 visit, he met both leaders and other senior officials and said he was looking at investment opportunities. Mario Carrascalao, part of East Timor's ruling alliance, said he "knew something bad was about to happen" when Hercules visited Dili.
Hercules gained notoriety in Jakarta in the 1990s as a gangster involved in protection rackets, extortion, gambling and prostitution. He and his gang also served as enforcers for the Soeharto regime, intimidating political dissidents and East Timorese independence activists.
Mr Carrascalao, governor during the Indonesian occupation, is president of the Social Democratic Party, one of four parties in the current coalition headed by Mr Gusmao. His suspicions about Hercules are also shared by other senior politicians and international agencies in East Timor.
He said he had heard that while Hercules was in Dili he met the army rebel Alfredo Reinado, who was shot dead during the February 11 attack on President Ramos-Horta. But he said he had no proof. "No matter what Hercules was doing in East Timor, he should be part of the commission of inquiry," Mr Carrascalao said.
Dr Ian Wilson of Perth's Murdoch University, who is about to publish a book on the gangs, has interviewed Hercules. "Any serious business initiative wouldn't want anything to do with him, in Indonesia certainly," Dr Wilson said. "His reputation is huge and it's not a good one."
Melbourne Age - March 12, 2008
Lindsay Murdoch, Darwin – East Timor President Jose Ramos Horta was almost killed by a banned soft-nosed bullet that expands when it hits, inflicting a large jagged wound. The "dum-dum" bullet is banned by the Geneva Convention.
Mr Ramos Horta suffered three holes in the right side of his back and another huge wound in the area of his ribs.
Doctors in Darwin extracted metal fragments lodged deep in muscle close to his spine. But in what Royal Darwin Hospital manager Len Notaras described as a triumph for medical staff, Mr Ramos Horta is expected to make a full recovery after six operations.
Mr Notaras said the fragments had been taken away for examination by Australian Federal Police and the US Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Mr Ramos Horta last night made a national address to East Timor's 1 million people, urging all political parties to work together to solve the country's problems. He thanked Timorese for their support, naming rebel leader Alfredo Reinado and renegade former army lieutenant Gastao Salsinha as his attackers.
Mr Ramos Horta also thanked all Australians for their support, including medical staff in Dili who he said saved his life. The address will be aired on Timor television tonight (Wednesday).
The Age has also learnt that a gangster in Jakarta called Hercules is under investigation over his links to Reinado. Hercules visited Dili only days before the February 11 attack on Mr Ramos Horta.
Hercules, who has one eye and one arm, became well known in Indonesia as a "dirty tricks" operative under the former dictator Suharto after he went to live in Jakarta in the 1980s. He was implicated in a failed 1999 plot to assassinate East Timor's former Indonesian-appointed governor and political party leader Mario Carrascalao.
Four weeks after the attacks the Government in Dili still has not released any information about the events that led to Mr Ramos Horta being shot at his villa on a hill overlooking Dili harbour.
Rebels holed up in East Timor's rugged mountains have given a version of the attacks that contradicts Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao. But Mr Gusmao insists the rebels wanted to assassinate him and Mr Ramos Horta in an attempt to topple the Government.
What is not known is whether Reinado was acting alone when he led 10 of his men to Mr Ramos Horta's villa shortly after dawn on February 11.
A politically well-connected person from Dili was with him in a mountain town until 11pm the night before the attacks. The person is known to have received money from an undisclosed source, The Age has learnt.
When Reinado arrived at Mr Ramos Horta's house shortly after dawn he and one of his men went inside. Both were killed.
What doesn't make sense, though, is that Reinado would want to kill Mr Ramos Horta, the person who had done more than anybody else to facilitate his surrender, even promising to push for his pardon for the crimes of mass murder and rebellion.
Mr Ramos Horta was upset when he heard that Reinado was dead. Within days of waking from an induced coma in hospital he asked the Government in Dili to forgive Reinado and look after his family.
The Australian - March 11, 2008
Paul Toohey – President Jose Ramos Horta is struggling to comprehend the betrayal involved in an attempt by former members of the Timorese military to kill him and the country's Prime Minister, Xanana Gusmao.
Although he is recovering well from bullet wounds in a Darwin hospital, Mr Ramos Horta was said yesterday to have been hurt in ways surgery could not mend.
Speaking after a meeting between Mr Ramos Horta and Mr Gusmao – who also came close to death after a near-simultaneous ambush on his motorcade – the Prime Minister's Australian-born wife said the morale of the two men had been seriously affected.
"Obviously this one has a deeply personal nature and it will be hard, I guess, to recover from the fact that someone, a member of your people, has taken a gun and taken this action against you," Kirsty Sword-Gusmao said.
"But (the President is) extremely robust. I know he won't allow this to distract him from the business of taking care of the nation and the people."
Of her husband, she said: "I think, similarly to President Ramos Horta, he has suffered in terms of his morale, but it's not long-term damage.
"And as with Jose Ramos Horta, he'll get back on the job, stay focused on what the issue is, which is about nation building, restoring complete peace and calm to the population."
Mr Gusmao said he greeted Mr Ramos Horta at Darwin Private Hospital with the words: "How are you, Mr President? How are you, brother?"
"As you know, I came as Prime Minister, and as a friend also, to visit the President," Mr Gusmao said. "We are very glad to see the President walking around and being in a good recovery process.
"I told the President about the situation in our country and I have to tell you also that we are still trying to bring pressure to the rest of the rebel group (responsible for the assassination attempts). We hope this week will be the end of the operation."
The rebel leader, Lieutenant Gastao Salsinha, who has been identified as being at the Prime Minister's house on the morning of February 11 and is accused a firing his rifle into the air to give the signal to his men to fire on Mr Gusmao's motorcade, was set to surrender late last week.
It had got to the point where vehicles had been arranged to bring Salsinha and more than 30 of his men, with 18 automatic weapons, into Dili. But negotiations collapsed. Mr Gusmao said yesterday Salsinha had two choices: "surrender or face the consequences".
Ms Sword-Gusmao, who along with her husband was accompanied on the short trip to Darwin by her eldest son, Alexandre, said the meeting between the nation's two leaders was a warm one.
"Clearly (they are) two men who have been very close friends and colleagues for a very long time and I guess they've both been through a pretty horrific ordeal in recent weeks, and naturally, for Xanana to see Jose in such good physical form and in good spirits was a huge relief.
"For us as a family, this was an important opportunity to see with our own eyes that Jose, or godfather as Alexandre knows him, is doing well and to have that confidence he'll soon be back on board and leading again the country so capably."
Mr Ramos Horta is likely to soon move into a safe house in Darwin and may not be home in Dili for another month.
Sydney Morning Herald - March 3, 2008
Lindsay Murdoch, Darwin – A rebel commander who was at the home of East Timor's President, Jose Ramos-Horta, the morning he was shot and seriously wounded has surrendered.
Amaro Da Costa, also known as "Susar", has agreed to tell all he knows in the biggest breakthrough so far in the investigation into the February 11 attacks in the capital, Dili, military sources revealed yesterday.
Da Costa, a former police commando, was a confidant of the rebel leader Alfredo Reinado who was killed during a gunfight at Mr Ramos-Horta's house.
His surprise surrender in a village near the town of Alieu, 120 kilometres south of Dili, early yesterday has fuelled speculation about the imminent surrender of other members of Reinado's gang who have been hunted in the mountains since the attacks.
The gang's leader, Gastao Salsinha, has been negotiating his surrender to the Catholic Church, military sources in Dili told the Herald.
The Prime Minister, Xanana Gusmao, who was also targeted in the attacks, has approved the church's role, saying he does not want the rebels killed during a hunt led by Australian SAS troops.
Mr Gusmao made a new appeal yesterday for the remainder of the rebels to surrender. "I am asking you to co-operate with the joint command so that people can live in tranquillity," he said from the government palace.
Filomeno Paixao, the head of the joint Timorese command established to hunt the rebels, confirmed after parading Da Costa at a press conference in Dili that negotiators have had direct contact with Salsinha. "We hope he will surrender soon," Mr Paixao told journalists.
The surrender of Da Costa, the most feared of Reinado's men, follows the surrender of six of the rebels last week.
Salsinha, who took command of the gang after Reinado's death, appears left with little option but to surrender despite telling journalists he would never do so.
His support base has crumbled since the attacks; more than 500 former soldiers he once led have arrived in Dili in the lead-up to negotiations aimed at settling their grievances that date back to 2006, when 600 were sacked after they had gone on strike. The sackings sparked violent upheaval that left 37 people dead and forced 150,000 from their homes.
Mr Gusmao's government has indicated it is willing to give the former soldiers three years' salary or else reinstate them in the army.
Investigators in Dili told the Herald Da Costa's testimony will be a key to revealing Reinado's motive for leading a group of armed men to Mr Ramos-Horta's house on February 11. Security guards at the house have identified Da Costa, in his early 40s, as being there with Reinado.
Da Costa had been at Reinado's side since May 2006 when, according to a United Nations inquiry, Reinado and 11 of his men became involved in a gunbattle with Timorese soldiers that left five people dead and 11 wounded.
He was with Reinado in March last year during a botched attack by the SAS in the town of Same in the central mountains, and when Reinado led a mass escape from Dili's main jail in August 2006.
He walked calmly into Turiscai village at 2am yesterday and handed two high-powered weapons to Timorese security forces who had been hunting him.
Meanwhile, Mr Ramos-Horta continues to recover in Royal Darwin Hospital where he was visited at the weekend by the interim president, Fernando de Araujo. Relatives say he can sit up and is eager to return to work.
The Australian - March 3, 2008
Paul Toohey – The East Timorese rebel leader widely suspected of being the man who shot President Jose Ramos Horta has surrendered, handing in his gun as Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao looked on.
Amaro Suarez da Costa is better known as Susar. The name means "difficult" in Tetum and there are two interpretations of what his chosen resistance code name meant in his case: either difficult to get along with or difficult to kill.
Susar was one of 17 people wanted in connection with the near- simultaneous attacks on Mr Ramos Horta and Mr Gusmao on the morning of February 11. It is known he was involved in the attack on the President's compound and it is widely suggested in East Timor that he shot the President.
He took on the deputy leadership role among the rebels after Major Alfredo Reinado was shot dead in the attacks and – after new rebel leader Lieutenant Gastoa Salsinha – had become East Timor's most wanted. Salsinha is still to hand himself in after being accused of ordering the attack on Gusmao.
Susar handed himself in to authorities in the western mountain town of Turiscai on Saturday night. It is understood the surrender was negotiated between Susar and his intermediaries, the army hierarchy and Prosecutor-General Longuinhos Monteiro.
At yesterday's orchestrated photo-opportunity, designed to send a clear message to the rebels, Mr Gusmao pleaded with them to hand themselves in. "I am asking you to co-operate with the joint command so that people can live in tranquillity," he said.
Susar, who was often seen standing close behind Reinado when he met the media, was a Falintil, or armed resistance, leader. He was the platoon commander who ran Region 2, the central-south of East Timor, from 1992-99 during the Indonesian occupation.
In 1998 he led a successful attack on a TNI (Indonesian army) outpost in Alas, near the south coast, contrary to the orders of Mr Gusmao that no such attacks should be undertaken.
In 2001, admired for his competence with weapons, he joined the police and became a personal bodyguard to former police commissioner Paolo Martins.
Susar stayed with Martins until 2006, when he deserted along with hundreds of others after peacefully protesting petitioners, seeking better conditions within the army, were fired upon by F- FDTL soldiers. His anger was reinforced when the F-FDTL fired on unarmed police seeking sanctuary in the UN compound. Susar joined Reinado in Maubisse, south of Dili, in May 2006, and was involved in a clash with F-FDTL on the eastern outskirts of Dili in that same month, which led to the arrest of Reinado and others for murder. But not Susar.
He returned to his old stomping ground of Same in the south, from where he helped organised the August 30, 2006 mass escape of Reinado and 15 others from Dili's Becora prison by providing the getaway cars.
Susar was aligned with Reinado, but enjoyed the independence he had experienced as a Falintil platoon commander.
A source close to Susar said: "It's all about deals in this country. And a guy like Susar, by surrendering, can cut a deal. There are no rules in this country. Even for shooting a President."
He was involved in an incident early last year whereby he and others managed to relieve border police of their weapons. He was with Reinado in Same when SAS troopers surrounded their hilltop position and killed five of the rebel band.
Susar, with his intimate local knowledge of Same, is thought to have led Reinado and others out of what appeared to be an impossible position.
"He remained on and again off with Reinado from March 2007 until now," said a source intimate with Susar. "And he is almost certainly the guy who was at Ramos Horta's place of February 11 and there is very strong suspicion, and this comes from Ramos Horta's guards, that he actually shot Ramos Horta."
A mythology has grown about Susar in East Timor which holds that he was a sniper or sharpshooter protected by magic, but The Australian's source questioned the sniper angle.
In surrendering, said the source: "He is trying to save his life. He's got in the back of his head he can cut some deal down the track. And he'd rather cut a deal than eat a bullet.
"It's very clear since February 11 the country has no stomach for these guys any more. People are very ashamed of what happened to the President. People like Susar are no longer finding much in the way of help among their old supporters."
| Truth & Friendship Commission |
Jakarta Post - March 31, 2008
Jakarta – In its findings, the joint Indonesia-Timor Leste Commission for Truth and Friendship (CTF) has named an institution it blames for violence prior to and after the independence vote in the former East Timor province in 1999, Antara news agency reported.
Instead of recommending new human rights trials for perpetrators of the violence, however, the commission suggested measures to heal past wounds through reconciliation and friendship between Indonesia and Timor Leste.
"In our final notes which we will submit to the Indonesian and Timor Leste presidents, we only highlight a certain institution which committed human rights violations ahead of and after the East Timor referendum in 1999," Timor Leste commission member Rui Santos told a media conference Saturday in Denpasar.
Santos would not identify the institution, saying it was the responsibility of the two governments to announce the results of the commission's investigations.
An ad hoc Indonesian human rights court convicted a number of military, police and civilian officials for their alleged roles in crimes against humanity in the former Indonesian province. Those found guilty, however, were eventually freed following appeals.
The international community and rights groups in Indonesia questioned the credibility of the trials, which they said preserved impunity for Indonesian security officers involved in the violence.
Indonesia and Timor Leste set up the joint commission in 2005 to discover the truth surrounding the violence, but refrained from prosecuting those found guilty for the sake of their relationship.
In a show of distrust in the commission, the United Nations refused to send its officials to testify, underlining what it said was the commission's failure to comply with international standards.
The Indonesian chairman of the commission, Benjamin Mangkoedilaga, said the final report would provide conclusive truths about the causes, nature and coverage of human rights abuses in East Timor in 1999. The contents of the report, he added, would be recognized as part of the history of the two countries.
The governments of Indonesia and Timor Leste will review the joint commission's findings, before the report is made public. The commission was scheduled to submit the report to the Indonesian and Timor Leste presidents by March 31 (today), but Benjamin said this could change.
"We are still waiting for responses from both presidents as to when and where they can receive our final report," Benjamin said.
Jakarta Post - March 26, 2008
Jakarta – The Indonesia-Timor Leste Commission on Truth and Friendship (CTF) has had its mandate further extended due to internal disputes over its final report.
The commission's deputy chairman for Indonesia, Agus Widjojo, said Tuesday the joint commission had to come through "a tough process to seek consensus" to finalize its report, which is to be submitted to presidents of the neighboring countries by March 31.
"It has been difficult to deliberate some issues and reach agreement. We had to convince each other what we believe is the right thing," Agus told The Jakarta Post.
He declined to go into detail about the contentious issues, which he said had caused the commission to miss its original January 2008 deadline.
The commission has extended the deadline three times since August last year. Agus said both parties needed to consider various issues, especially when it came to reviewing documents.
"We want to make sure the final verdict is unbiased and fair for both Indonesia and Timor Leste, that's why firm agreements are needed despite the debates that we had," he said.
Agus, a former Army general, said the CTF members also had trouble interpreting the commission's framework and the way their investigation was conducted.
He played down the commission's failure to meet its own deadline, saying the timeframe was not absolute as the team was allowed to extend its investigation. "Besides, this commission works based on the spirit of peace and reconciliation for both countries, so that's all that matters," Agus said.
Timor Leste and Indonesia agreed to establish the commission in 2005 to probe alleged human rights violations involving the Indonesian Military (TNI) prior to and after a UN-administered referendum in the former Indonesian province in 1999.
TNI-backed militia groups were blamed for the deaths of hundreds of people and the destruction of infrastructure following East Timor's vote for independence.
Critics, however, have lashed out at the agreement which they say will preserve impunity as it does not aim to try those found guilty.
The commission, they say, is a political compromise that favors good relations between the two countries over justice for victims of the violence.
Agus said the commission would encourage the two governments to disclose the names of all the perpetrators of the violence for the sake of human rights and justice.
"The authority to announce the findings belongs only to the Indonesian president and the Timor Leste president and prime minister," Agus said.
He said the commission cross-checked all its findings with documents from the Indonesian National Commission of Inquiry on Human Rights Violations (KPP HAM), the Ad-hoc Human Rights Court on East Timor, the Special Panel for Serious Crimes and the Commission of Reception, Truth and Reconciliation in Timor Leste.
Australian Associated Press - March 14, 2008
Human rights groups are worried. The controversial Indonesia-East Timor "truth" commission into the violence surrounding East Timor's historic 1999 vote for independence will hand down its final report within weeks.
The Commission of Truth and Friendship (CTF) will have the authority to recommend amnesties for those who perpetrated human rights abuses, but has no power to order prosecution.
It was established by the two countries in a bid to establish a "conclusive truth" about the 1999 violence to help repair relations.
Human rights groups say East Timor's ability to bring those responsible to justice will be key to the future of the country, which has a dismal past track record.
Commission co-chair Benjamin Mankoedilaga said commissioners hoped to hand over the final report to Indonesia's President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and wounded East Timor President Jose Ramos-Horta at a ceremony in Bali by month's end.
"But seeing the reality now, what is developing in Timor Leste, and the political business of our president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono... we still haven't got answer (from them)," Mankoedilaga said.
Ramos-Horta is recovering in Darwin after he was shot by assailants at his Dili home last month. East Timor's Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao was also shot at a short time later, but escaped uninjured.
Ramos-Horta already has said he forgives rebel leader Alfredo Reinado – killed in the ambush – with whom the government had unsuccessfully tried to negotiate since his escape from a Dili prison 18 months ago on murder charges.
International Centre for Transitional Justice senior associate Galuh Wandita is concerned the upcoming CTF report could also undermine attempts to build a strong respect for the law.
"Obviously this whole policy to put aside justice for political compromise is weakening rule of law in East Timor and the CTF report could just be another step weakening the rule of law," she said.
"That's why we are very concerned. It reflects this consistent policy of the government to put aside the hard questions of justice for more immediate political gains.
"Political compromise is on one hand understandable, but on the other hand, the cost for East Timor is too (high)."
A recent ICTJ report into the CTF warned it risked becoming a "diplomatic charade" unless it delivered a strong and independent finding. It found the truth body was "deeply flawed" and many witnesses at the public hearings had presented an "alarming version of events" from alleged perpetrators.
But Wandita was optimistic no amnesties would be recommended following lobbying from NGOs and other groups.
CTF co-chairman Mankoedilaga said the report could be controversial. "We cannot satisfy everyone, there is the possibility (of controversy) but we are trying our hardest to (satisfy everyone)," he said.
He said the findings were unanimous among the five East Timorese and five Indonesian commissioners. "We went through a struggle (but) there is no dissenting opinion," he said.
"This was a very interesting job for us, in any kind of job there is no smooth work. This is a commission formed by two countries, each of them has their own interests."
| Balibo 5 killings |
Australian Associated Press - March 20, 2008
Belinda Tasker – Britain could launch legal action against two surviving former Indonesian military chiefs linked to the deaths of the Balibo Five if Australia fails to pursue the men.
Foreign Office Minister Meg Munn raised the possibility during talks today in London with British relatives of Malcolm Rennie, one of five Australian-based newsmen deliberately killed by Indonesian troops in the East Timorese border town of Balibo 32 years ago.
The Australian Federal Police and the commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions are still considering whether to prosecute the two Indonesians a NSW coroner has linked to the deaths.
After a lengthy inquest last year into the newsmen's deaths, deputy NSW coroner Dorelle Pinch found that a handful of former senior Indonesian military personnel, including Captain Yunus Yosfiah and Commander Christoforus da Silva, were involved in the killings.
Ms Munn told two of Mr Rennie's cousins that she hoped to have talks with Australian government ministers in coming weeks to find out when a decision about whether to prosecute was likely to be made. She also agreed to discuss the issue further when she visits Australia later this year.
Liberal Democrats MP Don Foster, who attended today's meeting, said both the minister and Mr Rennie's relatives hoped Australia would pursue da Silva and Yosfiah.
"(Meg Munn) has agreed to have further meetings with the relatives of the Balibo Five and she has said that the British government doesn't rule out the possibility of Britain taking action in the event that Australia does not," he told AAP.
"I think if we look back at the history of Britain's rather sad involvement in this case, there are now clear signs progress is now being made."
Mr Rennie's cousins, Suzanne Andel and Margaret Wilson, said they were desperate to find out how long Australian officials would take to decide whether to launch legal action. "If Malcolm were still alive today he would have been 62 a couple of weeks ago and there's still a need for justice," Ms Andel said.
Ms Wilson said she hoped Australia would take action, and quickly. "Some of the witnesses have already died and some of the accused have already died," she said. "We don't have an infinite amount of time to pursue this."
When she handed down her findings last November, Ms Pinch ruled that Gary Cunningham, Greg Shackleton, Tony Stewart and their British-born colleagues Brian Peters and Malcolm Rennie were shot or stabbed while trying to surrender to Indonesian-led troops who stormed Balibo on October 16, 1975.
Captain Yosfiah, who later became Indonesia's minister of information, has denied ordering the killings.
If Australia decides it either cannot or will not pursue Yosfiah and da Silva, Britain could face difficulties launching its own criminal proceedings because it has no extradition treaty with Indonesia. However, it could possibly pursue action under international war crimes laws.
Mr Foster and Mr Rennie's cousins hope British Prime Minister Gordon Brown will discuss the issue with his Australian counterpart Kevin Rudd when he visits London next month. A British Foreign Office spokeswoman said: "It's a matter for the Australian judicial process and we will see what happens."
The British government has previously been accused of being involved in a cover-up of the Balibo Five's deaths. Last month it faced calls from Mr Foster to ask INTERPOL to issue arrest warrants for da Silva and Yosfiah.
Sydney Morning Herald - March 17, 2008
Julia May, London – A former head of defence intelligence in East Timor has criticised the British and Australian governments for failing to extradite two former Indonesian military leaders named over the killings of five newsmen in 1975.
Clinton Fernandes, the Australian former army major who was head of intelligence during East Timor's liberation from Indonesia in 1999, said a lack of political will, rather than legal obstacles, was hindering the process. He called on the British Government to stop "passing the buck" and to seek to extradite the men for war crimes.
The call comes three days before a meeting between a British Foreign Office Minister, Meg Munn, the British Liberal Democrat MP Don Foster, and relatives of two of the newsmen who were British.
During a parliamentary debate in Britain last month Mr Foster called on the British Government to ask Interpol to issue arrests for the Indonesians, Christoforus da Silva and Captain Yunus Yosfiah, who were named in November by the NSW Deputy Coroner for the killings of the five Australia-based newsmen in Balibo. Captain Yosfiah went on to become the Indonesian information minister.
The two British newsmen were Brian Peters and Malcolm Rennie. Greg Shackleton and Tony Stewart were Australian, and Gary Cunningham was a New Zealander.
The NSW Coroner referred the case to the Federal Attorney-General for consideration, branding the deaths as the wilful killing of civilians and therefore war crimes under international law.
Australia has an extradition agreement with Indonesia, and until now Britain has said it would wait for Australia to act under the treaty. But Britain is facing pressure to instead exercise its international jurisdiction under the Geneva Conventions.
"The murder in cold blood of the five journalists at Balibo was a grave breach of the fourth Geneva convention, and Britain can exercise universal jurisdiction over that grave breach," Dr Fernandes said. "Rather than pass the buck to the Australian authorities, it can act right now by asking Interpol to issue an arrest warrant for the two suspects."
The Australian Federal Attorney-General's office said last month it had referred the case to the federal police, who have yet to provide a brief of evidence for the Commonwealth Department of Public Prosecutions.
Mr Foster said he would use the meeting on Wednesday to urge Ms Munn to encourage the Australian Government to expedite the process. The next step, he said, would be for Britain to seek to extradite the men. "If a citizen is killed abroad there is a duty of government becoming involved in seeking the truth of what happened," he said.
Ms Munn's response will be closely watched, given her publicly stated position on Balibo.
In 2002 Ms Munn, who became Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State last July, signed a parliamentary petition to urge the British Government to press Indonesia to co-operate in a United Nations investigation into the killings of the Balibo five, and a Financial Times journalist in East Timor in 1999.
A British Foreign Office spokesman said Ms Munn's personal position was unlikely to influence the Government's policy on Balibo.
"We have noted [the NSW coroner's] verdict, but these findings are the outcome of an independent judicial process run by the NSW State Coroner's Court," he said.
"It is for the Australian Attorney-General to decide how to take this forward. We are in contact with the Australian authorities about this issue." Asked if Britain would seek to extradite the men, he said he was unable to comment.
| Social conflicts/refugees |
Agence France Presse - March 31, 2008
Dili – East Timor and its foreign supporters must do more to resettle around 100,000 citizens still homeless after unrest in 2006, the International Crisis Group said Monday.
A weak economy, a lack of security and a shortage of housing have left the tiny Asian country unable to shake the problem of internally displaced persons, the think tank said in a report.
"Successive governments and their international partners have failed to bring about the conditions in which they might return home or to prevent further waves of displacements," the report said.
While the death of rebel leader Alfredo Reinado in a February attack on President Jose Ramos-Horta had led to a sense of greater calm, unrest could reemerge if the root causes of the violence weren't addressed, the ICG warned.
"The government needs to address fundamental drivers of conflict, such as communal tensions, problems within the security forces and (a) lack of economic opportunities – before the next Reinado appears," it said.
The report recommended East Timor assuage the concerns of its displaced by prosecuting those responsible for the violence in 2006, and by ensuring housing and livelihood outside the camps.
Many of them were choosing to stay in the camps because of a housing shortage and unclear land laws outside, as well as a program providing free food inside the camps, the ICG said.
International forces have been stationed in East Timor since 2006, after a mass desertion by members of the armed forces prompted fighting between military and police factions and street violence that killed at least 37.
Reinado and one other rebel were killed and Ramos-Horta was wounded during a clash at the president's residence on Feb. 11. Reputed Reinado right-hand man Gastao Salsinha is still at large with a number of other rebels.
Australian Associated Press - March 31, 2008
Stephanie March, Dili – Jose Sarmento lines up on a basketball court with 3,000 other displaced people to collect his rice and cooking oil for the month.
He stands with an empty rice sack and an old water bottle. These men, women and children wait in line for up to six hours for their four kilograms of rice and a half litre of oil, given out at the Don Bosco Church compound in Dili, their home for the past two years.
As parents wait in line, small children run about screaming and playing basketball. Some children are too young to remember life before their families were forced to take shelter in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. For them food ration lines are a normal part of life.
"We live here because we are afraid of the others," Jose says. For Jose, "the others" are people who burnt down his home during East Timor's 2006 crisis that left 37 people dead, and forced 150,000 to flee their homes.
In 2006, tensions between the country's armed forces paved the way for an east versus west ethnic conflict which led to over 8,000 homes being destroyed and thousands more damaged. Many homes in Dili were burnt down by rival groups within neighbourhoods, forcing residents to flee to IDP camps that emerged across the country.
About 70,000 people still live like Jose, in tents across the country, dependant upon food giveaways, too scared to move back next to neighbours who only two years ago attacked them.
But at the end of April, Jose's food handouts end. In February, the World Food Program (WFP) cut rice rations from eight kilograms to four, and as of April they will stop them altogether.
"It was already in the pipeline because we know that not all IDPs need food handouts, and we don't want to make people dependant," says Joan Fleuren, country director of the WFP in East Timor.
Despite the WFP's long-planned exit strategy, East Timor's State Secretary for Social Assistance Jacinto De Deus says his government was under the impression the WFP would continue its support throughout 2008, which is why it failed to allocate any money in this year's budget to pay for food for the people living in camps.
"This year, the government allocated $US15 million ($A16.38 million) for the IDPs, and mainly that money is only to be used for the recovery effort, and none of the amount is allocated for the humanitarian assistance," he says.
"For two years already, all the food has been provided from the international community through WFP," he said. "It's something that the government must take over but unfortunately we didn't anticipate it during the budget discussion for 2008."
That lack of foresight has forced East Timor's government to launch its own appeal to donors and bilateral partners to help provide the $US700,000 ($A764,442) it says it needs each month to feed the IDPs.
And at a donor meeting on Saturday, East Timor's vice Prime Minister Jose Luis Gutteres appealed to 27 donor countries for $US33.5 million ($A36.58 million) in aid assistance to help the government through 2008. Part of that funding would be used to buy food for IDPs, he said.
But raising that money may prove difficult, as donor fatigue towards the IDP problem is already showing. "Even last June there was always this uneasiness from donors," Fleuren says.
"They were asking 'how long, how much longer do we continue with IDPs?', but that was just after the elections and there was good reason to not completely cut it because there was a new government, but clearly the donors wanted an exit strategy."
There are good reasons for donors to question why they are being asked to give so much money to IDPs.
According to an assessment in September last year, only half of the country's 70,000 displaced people actually need food supplied to them. The other half have access to income-generating activities, or have other means of growing or getting food.
Finn Reske-Nielsen, the United Nations Mission in Timor-Leste humanitarian coordinator, said Timor wasn't Darfur, where people live in camps and they have no other options.
"Many of the people in the camps (in Timor) are working, and many of them have set up little businesses, and therefore they do have alternatives to food handouts," Reske-Nielsen said.
But Fleuren says the assessment also showed that around 35,000 of non-IDPs in East Timor are in desperate need of food assistance.
"What we are trying to do now, is to stop [IDP] food distribution altogether, and we are trying to identify people who are chronically vulnerable, who need continued assistance maybe in the form of food, or food coupons, not only IDPs but also the rest of the population," Fleuren said.
Since the February attacks on East Timor's leaders that left President Jose Ramos Horta severely wounded and rebel leader Alfredo Reinado dead, several hundred displaced people have felt safe enough to move home.
While this initial movement is a good sign, the UN doesn't expect the displacement problem will resolve itself anytime soon, and predicts only one third of displaced people will have returned home by the end of this year.
Jose Sarmento hopes to move home as soon as he gets a relocation grant from the government, but he is worried about what could happen if the government chooses to – or is forced to – stop giving food aid to people in camps.
"Of course there will be trouble because the people who live in camps need to eat three times a day. Where do they get this food? Of course they steal from the others. "Why should the government stop? If the government is not responsible for this, then who is?"
IRIN - March 20, 2008
Dili – A month after the attacks in Timor-Leste that left rebel leader Alfredo Reinado dead and President Jose Ramos Horta wounded, some of the 30,000 internally displaced people (IDPs) living in camps throughout Dili, the capital, are returning home.
The security situation appears to have improved considerably, according to UN and government sources, since the death of Reinado and many of his followers. The 600 former defence force troops with grievances against the government are now negotiating settlements, easing fears of renewed fighting. In addition, the offer of a government relocation package – including assistance to reconstruct houses – has prompted at least 43 families (380 people) to return home in the past week.
Vicente da Silva and his family piled all their worldly possessions – buckets, clothes and cooking pots – on to a truck and waved goodbye to the Dominican Sisters IDP camp they had called home for almost two years.
"I feel about 75 percent safe in my neighbourhood, because the security situation is better and it's calmer now," Da Silva told IRIN. "The police are regularly patrolling the areas, and there are not really any problems."
Da Silva received US$5,000 from the government to rebuild his two homes, which were damaged in the 2006 crisis when tensions erupted between the police and military. He has only just received the money, and will live in a tent on his property, not far from the IDP camp, until he finishes rebuilding his houses.
Safety first
Many IDPs say they feel safer since the police and military merged several weeks ago under a joint command as it demonstrates that the two groups, who were once enemies, can now work together peacefully.
"I saw after the government took the PNTL [national police] and FDTL [national defence force] and put them together ... that they are working together very well," Da Silva said. "I now have faith in the institutions."
But the merger is only temporary, and analysts, including those from the International Crisis Group, fear the situation may not remain calm for ever. They say any renewed violence could see those who are relocating swiftly return to the safety of IDP camps.
"The challenge now is to make sure that people are informed, and make an informed decision about their return," Luis Vieria, chief of mission of the International Organization for Migration, told IRIN. He said the government was working hard on a system to monitor the returnees and defuse any potential tensions.
For Da Silva, making peace with his neighbour, who attacked him with a machete over a bag of rice during the crisis, will be vital to the success of his relocation.
"Two years ago it was difficult and everyone was hungry. Now I will try to work on the relationship with my neighbour ... as it is better living at home than under a tent."
Some 1,500 displaced people living in the corridors of the national hospital But not all the IDPs feel safe returning home.
"For some people, living next to the person who threatened your life will not be an option, no matter how hard we try," said Vieria.
So far, only a handful of the 100,000 displaced throughout the country are showing an interest in returning home.
Plans on how to deal with those who are unwilling to return home are being developed, but, for the moment, the government is focusing on those IDPs who are willing to leave, and those who pose particular problems, such as some 1,500 people living in the corridors of the national hospital, who are causing safety and health concerns.
The Norwegian Refugee Council and the government have built transitional shelters on a new site in the Becora section of Dili, and are arranging for the relocation of IDPs from the hospital.
"Dialogue is ongoing both within the camp and also between the camp residents and the receiving community at the new site to make sure that everything is in order to make sure people can move," said Vieria.
Da Silva feels that many more IDPs will soon start thinking about leaving. "From what I have seen, the majority of IDPs do want to go home," said Da Silva, because they now have seen they are getting support from the government." (sm/bj/mw)
| UNMIT/ISF |
The Australian - March 29, 2008
Paul Toohey – The Australian-led International Stabilisation Force took double the normal time to travel to the compound of Jose Ramos Horta, on the day the East Timorese President was nearly killed.
By the time they got there on February 11, Mr Ramos Horta was already in an ambulance heading for the ISF medical centre in Dili.
The ISF took almost 40 minutes to arrive at the Ramos Horta compound on the outskirts of Dili, when in light of the early morning traffic at the time of the assassination it would normally take about 12-15 minutes.
A log of mobile phone calls from a person on the scene shows repeated attempts were made to contact the ISF, asking for a helicopter to airlift the President to the medical centre and for troops to attend.
Even though the rebels were moving through the hills above the President's compound as they made their escape, there was no apparent attempt to focus on this group by the Australians.
Observers at the scene said no Australian helicopter came over the President's compound at all that morning, but was seen later sweeping the beach. "What, they think: the rebels went swimming?" asked Mr Ramos Horta's brother, Arsenio.
An Australian Defence spokesperson yesterday denied that the ISF had received any request for a helicopter to attend the scene, nor did they receive any reports that the rebels were in the hills.
"During the morning, a Black Hawk helicopter flew patrols over Dili and suburbs, being able to respond if necessary to any support requests," the spokesman said. "A Black Hawk helicopter was not requested to deploy to the President's compound due to the presence of ISF forces already there."
Kevin Rudd yesterday defended the conduct of the ISF troops after Mr Ramos Horta on Thursday criticised the Australians, saying they could have caught the rebels within hours of the attack if they had acted quickly to seal off the capital. "I defend their absolute professionalism in how that was dealt with in very trying circumstances," the Prime Minister said.
The UN said yesterday it took "very seriously" Mr Ramos Horta's allegation that UN police had formed a blockade several hundred metres from his compound, refusing to enter the shooting zone as he lay severely wounded for half an hour.
The Defence spokesman said the initial call came from the National Operations Centre in Dili without specific information about 7am. Once the situation was clarified, appropriate responses were activated by the ISF in co-ordination with the UN security forces.
A phone log from a person who assisted Mr Ramos Horta shows them making calls to the ISF at least six times up to the point when the President was collected from the scene in an old ambulance. More calls to the ISF followed as the vehicle made its way to the medical centre.
An Australian bank manager who was cycling said he was about to head up the steep road past the President's compound when he felt two shots zinging over his shoulder. The man said he turned back, came upon Mr Ramos Horta who was having his morning jog, telling him he thought it was an ISF operation.
Mr Ramos Horta said he went up the hill to see what was going on when he himself was shot.
Australian Associated Press - March 28, 2008
East Timor President Jose Ramos-Horta is critical of the failure of international forces to quickly capture the rebels who attacked him in Dili last month.
Dr Ramos-Horta is recovering in Darwin after being flown to Australia with gunshot wounds from an assassination attempt outside his home on February 11.
He said Australian-led international forces could have immediately blockaded the city after the attack and captured the rebels before they escaped.
"They would have captured them within hours because for many hours after the attack on my house they were still in the hills around my house," he told ABC Television.
But Dr Ramos-Horta said he didn't feel anger towards Australian troops themselves. "No I don't," he said. "The Australian troops only act upon requests from United Nations."
Dr Ramos-Horta spoke of the attack itself, estimating he lay bleeding on the ground after being shot for half an hour, screaming for an ambulance.
"The gunman was there hiding near my gate and took aim at me," he said. "I was just lucky that as I saw him I turn around to run. That's why he didn't hit on my chest on the left side, he hit me on the back on the right side."
The gunman was just 10 metres away when he fired, Dr Ramos-Horta said. "I looked at his eyes, not friendly and he was determined to fire," he said. "That's why I turned to run and was hit."
Dr Ramos-Horta had lost four out of five litres of blood by the time he was transported to an Australian military hospital in Dili.
"Luckily the Australian young men and women in the defence force in Timor gave me a lot of blood," he said. "So I was saved by the Australian medics, doctors and nurses in Dili as well by the blood donated by Australian soldiers."
Dr Ramos-Horta said he believed the attack was an assassination attempt, rather than a failed kidnapping. He was confident East Timor would weather the upheaval.
"I think a lesson has been drawn from this that we must really step back from all violence," he said. "I cannot guarantee that there will be no further violence in the country, but I believe the vast majority of people are even more shocked today than ever before."
Dr Ramos-Horta is hoping to return to East Timor next month.
Reuters - March 28, 2008
Canberra – Australia on Friday strongly defended its military's response to an assassination attempt on East Timor's leadership after injured President Jose Ramos-Horta said they could have done more to capture his assailants.
Ramos-Horta was critically injured when he was shot twice in on Feb. 11, when gunmen loyal to rebel leader Alfredo Reinado launched early-morning attacks on the president and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao in Dili.
Now recovering in Australia's northern city of Darwin, where he was taken for medical treatment, Ramos-Horta said more of the rebels who tried to kill him could have been caught if Australia-led troops had immediately locked-down the capital Dili.
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said he had spoken to Ramos-Horta by phone in the past few days, and he defended the actions of Australia's military and its response to the attacks.
"I think our Australian forces handled this very effectively on the ground, I defend their absolute professionalism in how that was dealt with in very trying circumstances," Rudd told reporters in Washington.
"The fact that Jose was able to be got to the international medical facility at the Australian base in Dili so quickly, frankly is a large part of the reason why we were able to help Jose pull through."
Ramos-Horta told Australian Broadcasting Corp. television he lay bleeding on ground for 30 minutes after being shot, before being picked up by an ambulance which did not have a medic on board.
He said he was not angry about the Australian response, but said the Australian forces, under the United Nations command, could have done more to capture the attackers.
He said Australian medics and soldiers saved his life, giving him blood transfusions at an Australian military base before he was flown to Darwin for emergency surgery.
"I would say that Australian-led forces could have promptly surrounded the entire town, closing all the exits, using helicopter, sending immediately elements to my house to get the information on the ground," he said.
"They would have captured them within hours, because for many hours after the attack on my house they were still in the hills around my house."
Reinado was killed in the attack but other rebel soldiers managed to escape and many have still not been captured. Gusmao escaped unharmed from an attack on his car.
Australian Defence Minister Joel Fitzgibbon also defended the military response to the shooting. "Of course, the president was in no position really, at the time, to properly judge the timing," he told Australian radio on Friday.
East Timor, Asia's youngest nation has been unable to achieve stability since its hard-won independence from Indonesia in 2002.
The army tore apart along regional lines in 2006, when about 600 soldiers were sacked, triggering factional violence that killed 37 people and drove 150,000 from their homes.
Australia has about 1,000 troops and police leading an international force helping to keep order in the former Portuguese colony of about one million people.
| Health & education |
Cuban News Agency - March 21, 2008
The coordinator of the Luta Hamutuk non-governmental organization in East Timor, Mericio Akara, said on Thursday that Cuba is an example for the Third World in the field of cooperation.
"The Cuban people have showed that another society, based on social justice and in which the rights to education and health are respected, is possible," Akara told ACN.
After thanking Cuba for the contribution of the island's medical brigade in East Timor – where they have saved nearly ten thousannd lives in four years – Akara said that this help is an expression of the international solidarity among peoples defended by Commander Ernesto Che Guevara.
Akara also expressed his satisfaction at the work of the Cuban advisors of the literacy program 'Yo si puedo' (Yes, I Can) that will help his compatriots learn to read and write (almost 50% of the population in East Timor are illiterates). Currently, 11 Cuban teachers work with the local Education Ministry in that country to eliminate illiteracy.
On Wednesday, the new 190 members of the Ernesto Guevara Cuban medical brigade began their work in the 13 provinces and 65 municipalities of East Timor.
In all, the Cuban medical brigade there is comprised of 236 people who give free health care attention to the almost one million inhabitants of that country.
Granma International - March 14, 2008
Katia Siberia Garcia, Havana – Cuban doctors who fulfilled an internationalist mission in Timor-Leste arrived in Cuba on Thursday night, March 13, after two years in that South East Asian island nation. They were welcomed at Jose Martm International Airport by Jose Ramsn Balaguer, member of the Political Bureau and minister of public health.
Saving lives in the midst of frequent armed conflicts, providing more than two million consultations, creating a Faculty of Medicine where 148 Timorese doctors are being trained and contributing to bringing down the infant mortality rate were some of the many experiences and achievements of the 177 Cuban medical brigade members.
Roberto Fernandez Cordoves, head of the mission, told Granma that during the recent political crisis in Timor-Leste, the Cuban medical workers were the only ones to remain in the country, "which is why we are part of that country's history."
Balaguer expressed his admiration and respect for the internationalists, congratulating them especially for their complex and valiant labor of saving lives, even at the risk of their own.
[Translated by Granma International.]
Granma International - March 11, 2008
Dili – In a ceremony presided over by the interim president of the Republic of Timor-Leste, Fernando Lasama de Araujo, and Deputy Prime Minister Jose L. Guterres, along with ministers of foreign trade, Zacarias da Silva, and health, Nelson Martins, and Cuban Ambassador Ramsn Hernandez Vazquez, the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste bade farewell to the 177 Cuban doctors and medical personnel who have been carrying out their honorable mission in this South Asian country for more than two years.
The medical brigade is due to arrive in Cuba on March 13, after boarding the same airplane that is taking another Cuban health care contingent to Timor-Leste. Together with those that are to remain in the country, the new brigade is comprised of 237 Cuban internationalists, plus 35 teachers who are traveling there this month in order to continue running the national literacy campaign, which thus far has taught 3,500 Timorese how to read and write.
In his closing remarks at the moving ceremony, where all of the Cuban internationalists received a certificate from the country's authorities, the Timorese head of state thanked them personally and in the name of the Timorese people "for the effort, dedication and great help that Cuba has given us in friendship through you. I also welcome the new cooperators who will be arriving, and would like to use this opportunity to wish all of the Cuban people happiness and further progress."
For his part, Health Minister Nelson Martins said: "There are many communities that have asked us for the Cuban doctors to stay on longer, because their work has been very good. All of the Cuban medical personnel have won the confidence of the Timorese health professionals. I congratulate you all; the people of Timor-Leste love you."
[Translated by Granma International.]
| Police/military |
Melbourne Age - March 15, 2008
Stephanie March, Dili – East Timor's police and military have been accused of beating and torturing citizens since a state of emergency began following the February 11 attacks that left President Jose Ramos Horta wounded and rebel leader Alfredo Reinado dead.
Sources in Ermera district, close to where the remaining rebels are reportedly hiding, have complained of beatings by the military as the hunt for rebel leader Gastao Salsinha and his followers continues.
A report by the Ombudsman for Human Rights detailed eight separate incidents of beatings, unlawful detention and harassment by the police, known as the PNTL, and military, or FDTL, under the state of emergency, but sources from Parliament and police say the numbers are much higher.
In one incident from the report, a group of armed military police using four-wheel-drives with tinted windows and no registration plates chased a man through the capital, Dili, before assaulting him and dislocating his shoulder.
In another incident, a group of police reportedly entered a victim's house in Dili without an arrest warrant and kicked him in the stomach.
"There was no need to use such excessive force to arrest the individual. These actions show an abuse of power on the part of the authority, violating human rights during the state of siege," said the report.
The report comes as problems between the joint command and United Nations police begin to surface.
At Dili airport late last month, a group of FDTL military forced UN police at gunpoint to hand over a suspect they had brought by helicopter from the western enclave of Oecussi.
The Deputy Commissioner of the UN Police in East Timor, Hermanprit Singh, said the incident at the airport was unfortunate but was being investigated.
There have been other reports that UN police who have tried to stop beatings of innocent civilians by the PNTL have been threatened by PNTL officers.
A spokeswoman for the UN mission admitted they too were receiving complaints of human rights violations by police and military but she refused to elaborate.
The country's ombudsman, Sebastiao Dias Ximenes, compared the "mentality" of the East Timorese forces to that of the Indonesian police during their 24-year occupation of the island nation. "If I compare with Indonesian time, the police of Indonesian (are) better than our police – not worse but better," Mr Ximenes said.
The report also named the International Stabilisation Force, which comprises Australian and New Zealand troops, as inappropriately capturing people caught breaking the 10pm-6am curfew, but did not detail specific incidents.
The ISF are providing tactical and operational support to the 465 Timorese officers deployed to 30 checkpoints across the country as authorities wait for the remaining rebels to surrender.
Both East Timor's Police Commander, Alfonso De Jesus, and Commander of the ISF, Brigadier James Baker, refused to comment on the report's findings.
East Timorese MP Fernanda Borges, leader of the Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights, said Parliament had received more reports about aggressive behaviour and unlawful assaults, including intimidation. She had received reports from victims that security forces were using this opportunity to "settle old scores" that they might have had from the 2006 crisis or the resistance years.
Mr Ximenes said neither police nor military wore name tags on their uniforms, making it difficult for victims to identify perpetrating officers and near impossible to take disciplinary action.
Last month analysts expressed grave concern at the East Timorese Government's decision to merge the police and military under the same command for the period of the state of emergency, just two years after violence between sections of the two forces destabilised the country, leaving 37 dead and forcing 150,000 to flee their homes. International Crisis Group analyst Sophia Cason warned the merger could lead to a confusion of roles and powers.
The Australian - March 6, 2008
Bob Howarth – The independent daily Timor Post newspaper has had two formal apologies from senior government officials over violence against one of its editors during Dili's emergency curfew.
The curfew was imposed after assassination attempts against President Jose Ramos Horta and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao. Horta is recovering from bullet wounds in a Darwin hospital.
Layout editor Agustinho Ta Pasea was arrested and beaten by military police at 2am on February 22 while on his way to the printing plant with the paper's weekend edition on a disc. Timor Post editor-in-chief Mouzy Lopez said Ta Pasea was taken to a local police station and punched several times again in the head. He was released without charge after 11 hours and the newspaper's edition ran late.
The newspaper reported details of the bashing and Lopez commented: "This is something that should not happen in a democracy."
The Secretary for Internal Security, Francisco Guterres, offered the first government apology for the bashing.
Then last weekend, during the Timor Post's eighth anniversary celebrations, the invited guests included State Secretary for Defence Julio Tomas, who told staff he was shocked by the beating of Ta Pasea.
Lopez said he and his staff welcomed the two official apologies because they showed the East Timorese Government was committed to democracy.
| Book/film reviews |
The Australian - March 15, 2008
[Resistance: A Childhood Fighting for East Timor By Naldo Rei University of Queensland Press, 338pp, $34.95. Review by Sian Powell.]
Naldo Rei was nine or 10 when he crept into the hills on his first clandestine mission for the East Timorese guerillas. His father had just been killed by the Indonesian military and the boy was furious and despairing.
Asked to deliver a package of bullets and clothing to the Falantil guerillas, he set off early one morning and soon smelled the smoke of Indonesian soldiers' cigarettes. He knew that if he were caught his life would be forfeit. Calling on his ancestors' spirits, he successfully evaded the patrol and eventually delivered the package.
These days the casual reader may raise a quizzical eyebrow when asked to believe the tale of a child soldier who braved the enemy at an age when an Australian boy would barely be permitted to run to the corner shop. But Rei's story mirrors the blood-soaked history of his homeland, a place where few were spared and almost everyone was war fodder: children, pregnant women, the elderly, the infirm.
Born six months before Indonesia invaded East Timor in December 1975, Rei's first years were spent with his family in the jungle, hiding from the enemy. An easterner from a farming family, by 14 he had moved to the capital, Dili, to co-ordinate a network of clandestine couriers. He was at the Santa Cruz cemetery when the Indonesian military massacred dozens of his compatriots, a slaughter caught on film, which finally turned international opinion against the occupation.
He didn't see his mother for 16 years during the occupation. He was imprisoned at least 15 times and, according to his account, routinely tortured: his toenails crushed or pulled out, his ribs broken, his genitals electrically shocked.
Along the way he acquired a series of new names. The much-loved resistance leader Xanana Gusmao called him "Puto, Oan Kiak Funo": young son, orphan of war. The name Naldo Rei came from an East Timorese woman who cared for him in Dili and it means missing a mother's kisses. He also had several aliases for his underground work.
After spending some time in Jakarta, where he occupied the Dutch embassy on Gusmao's orders, he fled to Australia. The 1995 embassy occupation was a desperate attempt to publicise the oppression in East Timor and it was covered by the Western media. Rei was finally arrested and dragged away to South Jakarta police station.
In Australia, where Rei arrived as an asylum-seeker in 1997, life was easier. He learned English and made some firm friends. After the East Timorese voted for independence in 1999, Rei returned to a free nation, found his family and finally wound up working as a press attache for prime minister Mari Alkatiri.
According to the book's frontispiece, Rei has a masters in international communication from Sydney's Macquarie University, but if he wrote it unassisted he is obviously a language prodigy: the book is clearly and cleanly written, even though Rei did not begin to learn English until he was an adult.
Regardless of the niceties of the grammar, Resistance is a portrait of a brave and resourceful young man who was willing to risk his life time and time again during many of the bloody years that shaped a new nation. Resistance is the history of East Timor's liberation writ small, layered over Rei's extraordinary life.
Now the heady first days of independence are long gone and the tiny nation has been beset with a domino fall of disasters: civil strife, tent cities of refugees who refuse to shift, a locust plague, floods, drought and, most recently, the attempted assassination of leaders Gusmao and Jose Ramos Horta. Yet, despite everything, many East Timorese remain stubbornly positive, hoping for a brighter future: "Viva Timor Leste", as Rei might say.
[Sian Powell covered East Timor's transition to independence for The Australian and was the paper's Indonesian correspondent from 2003 to 2006.]
| Opinion & analysis |
Asia Pacific Times - March 2008
Henriette Sachse – The recent attacks on East Timor's president and prime minister are a severe setback on the path to democracy. They highlight the country's most urgent problems: poverty, high unemployment and an inadequate system of justice.
In its sixth year of independence, Timor-Leste's path to a stable democracy has, yet again, experienced a harsh setback: President Jose Ramos-Horta was shot and wounded in front of his house in Dili in the early morning hours of Feb. 11. One of the attackers, Major Alfredo Reinado, a former commander of the military police turned rebel, died in the exchange of fire with the president's security guard. The motorcade of Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao was attacked soon afterward, though he remained unhurt.
Gusmao, who called the incident a failed coup attempt, immediately declared a state of emergency and appealed to the population to remain calm. The international security force of nearly 2,500 has the situation under control and is working with the Timorese police; no riots have been reported so far. It remains unclear whether these incidents were in fact a coup attempt or a failed kidnapping.
A total of 17 arrest warrants were issued for the suspected participants in these attacks; they are in hiding and being sought by a special Australian unit. Acting President Fernando Lasama de Araujo has called on the rebels to surrender: "The assassination attempts against President Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Xanana closed the way to dialog," he said. "There is only one path now and that is... to submit themselves to justice."
On the one hand, these events come as a surprise. After the peaceful presidential and parliamentary elections last year, it seemed as though the country's 2006 crisis had been overcome. On the other hand, in recent months Reinado had repeatedly announced he would attack the government if his demands were not met. They included reintegrating all soldiers dismissed from the army in March 2006, as well as immunity from punishment for himself.
Reinado was involved in violent clashes between the military and the police in April and May 2006, sparked by protests over poor working conditions and promotion rules in the army. This situation led him to desert the military in early May but he was soon after captured again. Briefly imprisoned, he then escaped and fled into the mountains outside Dili. He became de facto spokesman for the dismissed soldiers, gave interviews to journalists and had been negotiating with President Ramos-Horta over the conditions for his capitulation since the end of last year. Whether those conversations were linked to the events of Feb. 11 remains unclear.
The incidents could rekindle discussions whether or not Timor- Leste is a "failing state." With respect to this young, post- conflict state, however, the debate seems wide of the mark.
First, the country's institutions are still being established, so it is inappropriate to pass judgment just yet on their performance. Since the 1999 referendum on independence from Indonesia and the subsequent devastation of the country by pro- Indonesian militias, investment has been primarily in infrastructure. Poverty, high unemployment and low education levels have not been successfully addressed.
Second, the international community was negligent in developing adequate or sufficient institutional and personnel capacities during the UN transitional administration (from 1999 to 2002) as well as during the subsequent, 'leaner' missions to Timor. To find fault only among the Timorese would be inappropriate, and too readily absolve the international community of its obligation to stay engaged over a longer time period. Therefore, the extension of the UNMIT mission for another 12 months by the Security Council on Feb. 25 is a promising sign.
Third, a learning process seems to have started in the political leadership with respect to addressing crises in a democratic manner. "The government has reacted in a very mature, sober and responsible manner," said Atul Khare, UN special envoy for Timor-Leste, after the attack on Ramos-Horta. "Decisions are being made according to the constitution and applicable laws of Timor-Leste. This was one of the challenges noticed by the International Special Commission of Inquiry, which was formed to look into the events of 2006."
However, the situation of Reinado does point to one of the most urgent problems in Timor-Leste: impunity from justice. The reasons for this lie in a weak judiciary, inadequate resources for the courts and the vested interests of certain politicians who, though they publicly call for a strengthened justice system, ignore it in practice. As a result, few criminals are actually prosecuted. Gangs of youths, for which Reinado has set an example, have repeatedly used violence. In the absence of sanctions, inhibitions against criminal behavior are substantially weakened. Additionally, criminal offences from the era of the referendum have yet to be fully addressed.
The UN has now revived a Serious Crimes Investigation Unit that ceased operations in 2005, in order to investigate 600 of the 1,300 killings carried out at the time. Because the courts are swamped with work, most of those so far indicted have been waiting years for their trials. The recommendations made in 2005 by the independent Commission for Reception, Truth and Reconciliation have been neither implemented nor even discussed in the legislature. This is regrettable, for they could help defuse deep-seated conflicts in Timorese society and strengthen the state's legal foundations.
[Henriette Sachse is a doctoral candidate at the Institute of Asian and Africa Studies at Humboldt University in Berlin, researching "Transitional Justice and Reconciliation in Timor- Leste."]
Canberra Times - March 17, 2008
Steven Sengstock – A month has passed since the death of Alfredo Reinado in a fire-fight at the home of East Timor's President Jose Ramos Horta. There has been no backlash from his supporters and in the past week many rebel soldiers have surrendered peacefully.
Nevertheless, the power Reinado might wield over the populace in death should not be underestimated. Reinado's many admirers helped him remain at large for almost two years, and it was they who helped him to appear suddenly and unexpectedly at Ramos Horta's front door.
They are the volatile, disenfranchised mass of East Timorese society who feel they can find neither voice nor representation in either the new Government of Xanana Gusmao or Mari Alkatiri's Fretilin opposition.
They are the young Timorese who, before Reinado's death, would draw you close and whisper, "Did you know Alfredo has very strong connections with the people of Manufahi? They say he's blessed with the spirit of Dom Boaventura."
Boaventura was the king, or liurai, of the Manufahi region in the rugged hills south of Dili. He died almost 100 years ago but his tenacious spirit lives on. He is the man many see as the father of East Timorese nationalism. In Timor there is an almost Arthurian sense of legend and mythology attached to his name. He is remembered as the archetypal Timorese warrior king in a country where archetypes rarely emerge from a complex cultural and ethno-linguistic puzzle.
Last year, just days before international troops launched their abortive attack on Reinado's hideout in the hills above the town of Same in Manufahi, rumours fanned out across the country that Reinado had been involved in a rare ritual ceremony. During the ceremony, presided over by Manufahi elders and described by some as a coronation, Reinado was said to have been endowed with the late Boaventura's supernatural powers.
Late in 1911, Boaventura had united many of East Timor's indigenous kingdoms in revolt against the repressive and exploitative Portuguese colonial administration. Employing guerrilla tactics akin to those used by Xanana Gusmao in the struggle against the Indonesian Army 70 years later, at one stage Boaventura came close to overrunning Dili.
But the military odds were against him and ultimately he was forced back into the remote hills around Manufahi. His resistance came to a dramatic and tragic end in August 1912.
Surrounded and besieged on a mountain top, Boaventura led a courageous breakout. On horseback at the head of his warriors he plummeted towards Portuguese lines in a charge that one awestruck historian described as "a great avalanche down the side of the mountain". The warrior king escaped, but most of his estimated three thousand followers did not. They were rounded up by the colonial forces and systematically slaughtered over two nights and two days of concentrated killing.
Boaventura led a people suffering the exploitation of a colonial administration whose true authority projected little outside of Dili.
Reinado, too, claimed to represent a growing population of youth and common folk disillusioned with a Government struggling to extend its judicial and administrative reach beyond the same city limits.
And just as Boaventura relied on the support of influential kingdoms in central and western East Timor, Reinado and his men, too, moved freely about the same regions.
Boaventura enjoyed far less support in the east of the country, and Reinado could not venture there for fear of death. Both were known for their daring escapes and, as legend would have it, were impervious to the bullets of foreigners.
Nonetheless, Reinado's early 2007 attempt to draw parallels between his plight and that of Boaventura invited heavy criticism.
Pointing to Reinado's part-Portuguese heritage, some said he was trying to appropriate a heroism and history that was not rightfully his. Others judged it a cynical manipulation of sacred traditional beliefs and memories with the objective of winning over an ill-informed and vulnerable support base.
In fact, for many in East Timor, there will be little to lament in the passing of the fast-talking, handsome rebel leader. From the chaos of East Timor's crisis of mid-2006, the former military police major emerged as a serious embarrassment to East Timor's Government and the international forces it had invited to stabilise the country.
By the time of his death Reinado had destroyed his relationships with almost all political factions, his notoriety growing with each of his anti-establishment stunts and daring escapes.
The innocent villagers who suffered from Reinado's destabilising presence in the mountainous interior will also have little to lament. Even in the western districts where Reinado was most popular, the arrogance and heavy-handedness of his men drew frequent complaints.
His rebellion placed an incalculable burden on the East Timor economy, causing fear-induced delays to development projects and distracting officials from the crucial mission of rebuilding the conflict-riven nation.
Boaventura's ultimate fate has never been established. The colonial record has him facing court proceedings in the years after his rebellion but has nothing clear to say about his death. Nor did foreign bullets bring Reinado down. By all accounts his escape from last year's assault on his base in the interior city of Same was nothing short of miraculous and, in the end, it was a Timorese bodyguard and Timorese bullets that killed him.
Ultimately, only in death may Reinado find a true parallel with the warrior king. Just as the name Boaventura is revered in far more corners of the country today than he could have hoped for in his day, so the spectre has now appeared of a Reinado who, despite his failings, may live even more vividly in popular memory than he ever did in real life.
[Steven Sengstock is a Masters candidate researching the history of East Timor in the Faculty of Asian Studies, ANU College of Asia and the Pacific.]
BBC News - March 10, 2008
A month on from the shooting of East Timor's President Jose Ramos-Horta, the BBC's Lucy Williamson reports on the government's handling of the crisis.
The camp holding the rebel soldiers is being run with military precision The road into the camp looks like any other – a wide, dusty road dotted with scrub.
Wire fences separate Dili's newest residents from their neighbours, and Australian soldiers stand guard at the gate. Inside, it has the restless, transitory feel of no-man's-land.
Not many governments would be delighted by the arrival in the capital of 600 rebel soldiers, but East Timor's leaders are counting this as one of their greatest achievements.
A month ago, the leader of these rebel soldiers – Alfredo Reinado – led an attack on the country's president and prime minister. Maj Reinado was killed in the attack, and the president seriously wounded.
The shooting shocked many of Mr Reinado's followers into coming back down to the capital and accepting the government's offer of negotiation.
The government also launched negotiations with Mr Reinado's two surviving deputies. One is now in custody in Dili, having surrendered. The other is rumoured to be close to doing the same. It all looks very different from the last time violence broke out in Dili.
In early 2006, half of East Timor's tiny army – 600 soldiers – had deserted, and then been sacked, after complaining of discrimination. The situation rapidly spiralled into near-civil war – 38 people died, 150,000 fled their homes, and the government was forced out of power.
Joint command
This time, things have played out differently. Negotiations seem to be working, and the government has stuck to the constitution and kept both the president and the parliament on board.
The prime minister's office is very pleased with itself. One of the things it is most proud of is the establishment of a joint command to handle the operation – bringing together the army, known as F-FDTL, and the police, the PNTL.
For the past few weeks, the two security forces have been working together to support and back up the negotiations in the field. This in itself is a miracle of sorts, according to political analyst Edward Rees.
"Eighteen months ago, PNTL high command and F-FDTL high command were situated 150 meters away from each other in their headquarters in the centre of Dili, exchanging gunfire," he explained. "Today they're demonstrating a level of co-operation which would have been unthinkable."
But he added a note of caution, saying the forces' problems were far from over. "PNTL and F-FDTL remain largely unreformed. They're still riddled with political differences, demonstrate poor discipline and neither is older than seven years old," Mr Rees said.
Skilfully handled
The need for reform of the security services became strikingly apparent when violence last broke out in 2006. Then, the army and police were fighting each other and political influence in the armed forces was laid bare, as was the lack of discipline among serving officers.
The current crisis has given the government a chance to resolve the issues left over from that crisis – to make peace with 600 of its former soldiers, for example, or to allow tens of thousands of internally displaced refugees to return home.
But it has also created a window of opportunity to make major reforms. With the threat from former rebels virtually neutralised, and the international forces still on the ground, many analysts believe now is the time to clean out the system.
Security sector reform has been a top priority for the new prime minister, Xanana Gusmao, but there does not seem to be much in the way of concrete plans to do it.
Part of the problem is that the judicial system itself is weak. And without independent courts to deal with infractions, any reform is bound to fail. To date, only four soldiers have been convicted for their part in the 2006 violence, and they were only taken into custody this week.
Will it be any different this time around? The government says it will prosecute all those accused of criminal acts during this crisis. But the acting president, Fernando de Araujo, hinted to the BBC that a presidential pardon for rebel leaders could not be ruled out.
"It's stated in the constitution that the president has the authority to give pardons," he said. "It's the president's right, and I think our president, Mr Ramos-Horta, has a big heart."
According to analyst Edward Rees, it is this collegiate atmosphere that makes it hard for the country to build strong independent institutions. As he put it, East Timor still works like a family rather than a nation.
"It's very difficult to impose an abstract conception of the rule of law upon a bunch of people who have emotional or sentimental attitudes towards each other," he explained. "Imagine what a small village is like in your own country, and imagine the role of the policeman in that village. He or she is not a policeman; they're more of a compromising negotiator."
The shooting of the president on 11 February could have spelt trouble for East Timor. Instead, the new government has handled the situation skilfully.
But it has been helped this time around by some useful developments, and unless it goes further in tackling the underlying problems of the country's institutions, there is no guarantee it will not face the same kind of situation again.
Red Pepper - March 5, 2008
Following the attack on East Timor president Jose Ramos Hortes, Carole Reckinger and Sara Gonzalez Devant report on the complexities surrounding the current crisis.
Two weeks ago, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) news and analysis service reported that Timor-Leste's quiescent security environment "breached only occasionally, as with two recent small explosions in Dili ... and the rare provocation by Alfredo Reinado ... is conducive for Timor-Leste to carry out its much needed reforms."
The report was published only hours before Timor-Leste's president Jose Ramos-Horta was shot and prime minister Xanana Gusmao ambushed on the morning of 11 February 2008. The president is recovering in a hospital in Australia, having regained consciousness after a ten day induced coma.
On the day of the attack a state of emergency was instated and arrest warrants issued against 17 people. Among them, Gastao Salsinha, reportedly in command of the defectors after their leader Alfredo Reinado, a former military police major, was killed during the attack on Ramos-Horta.
Incredulity and anger prevails in Dili
International forces dispatched to Timor-Leste to keep the peace have met with harsh criticism for their failure to prevent the attack. The incident has also triggered anger and distrust among the population. However, the significance of the attack does not lie in the security forces failings.
The assault on the supreme constitutional symbols – prime minister and president – the very heroes of the liberation struggle, lays bare Timor's national identity crisis. Not only because the country was so close to losing its icons but because it lost its newest icon in Alfredo Reinado. He was given a hero's burial in Dili, his coffin draped in the Timorese flag and, as BBC article reports, "his bearded face looked down defiantly from banners in a revolutionary pose that deliberately aped the portraits they used to host of Xanana Gusmao."
Military and police under a single command
In an attempt to catch Reinado's men East Timor's authorities have merged police and army under a single command. The underlying rationale that it is necessary to guarantee the adequate mobilisation of security and defence forces during the state of exception.
But the decision has sparked criticism. The lack of a clear separation between internal and external security may be fatal for the nascent security institutions and lead to tension as it did in 2006. Then, after the sacking of mutinous soldiers, rioting resulted in at least 37 deaths and the displacement of over 150,000 people.
The 2006 crisis and the breakdown of security forces In April 2006 Dili went up in flames after 600 soldiers protested against discrimination within the ranks of the newly formed Timorese army. The protesters, "or petitioners", were summarily dismissed. Clashes between elements of the national police force (PNTL) and the military (F-FDTL) led to a power vacuum and the breakdown of law and order across the country.
Neither the PNTL nor the F-FDTL had the trust of the population or the capacity to provide adequate security and order. Repeated allegations of sexual harassment, human rights violations, illegal weapons distribution and engagement in illicit trade weakened the public's confidence in the PNTL in particular. As the 2006 crisis demonstrated neither police nor military were politically neutral, both institutions fragmented due to mixed regional and political loyalties in the ranks, although ethnic and regional divisions had not previously been prominent in Timor-Leste.
With the collapse of the security sector and law and order in general, a multinational peacekeeping force was requested to restore order in late May 2006. Since then efforts have been made to resolve the multiple issues affecting both institutions, but reversing the breakdown is not a simple task.
Reinado, the symbol of a disillusioned Timor-Leste Reinado, one of the leaders of the mutineers, emerged from the 2006 crisis as a key player. His popularity is remarkable, even after apparently leading an attack on the two most prominent (living) heroes of the liberation struggle. A BBC report cautioned that "there is something worrying about the readiness of East Timor's young to pass the hero's mantle on to a man like Reinado, who took up arms against the government in the chaos of May 2006 and refused to lay them down. Reinado had nothing to offer East Timor except the continued idealisation of armed struggle as an alternative to the unglamorous task of building a country from very little."
But analysis such as the BBC's cites over-emphasises the institutional failings of the Timorese state and pays little attention to the role of popular perception in articulating the country's predicament. The crisis exists as much on the streets of Dili as it does at the state level. It is not quite as simple as glamour versus nation building. Nation building is a highly political moment, particularly after a major political crisis, and politics are key to Reinado's popularity. But to understand his popular appeal focus must shift away from the institutional context and to a major societal crisis that has been ongoing since 2006-internal displacement.
Internal displacement
The vast majority of the persons displaced during the 2006 crisis have not returned to their homes.
About 100,000 refugees remain in camps. Of these, 30,000 are in the capital Dili. To reduce camp populations and fearing some camps would become permanent, authorities decided to cut food rations in February 2008 with food aid ending completely by March 2008. But with the state of emergency this decision could not have come at a worse time.
Atul Khare, UN Special Representative for the Secretary General in Timor-Leste, has explained that resettlement is extremely complex, because it involves addressing land and property issues and community hostility. The UN humanitarian coordinator also said that "for many IDPs [internally Displaced People] it is simply not an option for them to return to their neighbourhoods as the people there don't want them back... Six thousand of their houses have been burned and only 450 transitional shelters have been built to date. There is nowhere to go back to."
The rise and fall of Alfredo Reinado
Reinado became a symbol of the disenfranchised – youths, the poor, veterans – and key to balancing peace in East Timor. Shortly after his arrest in 2006, he escaped from Becora prison along with 56 other inmates, later boasting that he waved at New Zealand soldiers as he left. In March 2007 the president at this time, Xanana Gusmao, sanctioned an Australian operation to capture Reinado after his men raided weapons from a police post. The operation resulted in several deaths but Reinado eluded capture, his popularity growing among Dili youths. He was able to represent the projected hopes of many of those for whom independence brought more disappointment and poverty.
Reinado was a liability but also bold and charismatic. His defiant messages to the authorities and vanishing acts made him a romantic figure that resonated with a generation that had lost its heroes. Journalist Max Stahl has likened him to Che Guevara, "a poster figure on laptops, and graffiti sketches around Dili."
While most media reports have been quick to qualify the attacks as a coup or assassination attempt, others are more cautious. The emerging theory is Reinado was losing his support base among the petitioners. It is likely the attack, increasingly rumoured to have been an attempted kidnapping rather than an assassination attempt or coup, was a pre-emptive move to prevent the impending defection of his support base.
There is a thin line between rumour, misinformation and premature conclusions as reported in the media. Observers have increasingly focused on the fact very little is known about what actually happened on the morning of the 11 February. As one blogger has observed, even of what little is known there are conflicting reports:
"I have heard/read 'Alfredo shot in a bedroom/shot at the front gate', 'shooting started at 6:50am versus Alfredo shot 30 minutes before the President', 'kidnap not assassination', 'PM Xanana knew nothing about what happened 40 minutes before/made fully aware', 'my cyclist friend [who warned the President of gun-shots when he was returning home from his morning exercise, moments before he was shot] has been elevated to diplomat but downgraded to jogger."
Reinado's popularity even after his death attests to a social reality that is quite different from what appears in the international media-the hero of the disenfranchised, rather than the outlandish renegade. Timor-Leste may have lost its most recent hero in Reinado but the nature of his achievements is perhaps more emblematic of Timor-Leste's youths' frustrations and loss of purpose.
[Sara Gonzalez Devant and Carole Reckinger are freelance writers who worked in Timor-Leste between 2005-2006.]
| East Timor media monitoring |
Print Coverage
Ramos-Horta accuses UN of being slow to catch armed group: The President of the Republic, Jose Ramos-Horta, has accused the UN of acting too slowly to go after the armed group that fled after attacking him at his residence on 11 February 2008. "The Australian Forces only take action according to commands issued by the UN," said Mr. Ramos Horta. (STL/Saturday).
75,000 veterans receive pensions: In the absence of any obstacles, the Government will begin in July 2008 to pay a pension to 75,000 veterans. This commitment by the Government was approved by the Council of Ministers last week. (STL)
Motael IDP are hesitant to return home if illegal guns are not collected: The IDPs from the Motael Church camp have voiced their doubts over returning to their suburbs, claiming that the Government has focused all its attention on capturing members of the rebel group and has forgotten about the illegal guns distributed in 2006. (STL)
51 Donors ready to support the Government: The Prime Minister, accompanied by the Minister of Finance, Ms. Emilia Pires, said that 51 donor countries have given positive signs that they will collaborate together to resolve the six priority areas identified by the Government in the National Priority Programme. "Most of the donors attending the meeting have expressed their wish to support Timor-Leste," said Minister Pires.(TP)
Rudd defends the actions of Australian troops: Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has defended the actions of Australian soldiers following the attack against President Ramos-Horta. Mr Rudd made these comments in response to the recent criticisms made by the President against the ISF for their late action in responding to the attacks made by the rebel on 11 February. (TP)
Xanana - Joint Operation Command will discuss deadline for Salsinha: The Prime Minister has said that the Government will call the Joint Operation Commander soon to discuss the deadline for the surrender of Gastao Salsinha and his group. (TP)
Donors criticise government programme: On the second day of the Timor-Leste Development Partners Meeting (28/03), donors criticised the AMP Government programme, arguing that the programs presented by Government are too ambitious.
"Some donor countries have criticised the Government Programme presented during the discussion as being far too ambitious. They doubt that there can be full implementation of all these programs," said the Minister of Foreign Affairs. (DN)
Atul Khare Congratulates AMP Government: The United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary General, Mr. Atul Khare, congratulated the AMP Government for their successful meeting with the development partners. "I encourage Donors to continue their support to Timor-Leste. I also wish the Government to continue to develop its initiatives and programmes in order to help create positive change in the lives of the East Timorese people," said Mr. Atul Khare. (DN)
TVTL News Coverage
Lasama asks PNTL to be impartial: The Acting PR, Fernando de Araujo Lasama has asked the PNTL to be impartial in order to better serve the people. "It is very important for the PNTL to maintain law and order as the number one priority. It is now time to learn, and one day the time will be to serve," said Mr Lasama.
The Acting President also said that the PNTL institution does not belong to one person, or to one group, but is there for all people, and that this institution should provide protection for all.
"I would like to thank the PNTL and F-FDTL, which are led by both Acting Commander of the PNTL Afonso de Jesus and Brigadier- General Taur Matan Ruak. During the Apprehension Operation, you have shown your dedication and sense of responsibility," he said.
RTL News Coverage
PM asks PNTL to strengthen national unity: "Strengthening the spirit and professionalism within the PNTL institution will help maintain unity," said Prime Minister Gusmao.
"There is still a long way to go, but I believe that through the PNTL's improvement programs, the officers will make an effort to improve their service to the nation," said the PM. "The Government also believes that the PNTL will continue to work together with UNPOL to professionalism."
The PM also said that the Government would always ask for the presence of UNPOL here in Timor Leste. The PM further stated his happiness with the way the F-FDTL and PNTL have worked together recently despite the problems they have faced in the past.
Print Coverage
President Jose Ramos Horta blames woman for influencing Alfredo: President Jose Ramos Horta has said that a woman with the initials AP had influenced Alfredo Reinado to commit the assassination attempt against him. The President strongly believes Alfredo was the target of great manipulation and influence.
During an interview with the Australian newspaper, The Age, the President explained how he was wounded by one of Alfredo's men. "I could see the face of Alfredo's man who shot me. I was shot twice in my back. I would have died immediately if I had been shot in my chest," said Horta. Horta who is now under medical treatment in Darwin Hospital and says that he wants answers to many questions, including why the international security forces, led by the ISF, did not immediately hunt the rebels down and why the United Nations did not immediately provide assistance to him. (TP)
Ximenes unaware of letter requesting Rogerio's return: The President of the Court of Appeals, Claudio Ximenes, has said that he was unaware of a letter sent by the Ministry of Justice to the Court to get an authorization order to send Rogerio Lobato back to Timor-Leste from Malaysia. "I don't know anything regarding this letter from the Ministry of Justice and I have no understanding of it. It would be better to ask Rogerio's lawyer," said Mr Ximenes. (STL)
Eight Anniversary of PNTL: The National Police of Timor-Leste this Thursday (27/03) celebrated its eighth-year anniversary. Within these 8 years, the institution has both walked through and on thorns. "We celebrate your anniversary day in a time of many difficulties, I would like to congratulate the PNTL," said The Acting PR, Fernando de Araujo 'Lasama'. (STL)
Timor-Leste is not a failed nation: The Acting President of Republic, Fernando de Araujo 'Lasama', has claimed that last years crisis is not an indication that Timor-Leste is a failed nation. "From the Government side, we are conducting a study on security reform. Timor-Leste is not a failed state," said Mr Lasama during his speech at the PNTL anniversary. (STL)
13 donors ready to support Timor-Leste development: Thirteen countries who participated in the Timor-Leste Development Partnership Meeting have declared their commitment to support Timor-Leste's development. "The aim of the meeting was for the Timor-Leste government to present its programme to donor countries," said the Minister for Economy and Finance, Ms. Emilia Pires. (DN)
PNTL should improve itself: Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao has said that the PNTL should accept criticism in order for it to improve and to gain public confidence. "Maintain the spirit and professionalism in your corps and unit present here. You still have a long journey ahead of you to trust and make changes inside the PNTL," said the Prime Minister. (DN)
ISF regrets MPs comments: ISF Commander James Baker regrets the comments made by one MP that the ISF failed to take immediate action to arrest the suspects involved in 11 February attack and that the ISF prevented the medical team from assisting the President. "These comments are not based in fact whatsoever. At that time, the ISF provided assistance after the President was injured and brought the President to the ISF clinic at the Heliport for further treatment," said the Commander. (DN)
TVTL News Coverage
Prime Minister presents report on State of Siege: Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao has presented a report on the State of Siege to the National Parliament. MPs claimed that the report showed the reality of what is happening in the country. The report included information on the assassination attempts against the President and Prime Minister, the Apprehension Operation and the current situation.
However, Fretilin MP Fransisco Miranda Branco is still asking the United Nations to create an independent investigation in order to clear up any suspicions/mysteries still lingering in the public mind. MP urges Chief Justice to report to National Parliament: PUN MP, Fernanda Borges, has urged the Director of Justice and Human Rights to report to the National Parliament on exactly how many cases have been received during the State of Siege. Borges is insisting on this, claiming the Director has received many cases from the victims during the State of Siege.
Print Coverage
James Baker says a formal investigation is needed: ISF Brigadier-General James Baker has said that a formal investigation is needed to find out the events before, after and during February 11. "It is being commonly accepted by the public that the attacks on 11 February just happened. Unfortunately the incidents could not have been predicted, nor did we have information that it would happen" (TP)
104 families register in MSS: The Coordinator of the Ministry of Social Solidarity for the Eastern Region, Domingos Martins, has confirmed that 104 families have registered in the Ministry of Social Solidarity in order to receive subsides from the Government. "MSS has also registered the people whose houses were burnt and destroyed during the last crisis in the district of Baucau, Lautem and Viqueque," said Mr Martins. The Government has provided 3 options for the families to choose from: (a) To return to their homes in Dili; (b) To move to another place; and (c) To remain in the districts. Sixty-one families have chosen option A and 21 families have opted for C. No one selected option B. (TP)
Fretilin demands government form commission of inquiry: Fretilin MP Fransisco Miranda Branco has demanded that the Government form an International Commission of Inquiry to investigate the events of February 11. "Bishop Basilio do Nacimento has said that the assassination attempts against the President and Prime Minister on February 11 remains a mystery. Therefore, Fretilin demands that the Government form a Commission of Inquiry in order to clear up any mysteries." Said Mr Branco. (DN)
MP asks police not to intervene in politics: Fretilin MP Inacio Morreira said that the government totally forbids police to be involved in politics as politics is only for the politicians. Police are just entitled to act as they are commanded to by their institution. (DN)
Two of Salsinha's men receive a preventive prison: Two of Salsinha's men have received preventive prison after a hearing in the Dili court. One of the men is suspected on being involved in the assassination attempts against the Prime Minister and the President and the other men suspected of involvement in the events of May 23, 2006. (STL)
Minister says 5000 IDPs have returned home: The Minister of Social Solidarity, Maria Domingas Fernanda Alves 'Mikato,' has said that 5000 of the 200,000 original IDPs camped in 53 locations in Timor-Leste have returned to their homes, and that the rest are being processed.
The government has also vowed to clean all the camps by the end of the year. "We hope that by the end of the year, all Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) will be home and that there will be no more IDPs in the country," said Sra. Mikato.
During the time that this Government has been in office, all efforts have been made to return the IDPs to their homes. As such, $200.000 USD was approved by the National Parliament to help solve the IDP Problem. The Government will provide between $1500 – $4.500 USD for each family whose house has been destroyed. (STL)
TVTL News Coverage
One of Salsinha's men surrender: One of Salsina's men, Alexandre de Araujo, has voluntarily surrendered himself to the East Timorese authorities through the Prosecutor-general, Longuinhos Monteiro, in Maubesi, Ainaro District on Tuesday (25/3). He did not surrender a weapon. The man was presented to Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao, Brigadier General, Taur Matan Ruak and the State Secretary for Defence, Julio Pinto at the Government Palace.
NZ Defense Minister meets Lasama: The Defence Minister of New Zealand, Phill Goff, has met the Acting President of Timor-Leste, Fernando de Araujo 'Lasama,' to discuss the relationship between the two nations and how to strengthen security, development and democratic governance. During the meeting Mr. Goff said the NZ Government will send advisors to assess the Defense Force reform in Timor Leste and will provide logistic and weapon's training to the East Timor Defense Forces.
94 IDP families from Has Laran return home: Ninety four IDP families who were residing at the Canossa Has Laran Camp have returned to their home in Delta and Manleuana, Dili on Tuesday (25/3) after having their data verified by the Ministry of Social Solidarity. The families were happy to return home as their communities have agreed to receive them.
Print Coverage
One of Salsinha's men surrender: One of Salsina's men, Alexandre de Araujo, has voluntarily surrendered himself to the state through the Prosecutor General, Longuinhos Monteiro in Ainaro District on Monday (25/3). The man was presented to Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao, Brigadier-General Taur Matan Ruak and the Secretary State for Defense, Julio Pinto at the Government Palace. Alexandre had been with Gestao Salshina since 2006.
Meanwhile, The Prosecutor-General said that three other members were supposed to surrender together, but were not able to meet each other to do so. "Three other members were supposed to surrender today with Alexandre but they failed to do so. I believe that they will surrender themselves voluntarily in a very short time," said the Prosecutor-General. (TP, STL).
NZ Defense Minister meets Acting PR: The Defense Minister of New Zealand, Phill Goff, met the Acting PR of Timor-Leste, Fernando de Araujo 'Lasama' to discuss the relationship between Timor- Leste and New Zealand. The meeting was aimed at discussing security, development and democratic issues in Timor-Leste.
Mr Goff also met Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao to discuss the bilateral cooperation between the two nations. At the meeting, Mr. Goff said that the NZ Government will support the security sector reform by sending advisors to asses the defense forces in Timor-Leste and to provide some armed and logistics training to the East Timor Defense Forces. (STL, TP)
Commission formed to review the condition of Petitioners: The Acting President of the National Parliament, Visente Guterres, said that the National Parliament will form a commission to assess the lives of the petitioners currently gathered in Aitarak-Laran. "It is a necessary to form a commission to review the condition of the petitioners in order to find a solution to their problems" said Mr Guterres on Tuesday (25/3) at the National Parliament (TP).
Minister asks UN Delegation to provide training for justice sector: During a meeting between the Government and the UN Delegation, the Minister of Justice, Lucia Lobato asked the UN for assistance to help strengthen the justice sector. "We recommended that the UN should work with the Government of Timor-Leste to provide training for Timorese prosecutors and public defenders so that they can act with full professionalism in dealing with justice issues in the future," Minister Lobato on Tuesday (25/3) at Palacio do Governu, Dili. (TP)
Gusmao - police reprimanded over abuses: The Prime Minister, Xanana Gusmao said some members of the police force have been reprimanded over human rights violations committed during the State of Siege. "The present government does not tolerate people violating the human rights of people," said the PM. (DN)
Fretilin asks ISF to explain February 11 events: Fretilin MP, Fransisco Miranda Branco, has asked the ISF to provide an explanation for the attacks against the President and the Prime Minister on 11 February. "The presence of ISF in Timor Leste is legal. Therefore, I ask the ISF Commander-General to clearly explain to the national parliament the assassination attempts against the President and Prime Minister, because the responsibility for security falls under the Government, UNPOL and ISF," said Branco. (DN)
TVTL News Coverage
MPs absent with no justification: Related to the unjustified absence of certain members of the National Parliament, the Vice President of the National Parliament, Maria Paixao, has appealed to all MPs to retain their credibility as the peoples' representative. "Previously some of us actively criticized other MPs, but right now they are doing what they were criticizing," said Ms. Paixao.
Separately, Democratic Party MP, Teresa Carvalho, said that some MPs were not turning up to the National Parliament and were getting other MPs to sign in for them. "Some of the MPs are absent, but are still being signed in by other MPs so that they can receive their full monthly salaries," said Ms Carvalho on Monday (24/3) in Dili.
UN representatives to work with TL Gov in security areas: A United Nations Delegation [DPKO] held a meeting with the F-FDTL Commander Brigadier General Taur Matan Ruak to discuss security sector reform in Dili. "We discussed the reform of the security sector. The UN should work with the Government of Timor-Leste to achieve this reform by providing and developing training for the future of security sector of this country," said Commander Taur Matan Ruak on Monday (24/3) in the Memorial Hall, Dili.
RTL News Coverage
95 IDP Families of Canossa Has Laran camp return home: Ninety five IDP families who were residing at the Canossa Has Laran Camp returned home today (Tuesday, 25/3) after having their data verified by the Ministry of Social and Solidarity. The families are still waiting to receive the Government's recovery funds. The Ministry of Social and Solidarity will review its policy on the recovery fund as some IDPs have misused their funds by using the money to throw farewell parties rather than using it to rehabilitate their homes.
Joint Operation conducts community dialogue: The Commander of the Dili District PNTL, Pedro Belo, said that the community dialogue conducted by the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation in Dili has had a good effect and has supported field operations. According to Commander Belo, community leaders have proposed to conduct such dialogue around the country to create stability. He also said that the dialogue has forced illegal occupants out of houses belonging to IDPs and that local people are ready to welcome the IDPs back to their Bairo.
Print Coverage
Hercules rejects accusations of involvement in February 11: Timorese businessman, Hercules Rosario Marcal, has strongly rejected accusations that he may be investigated in relation to the events of February 11. Hercules has denied any involvement in the events.
Hercules said that he had visited Timor-Leste to look for investment opportunities. "I just laughed when I heard on the news that a politician had mentioned my name in relation to attempts made against PR Horta and PM Xanana. It"s funny. I am a citizen of Indonesia even though I am a Timorese ... how could I have bad intentions like that?" said Hercules on Monday (24/3). The politician mentioned is the President of the Social Democratic Party (PSD), Mario Viegas Carrascalao, who had previously stated that the inquiry into February 11 may be broadened to investigate many people, including Hercules.
Hercules said that he would only take the statement seriously if it came from the State of Timor-Leste. "If this is the statement of the Government or PM Xanana Gusmao or PGR Longuinhos Monteiro, then I will be concerned ... however this is just from a politiciaan," said Hercules.
Separately, the Indonesian Embassy in Timor-Leste said that it is too early to determine Hercules' involvement in the February 11 events. "I think it is too early to conclude this. If Hercules becomes a target of the Prosecutor General for investigation, then this may be considered, but until now it is still just a rumour," said Vitor Josep Sambuaga, the Second Secretary of Foreign Political Affairs. (TP)
TL presents 6 priorities for Donor's meeting: The Government of Timor-Leste will present six areas of priority to countries during the Donor meeting to support Timor-Leste held on 28-29 March 2008 in Dili. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Zacarias Albano da Costa, said that the six priorities include infrastructure, youth support, support to IDPs, petitioners and social packages. Minister Zacarias said that the Donor meeting will be held in the new office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Pantai Kelapa, Dili. (TP)
Bishop Basilio - negotiations with rebels makes a fool of State of Siege: The Bishop of Baucau Diocese, Basilio do Nascimento has criticised the State of Siege, arguing that it is pointless to have a State of Siege if the State is still looking to negotiate with Salsinha. "We established a State of Siege in order to be able to capture Sasinha, and then we go about trying to negotiate with him. With a situation like this, I seriously question the credibility of the State," said the Bishop. The Bishop made these comments in reference to the meeting held between the Prosecutor General Longuinhos Monteiro and the rebel groups of Alfredo and Salsinha on Thursday (20/3) in Baucau. The Bishop further said that it is a dangerous situation if the leaders responsible for justice act in this manner. (TP)
Gov gives importance to IDPs and petitioners for Donor meeting: The Minister of Foreign Affairs Zacarias Albano da Costa said that the Government of Timor-Leste has prepared six important points to be presented to donor countries during the meeting held in Dili. According to Minister Zacarias, the meeting will determine what areas of the nation's development will be supported by the donors. (STL)
State of Siege unnecessary: The Social Democratic Party (PSD) MP Mario Viegas Carrascalao has taken a strong stance against the decision of the Government to extend the State of Siege to western districts and to impose a State of Emergency on the eastern districts. According to Mr Carrascalao, these extensions diminish the credibility of the nation. "I do not agree with a State of Siege just to allow the State to pursue the rebels," said Mr. Carrascalao. Mr. Carrascalao has also asked Salsinha and his group not to waste time by waiting for the arrival of President Ramos-Horta to surrender.
Separately, Democratic Party MP, Vital dos Santos, has argued that a State of Siege is usually implemented when a nation in threatened by outside forces. He suggested that the Government could still mandate the PNTL and F-FDTL to purse Salsinha and his group without imposing a State of Siege. Meanwhile, Fretilin MP, Arsenio Bano, said that even though this is the fourth State of Siege, the Government has still been unable to prove who was behind the events of February 11. (STL)
Defence Minister of NZ visits Timor-Leste: The Defence Minister of New Zealand, Phill Goff, is visiting Timor-Leste to discuss the relationship between Timor-Leste and New Zealand. Mr Goff will also visit the New Zealand troops on duty within the International Stabilization Forces. Mr Goff will meet Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao to discuss the relationship between the two nations in the areas of defence and security. There are 150 New Zealand soldiers currently deployed in Timor-Leste. (STL)
RTL News Coverage
Lasama announces extension of 'State of Siege' and 'State of Emergency': Acting President Fernando Lasama de Araujo has officially declared that a State of Siege is to be extended to the Districts of Aileu, Ainaro, Manufahi, Covalima, Bobonaro, Liquica and Ermera. PR Lasama said that the decision was taken upon the request of the Government and with the authorization of the National Parliament.
President Lasama said that after consulting with the Defence and Security Council, the decision was taken to extend the State of Siege to the districts for 30 days. "During the State of Siege, the right of people to gather and hold meetings is temporarily suspended," said PR Lasama.
PR Lasama has also decided to implement State of Emergency in the districts of Baucau, Dili, Lospalos, Viqueque, Manatuto for a period of 30 days. Oecusse and the Dili sub-district of Atauro will have neither a State of Siege nor State of Emergency as they are not considered security risks. The State of Siege and State of Emergency will be implemented from March 23 to April 22, 2008.
The Democratic Party MP, Adriano de Nascimento, has accepted the implementation of the State of Siege and Emergency in support of the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation. However, Fretilin member of NP, Francisco Brancos said that the State of Siege has taken too long and is exposing the weaknesses of the State. He even suggested that this may put the nation on the path to dictatorship. However, Fretilin is continuing to support the Joint Operation.
On this, ASDT has asked the Government to give extra attention to the actions of the Joint Operation as they fear some members may take advantage of their position to settle personal grievances.
Rebels surrender with their weapons in Maubisse: Four rebels have surrendered themselves and their weapons to the Chief of the State [PM Gusmao] along with their weapons on Saturday (22/3) in Maubisse, Ainaro District. Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao said that this action by the rebels is very positive and will go a long way to resolving the problems faced in the country. One of the rebels, Paulo Neno, said that he feels that he has contributed to the justice process by surrendering.
PM - Joint Operation slow to get results in attempt to avoid death and trauma: In answer to the criticisms leveled at PM Gusmao by MPs that the Joint Operation has not produced any results, the PM has responded that the Joint Operation has been slow to obtain results as they have attempted to avoid unnecessary deaths or cause trauma to the public. However, the PM confirmed that the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation would be in full military force after Easter to capture outstanding rebels.
Related to accusations that Joint Operation members have conducted themselves irresponsibly, the Prime Minister said that people should report such actions to the authorities in order for them to be investigated.
Print Coverage
Lasama - Attempts against State greatest crime: In a dialogue with the population of Lete-Foho, Ermera, Acting President Fernando Lasama de Araujo said that the attempts against the State made by the rebel groups of Alfredo Reinado and Gastao Salsinha can be considered as the greatest crime and should be resolved through the court system. President Lasama has appealed to the public to help convince Salsinha and other rebels to surrender. Related to the rumours that Alfredo's death was the result of a foreign-led conspiracy, PR Lasama said that the only people responsible were Timorese. "Never falsify and blame others. All the mistakes are ours and it's time to solve these problems," said PR. Lasama. (TP)
Four rebels surrender: The positive impacts of PR Ramos-Horta's appeal on Wednesday (19/3) to Salsinha and his group were felt on Saturday (22/3) with the surrender of four rebels and their weapons to the state through the Prosecutor General, Longuinhos Monteiro. The surrenders were a good step towards resolving the issue and it a step that Salsinha should also take. Salsinha once said that he will only surrender once PR Horta returns to Timor- Leste- this is Salsinha's right, but as PR Horta may still need to be in Darwin for a long time, Salsinha may need to rethink his decision. We cannot know his mind. The whole matter rests on Salsinha. As the PM once said, it is Salsinha's decision whether to surrender, or die. (TP)
Lasama asks public to convince Salsinha to surrender: The Acting PR, Fernando de Araujo 'Lasama,' has asked the people of Lete- Foho to convince Salsinha to surrender, if they know where he is currently hiding. (DN)
TMR to pay close attention to soldiers who torture people: The Apprehension Operation's General-Commander, Brigadier-General Taur Matan Ruak, has asked the public to report any cases of violations or torture from soldiers under the Joint Command. "Any of the victims who receive such treatment from the soldiers should report their case to the police so that the cases can be investigated and not just publicized thorough the Media," said TMR on Wednesday (19/3) at Palacio da Cinzas, Dili. (DN and STL)
Lieutenant Colonel Filomeno Paixao says Apprehension Operation will not kill Salsinha: Lieutenant Colonel Filomeno Paixao has said that the Apprehension Operation currently operating in Lete-Foho, Ermera, is not out to kill Salsinha and his men, but to convince them to surrender. "The Apprehension Operation forces consider Salsinha and his men as brothers and not enemies, because they also contributed to the independence of this nation. Therefore we are here to call Salsinha and his men to surrender and submit themselves to justice," he said. (DN)
Four of Salsinha's men surrender: Four of Gastao Salsinha's men have surrendered themselves along with one machine gun and two AK33 rifles. The men were received by the Prosecutor-General, Longuinhos Monteiro in Maubesse sub district on Saturday (16/3). The men were also presented to the Prime Minister, Xanana Gusmao, and Brigadier-General Taur Matan Ruak at the Government Palace. (DN)
Government and Timor Energy work together to build houses for IDPs: The Secretary of State for Solidarity and Natural Disasters, Rigoberto Gomes, said that the Government is currently working together with Timor Energy to provide 416 transitional houses for IDPs currently living at the compound of the National Hospital. "These houses are now ready for the IDPs. This is a temporary solution until their problems can be resolved," he said. (DN)
'Lasama' visits Lete-foho sub-district, Ermera: The Acting PR, Fernando de Araujo 'Lasama' has visited the Apprehension Operation forces in Lete-foho sub-district, Ermera on Saturday (22/3). The visit was aimed at seeing directly the conditions of the Apprehension Operation forces based in Lete-foho and to also listen to the community about the Apprehension Operation. "My objective here is to listen and see directly what people think about the Apprehension Operation during this time. It seems that there has been good collaboration and good cooperation among the operation and the community," he said. (STL)
Justice Minister and State Secretary of Defence sign Accord to establish military prison: The Minister of Justice, Lucia Lobato, and the State Secretary of Defence, Julio Tomas Pinto, have signed an Accord regarding the establishment of a military prison in Timor-Leste. "I would like to inform the public that starting from now if our military commits crimes they will be imprisoned in the military prison. The military prison is established following the cases of violence committed by the F-FDTL in 2006," said Minister Lobato.
The State Secretary of Defence, Julio Tomas Pinto, said that the military prison is currently based in the F-FDTL HQ in Tasi Tolu, Dili and that four F-FDTL members are imprisoned there. "According to the mandate of the constitution, we do need to establish the military prison in our country," said Mr Pinto. (TP)
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Ramos-Horta appeals to Salsinha and his group to surrender: PR Jose Ramos-Horta has said it's time for Salsinha and his group to surrender in order to contribute to the stability of the nation. "To Mr. Salsinha and his group, please surrender and submit your weapons," said PR Horta.
TMR appeals to people to report abuses: F-FDTL Commander Brigadier-General Taur Matan Ruak is encouraging members of the public to report any cases of abuse committed by the Joint Operation. "We are ready to receive any reports from any of the victims if they have been tortured by the soldiers, so that the cases can be investigated and not just publicized through the media," said TMR on Wednesday (19/3) at Palacio da Cinzas, Dili.
RTL News Coverage
Horta appeals to F-FDTL and PNTL to guarantee nation's security: PR Jose Ramos-Horta has appealed to the F-FDTL and the PNTL to cooperate together to guarantee the security of the country. The President said that crises within these institutions impacts gravely on civilians. "I ask the F-FDTL and PNTL to continue working hand in hand. The 2006 crisis was caused by these two institutions. Some escaped with weapons and they were killing each other. This should not happen again. Timor-Leste is only one. Not two or three. There is no west and east. Those who use west and east to divide Timor-Leste are those who do not want peace in this country," said PR Horta. PR Horta also thanked the state, government and international agencies in Timor-Leste who prayed for his recovery.
PR Ramos-Horta appeals to Salsinha and his group to surrender: President Ramos-Horta has appealed to Salsinha and his group to surrender to the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation. He said that if they did not surrender, they would lose their rights. "If we want to kill or hurt people and burn houses, we lose everything. So I ask Mr. Salsinha and his members to submit themselves along with their weapon to face justice. The only way for them is surrender," said PR Horta.
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Fretilin does not accept state of siege: One of the members of the Fretilin party, Fransisco Miranda Branco, said Fretilin party's members did not vote for the Stage of Siege which has been approved by the AMP in the National Parliament because of the negative impact it will have on the liberty of people.
"Fretilin members will not vote for the extension of the "State of Siege" to a "State of Emergency" because it will have a huge impact on the nation's economy and reduce citizens' fundamental liberties," said Branco on Wednesday (19/3) in the National Parliament, Dili. However, the Fretilin party is continuing their support for the Apprehension Operation which is being carried out by the PNTL and F-FDTL. (STL)
Brigadier-General Taur Matan Ruak asks people to report their cases to the police: The Apprehension Operation's General- Commander, Brigadier-General Taur Matan Ruak, said people should report their cases to the police if they are abused by soldiers so that the commander can take action. "We are ready to receive any reports from any of the victims if they are tortured by the soldiers, so that the cases can be investigated, not just to publicized thorough the media," said Matan Ruak on Wednesday (19/3) at Palacio da Cinzas, Dili. (STL)
In the eyes of the National Parliament, PNTL are not Professional: In the eyes of members of the National Parliament, PNTL are not professional. Therefore, the National Parliament has recommended that the United Nations provide more training for the PNTL so that they can become more professional. The recommendation was made during the meeting with a group of experts from the UN's Department of Peacekeeping Operations.
Meanwhile, the first Vice-Acting President of the National Parliament, Maria Paixao, said to the journalists that during the meeting, the members of National Parliament also asked members of the United Nations Police from 41 countries in Timor Leste to respect East Timorese traditions.
"It is not easy for the people of 41 countries in Timor Leste to understand and respect the culture of Timor-Leste. Therefore as representatives of the Timorese in the National Parliament, we ask the United Nations to train them before they enter the country," said Paixao on Wednesday (19/3) in the National Parliament, Dili. (STL)
Julio Pinto has accused foreigners of meddling in national politics: The State Secretary for Defence, Julio Pinto, has said that government has a list of people who have meddled in the country's internal politics. Mr Pinto said that he is currently trying to find more information on these foreigners. "We already have a list. Now we are trying to find more information on these foreigners who are involved in the political situation in Timor Leste so that they can be submitted for an investigation," said Mr Pinto. (TP)
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NGOs demand government to stop TFC: Twenty four NGOs have sent a petition letter to the National Parliament to stop the Truth and Friendship Commission (TFC) of Indonesia/Timor-Leste because they believe it has proved ineffective in bringing the criminals to justice or for providing reparations to the victims. The petition of the NGOs also said that the international community is aware that over 180,000 people were killed by the Indonesian army. The NGOs stated that they will not tolerate anyone who wants to eliminate justice in Timor-Leste. "We believe that the TFC is a political tool for leaders to create impunity for the criminals," said the petition. The NGOs are also demanding that the National Parliament and Government reject the recommendations of the TFC report as it does not reflect the judicial principles of Timor- Leste.
Government asks President to change 'State of Siege': The Government has asked the Acting President of the Republic to change the "State of Siege" to a "State of emergency". They have asked this as Easter is approaching.
RTL News Coverage
Joint Operation to change tactics: The Commander of the F- FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation, Lieutenant Colonel Filomeno Paixao, said that Joint Operation Command is recommending the Government to change the modality and tactics of the operation. Commander Paixao said that the new modality and tactics of the operation will be used to force Salsinha and his group members to surrender. "We suggest the Government change the tactics of the operation with new tactics to be implemented in the field. This is a military activity," said Commander Paixao on Tuesday (18/3) at a press conference held in Memorial Hall in Dili. Commander Paixao also suggested the Government extend the 'State of Siege' as it has impacted positively on the security of the nation.
Print Coverage
PGR lost legitimacy in rebel case: Fretilin has strongly criticized the Prosecutor General of the Republic Longuinhos Monteiro for losing his legitimacy to bring Salsinha to court as he has violated the nation's constitution by negotiating with Salsinha. Fretilin member, Joaquim dos Santos, said that PGR has dishonoured the constitution through his negotiations with the rebels. Separately, Democratic Party (PSD) member of NP Adriano Nascimento said that each of competent organs in this country has its own interpretation about the current situation, and about Salsinha in particular.
"I would like to say that each organ of the country has its own concept and interpretation of how to solve the problems of Timor-Leste," said Mr, Nascimento on Tuesday (18/3) in NP, Dili. PUN member of NP, Fernanda Borges, said that she does not know the role of the PGR and has asked him to come and give a statement to clarify this in the NP.
"I don't know what the PGR is thinking about what to do, but as far as I know, everything has failed. Salsinha has not yet surrendered. We need to know whether he [Salsinha] wants to surrender or negotiate," said Ms Borges. Ms Borges also said that in other nations, the Prosecutor General would not take on such a role. The PG's role would be to deal with the suspects only when they had been submitted to the justice. (STL)
Joint Operation continues hunting Salsinha: Under the Command of F-FDTL Major Neves, the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation is continuing to hunt Salsinha and his group after their escape from their stronghold in Estadu village, Ermera District. "We will continue to chase Salsinha and his group anywhere in Timor-Leste. The best way for them is to surrender rather than suffer," said Major Neves on Saturday (15/3) in Lete-Foho. (STL)
Government to meet UN delegation: PM Xanana Gusmao held a meeting with the United Nations delegation from the Department of Peace Keeping Operations (DPKO) on Tuesday (18/3) in the Government Palace in Dili. The Vice Prime Minister, Jose Luis Guterres, said that the meeting did not discuss the events of February 11, but focused on assessing the coordination between the UN Police (UNPol) and the National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL).
The meeting also analysed the current situation of the police and proposed ideas and plans for the future. "It's time for the Timorese to take responsibility in leading their country properly," said Mr. Guterres after the meeting. During the meeting, the UN delegation asked and answered many questions on how to continue working with the Government of Timor-Leste and how to strengthen the institutions of the F-FDTL and PNTL. (STL)
NP questions preventive prison in Colmera: PUN member of NP, Joao Maia da Conceicao, has questioned the legitimacy of the preventive prison in Colmera, Dili claiming that there are only three prisons in the country. "The nation has only Becora, Gleno and Baucau prisons. Those who commit crimes are imprisoned in these, not in a secure 'prison' in Colmera. This has created a lot of confusion," said Mr. da Conceicao on Tuesday (18/3) in the NP, Dili. Mr. da Conceicao also questioned why Susar is the only person imprisoned in Colmera with security provided by the F-FDTL and PNTL, while Alfredo's group members are imprisoned in Becora. According to Mr. da Conceicao, the idea of a preventive prison may prevent Salsinha and his group from surrendering. (STL)
673 petitioners answer questionnaires: Six hundred and seventy three members of the petitioners gathered in Aitarak Laran have filled the questionnaires provided by the Government from 17-18 March. One of the petitioners said that some of the items of the questionnaires are concerned with learning what the petitioners have done since leaving the military. 'We have to follow the content of the questionnaires," said one of the petitioners on Tuesday (18/3) in GMT, Dili. (STL)
Nelson Correia: Joint Operation is ineffective: The Secretary General of the Progressive Democratic League (LDP), Nelson Correia, has said that he considers the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation to be ineffective as they have failed to captured Salsinha and his group.
"If we are not ready to conduct a Joint Operation, then let's try an intelligence operation. An intelligence operation would be smaller, would not create panic in the public and would be more effective. Given that this is a new nation, we must try every method," said Mr. Correia on Monday (17/3). Related to the statement of the Prosecutor General, Longuinhos Monteiro, that some leaders are impeding Salsinha's surrender, Mr. Correia said that PGR should make public the names of the people he suspects are involved. (DN)
Most of the petitioners decide to return to F-FDTL: Former F-FDTL Major Augusto de Araujo Tara said that most of the 672 petitioners who have so far filled the questionnaires, have decided to return to the military. "Upon what they have said, it is clear that most of them have decided to return to the military," said Major Tara. "TMR agrees that the petitioners can return to the military, but there will be some people who reject this." (DN)
ISF maintains its cooperation with Joint Operation: The Commander of the International Stabilization Forces (ISF), Brigadier General James Baker, said that the ISF has maintained its relationship with the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation during the operation in the districts. "ISF maintains its close relations with the F-FDTL and PNTL in the operations outside of Dili. The ISF, Joint Operation and the United Nations Police will continue to coordinate their activities to arrest those involved in February 11 as this is the objective of the Joint Operation," said Brigadier General Baker on Tuesday (18/3)," (TP)
PGR will conclude investigations when Salsinha surrenders: The Prosecutor General Longuinhos Monteiro said that the investigations into the events of February 11 will end when Salsinha and his group surrender. PGR also said that he has held hearings for 17 suspects for February 11, including 27 eyewitnesses. "I have provided a statement to the Acting President about the progress of the investigation. We have heard from 17 suspects and 27 eye witnesses of the case of February 11," said PGR Monteiro after briefing the Acting President of the Republic Fernando Lasama. (TP)
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Horta Congratulates Portuguese FPU: President Jose Ramos-Horta has congratulated the Portuguese Formed Police Unit (FPU) for saving his life on February 11. PR Horta gave his congratulations during the visit of GNR Captain Joao Martinho. The President was also visited by the Bishop of Darwin Diocese.
PGR has identified President's shooter: The General Prosecutor of the Republic, Longuinhos Monteiro, said that the Public Ministry has identified the shooter of PR Ramos-Horta. "We have identified the person who shot the President, but we cannot give out his name as the ballistic exam has not yet finished," said PGR Monteiro. PGR Monteiro also said that it has been confirmed that the man who shot PR Horta was indeed a member of Alfredo Reinado's group.
PGR loses contact with Salsinha: PGR Monteiro said that he has lost contact with Salsinha as the telephone networks have been down. "Until now, I have only been able to receive text messages from Salsinha. He has tried to contact me, but has been unable to as he has been surrounded [by the Joint Operation] and has had no network coverage," said PGR Monteiro.
RTL News Coverage
Petitioners respond to questionnaires: Most of the petitioners have filled in the questionnaires provided by the Government on the first day. Ten petitioners were not satisfied with some of the questions and have consequently left Aitarak Laran. F-FDTL member Captain Caesar Valente de Jesus confirmed that most of the registered 672 petitioners had filled in the questionnaires, even though some were dubious over the questions. "The petitioners are filling the questionnaires in groups, asking facilitators for assistance or consulting with each other," said Captain de Jesus. Captain de Jesus also revealed that the content of the first questionnaire related to the reasons why the petitioners had left the army. (RTL)
Print Coverage
UN Peacekeeping Operation Team Visits Timor-Leste: Dili – A team off experts from the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO) arrived in Timor-Leste today for an eleven-day visit to conduct an assessment on keyy areas of support provided by UNMIT to Timor-Leste. The assessment mission was planned while UNTAET Nations was reviewing the mandate of UNMIT. It is a part of overall support provided by the UN for the security sector in Timor-Leste. The team, led by UN police advisor Mr. Andrew Hughes, include representative from DPKO, the United Nation Development Fund, and the International Centre for Transitional Justice, UNMIT and the PNTL. The team will examine the progress of the development of the PNTL in light of their work with the UN police since 2006 and provided support to the overall reform of the PNTL. The team will consult with political leaders, government of facials, and key member of civil society including both national and international organizations. (TP)
UNMIT preoccupied with 470 pending cases: The Special Representative of the Secretary General (SRSG) for Timor-Leste, Atul Khare, said that UNMIT is preoccupied with 470 pending court cases. "I recognize that in the short time, we, the international community need to do a lot to support the development of the judicial system. In the next few months, along with the Timorese authorities, we will finalize an assessment to see the needs of the judicial system," said Mr. Khare. "I congratulate donors such as Australia, Brazil, Ireland, Norway, Portugal, Switzerland, USA and the European Commission for Human Rights for their contribution to Timor-Leste in the justice sector," concluded SRSG Khare. (DN)
Bishop Basilio demands resolution to Salsinha's case: The Bishop of Baucau Diocese, Basilio Nascimento, has asked the State to take steps to resolve once and for all the issue of Salsinha. The Bishop warned that if this issue was not resolved, it would prevent Timor-Leste from moving forward. "There are two ways Salsinha can be submitted: either through negotiation or through military force if he refuses to surrender," said Bishop Nascimento. The Bishop also said that the state should make a decision on Salsinha and get on with the business of running the country while the military does its job. (DN)
Possible inquiry into Hercules' links to February 11: Timor-Leste authorities have said that the February 11 investigations should be widened to include the former Jakarta gangster, Hercules Rosario Marc al, who has been closely linked with Indonesian Army Generals during Suharto's era. Hercules has also been accused by the UN of being involved in the violence unleashed on Timor-Leste following the Popular Consultation in 1999. Hercules visited Dili with the Indonesian Investors Club before the assassination attempts against President Jose Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao on February 11. During another visit on 21 January 2008, he met with PM Xanana Gusmao and other senior national officers. He also said during this visit that he was looking for possibilities to invest in Timor-Leste. (TP)
Joint Operation detects Salsinha: The F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation Command has detected the new hide-out of Salsinha and his group. An F-FDTL commander in Letefoho, Ermera confirmed yesterday that he knew of Salsinha's whereabouts. "We are a bit far from their hide-out, but we did see them with their civil uniforms and weapons." said the commander. (TP)
Fretilin demands PGR to name who is behind Salsinha's refusal to surrender: Fretilin is demanding that the General Prosecutor announce publicly the person/s who are apparently impeding the surrender of Gastao Salsinha. The Vice Chief of Fretilin in the National Parliament, Francisco Branco, has called on both the General Prosecutor and the Acting President of the Republic, Fernando Lasama, to reveal the names and apprehend the individuals involved. "It is in the national interest to reveal and capture the persons who want to prevent Salsinha and his men from surrendering. This will clear up speculations surrounding this issue," added Mr. Branco. (STL)
Mino Paixao – Salsinha and his men have escaped: The Apprehension Operation, under the command of Major Neves, Major Ular, and Major Koliati, surrounded the place where Salsinha and his men were hiding. The cordon was approximately 70 metres in diameter and set up in order to force them to surrender. However, Salsinha and his men managed to escape. "Major Neves and his members were urging them to surrender. But Salsinha and his men escaped – there was no contact fire from either of the parties," said General Commander Paixao on Saturday (15/3) in Memorial Hall, Dili. (TP)
Salsina's wife asks Govt to stop the Operation: The wife of Gastao Salsinha, Joaquina Salsinha, has asked the Government to stop the Apprehension Operation hunting her husband. "It's not necessary to hunt him [Salshina] if there is a willingness to solve the problem. It is better to keep a cool head in trying to resolve this problem together as his case affects the whole nation," she said on Friday (14/2) at her residence in Gleno, Ermera.
She has also questioned why the Government is not using peaceful measures to encourage him to surrender, rather than using weapons and force. Joaquin believes that her husband will not surrender if the Apprehension Operation continues for a long time. This is why she is insisting that the Apprehension Operation must be stopped. Joaquina has also noted that her husband's case is mostly utilized by the leaders for their own political ends. "We have had no contact for the last two months. He has not returned home until now. I am not sure whether he is dead or still alive," she added. (STL)
Inasio Maia surrenders: One of Gastao Salshina's members, Inasio Maia, has surrendered himself to the police in Hatolia sub- district after he directly contacted the former Commander of Regional IV, Ernesto Fernandes known as 'Dudu,' on Sunday (16/3), in Ermera district. "He told me directly that he was willing to surrender himself. Therefore, I immediately passed this on to the police in Ermera to pick him up," said Dudu. Dudu also explained that Inasio decided to surrender after the Apprehension Operation forces attempted to capture him. Together with other members, he has broken away from the leadership of Gastao Salsinha. (STL)
Koliati says military methods will be used against Salsinha and his men: The Apprehension Operation will use military tactics to force Salsinha and his men to surrender. "If Salsinha and his group are not going to respond to our repeated appeals, we will use military methods to bring them to justice," said Lieutenant Koliati on Friday (14/3/) in Letefoho, Ermera. (STL)
UN supports Timorese People to steer towards justice: The Special Representative of the Secretary-General in Timor-Leste, Atul Khare, said that United Nation will continue to support the Timorese people to steer their own paths towards justice. Mr Khare's statements were made during a ceremony where ten probationary judges, prosecutors and public defenders were sworn-in by Chief Justice Claudio Ximenes at Dili's Court of Appeals. "I also congratulate the authorities of the Justice Ministry and Legal Training Centre who have made an effort to steer its justice system," said the SRSG. (TP)
IDPs living in Farol receive sex education: To prevent Timorese people from contracting the HIV/AIDS virus, the director of Hametin Timor Foun NGO, Miguel Pinto, said that the objective of the workshop was to share the information with the IDPs on how to prevent catching sexually transmitted diseases. (TP)
Lasama: PR Horta wants to return to East Timor: The Acting PR, Fernando de Araujo 'Lasama', said Ramos-Horta wants to return to East Timor at the end of March because he wants to continue his life with the Timorese people under any circumstances. (DN)
Xanana says people expect justice to be impartial: Prime Minister, Xanana Gusmao, said that people expect that justice should be impartial. He made the statement after ten probationary judges, prosecutors and public defenders have been sworn-in by the Chief Justice Claudio Ximenes. "I would like to thank all our friends who been cooperating in this project, to ensure the success of the course," said the Prime Minister. (DN)
Chief of Bidau Masau appeals for IDPs to return to home: The Chief of Bidau Masau Village, Fransisco de Asis, has appealed to his people living in IDP camps to return home, and has assured them that there will not be any problems for them to return home. "I will guarantee their lives if they want to return home," he said. (STL)
Dinisio Babo asks the Government to implement the Commission of Inquiry: The Secretary-General of the CNRT party, Dinisio Babo Soares, has asked the Government to set up a Commission of Inquiry as quickly as possible as it has been approved by the parliament. "The government should establish a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the current situation and the attacks on February 11th," he said. (STL)
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Salsinha not far away: The Acting President of the Republic, Fernando Lasama, has again asked Salsinha to surrender. "I think he is still here in Timor-Leste. We hope that he will think about the solution for the nation... if Salsinha opens fire, then members of the operation will of course defend themselves," said PR Lasama.
Related to the statement of Prosecutor General Longuinhos Monteiro that some people are influencing Salsinha not to surrender, Acting President Lasama said it would be in the interests of some people if Salsinha died as he would also bury with him all the information he had. "We consider him to be a main witness as he led the attack against PM Xanana in Balibar. I think Salsinha has lots of information about this," said Acting PR Lasama on Thursday (13/2) in Palacio das Cinzas Caicoli, Dili. (DN)
Petitioners have option to return to military: Major Tara said that the petitioners have an option to return to the military as stated in the questionnaires provided by the Government. "Some questions asked: Do you want to return to the military even though you left it for two years?' Provide your explanation," said Major Tara after meeting with PM Xanana on Thursday (13/2) in Palacio do Governu, Dili.
Print Coverage
'Salsinha key informant of February 11': The Acting President of the Republic, Fernando Lasama considers Salsinha to be the key person in the attempts made against PR Ramos-Horta and PM Xanana on February 11. Related to the statement of Prosecutor General Longuinhos Monteiro that some people are influencing Salsinha not to surrender, Acting President Lasama said it would be in the interests of some people if Salsinha died as he would also bury with him all the information he had. "We consider him to be a main witness as he led the attack against PM Xanana in Balibar. I think Salsinha has lots of information about this," said Acting PR Lasama on Thursday (13/2) in Palacio das Cinzas Caicoli, Dili. (DN)
Fretilin asks Government to implement ICI resolutions: Fretilin MP in the National Parliament has asked Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao to implement the resolution of the International Commission of Inquiry approved by the National Parliament to investigate the attacks against PR Horta and PM Xanana on February 11. "It has already been one month since the events of February 11. The Government should implement the International Commission of Inquiry immediately in order to get to the truth of the matter," said Francisco Miranda, Fretilin member of NP on Thursday (13/3) in the National Parliament. (DN)
TVTL News Coverage
Message of President Jose Ramos-Horta to the Nation: [verbatim]
Now is the holy week, it is the beginning of Easter. It is the first time since one of our brothers of Alfredo Reinado's group and Salsinha's shot me that I have the possibility to speak to all people of Timor-Leste: to the Bishops, priests, sisters, Government, National Parliament, and civil society, all people of Timor-Leste.
I am thankful for your concerns, support, confidence and solidarity. I will not make a long statement, and I will not deliver a political speech. In one or two more weeks, I will be able to speak much more. I have received good treatment from everybody in Darwin Royal Hospital. I thank the ambulance and the GNR officers who took me to Heliport hospital. I thank the medical doctors in Heliport, 'Medical Centre' which saved my life, and flew me to Darwin. Soon I will try to return to Timor- Leste to resume my work.
At the moment Fernando Lasama serves as the Acting President of Republic with dignity, integrity and competence. I appeal to the Government, Members of Parliament, and political parties to work together in assisting the poor. That is all my words. F-FDTL members not involved in Joint Operation: The General Prosecutor of Republic Longuinhos has refuted claims that four F-FDTL members previously involved in the May 25 case were now involved in the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation. Mr Longuinhos said that the four members were currently detained in the F-FDTL detention centre in Tasi Tolu, Dili. "This is to counter the rumours that these four members of the F-FDTL are involved in the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation to chase Salsinha and his group. This is not true because they are now in the hands of the military police in Tasi Tolu," said PGR Monteiro on Tuesday (11/3) in Dili.
PGR Monteiro said that the four members of F-FDTL will be imprisoned in the military prison within the headquarters of the defence forces. PGR also said that the military prison is under construction. "The construction is on the final phase. The four members are currently under detention and will remain so until they can enter the prison as soon as it is completed," said PGR Monteiro.
Government to solve petitioners' problem: The Advisor to the Cabinet of the Prime Minister for Civil Society and Petitioners' Problem, Joaquim Fonseca, said that the Government is going to solve the petitioners' problems by providing questionnaires to them. The petitioners will answer in the questionnaire the question of whether they want to return to the military or remain as civilians upon the required mechanisms and criteria. "The State Secretary of Defence and F-FDTL have been working on the process for those who want to return to the military based on the required criteria," said Mr. Fonseca. The media is currently not allowed to enter the gathering place of the petitioners without the authorization of Mr Fonseca.
Print Coverage
No confrontation between Salsinha and Joint Operation: Even though the deadline for Salsinha has ended, there has been no confrontation between him and the F-FDFTL/ PNTL Joint Operation. A source from the Government Palace said that the stronghold of Salsinha has been detected but no attacks have as yet been conducted as the authorities want to avoid bloodshed.
Separately, the Spokesperson of the F-FDFTL/ PNTL Joint Operation, Lieutenant Colonel Filomeno Paixao, said that Salsinha has to contribute to the process. "Salsinha has to give us his contribution as we have all been waiting for two years. We will never have any solution if he keeps extending the deadline," said Commander Paixao. (DN)
Joint Operation continues: The Spokesperson of the F-FDFTL/ PNTL Joint Operation, Lieutenant Colonel Filomeno Paixao, said that because Salsinha and his group have not as yet surrendered, the operation is still continuing. "He promised that he should surrender on Monday (11/3). If he does not surrender the operation will continue to bring all people to justice all those who are against justice," said Commander Paixao at the press conference held in Memorial, Dili. "Salsinha has to give us his contribution as we have all been waiting for two years, but we will never have any solution if he keeps extending the deadline," said Commander Paixao. (DN)
ISF concerned about media coverage of Feb 11: The Commander of International Stabilization Forces (ISF), James Baker said that the ISF is concerned with the inaccuracies in information provided by the Timor-Leste media in their coverage of the February 11 events. According to Commander Baker, the information provided has not been factual. "I read lots of articles about February 11 which have no facts," said Commander Baker. Commander Baker confirmed that if the press wanted clarification about any information related to the ISF, they could contact the ISF directly. "It's very important to disseminate true information rather than spreading rumours. We are asking the media to stop the speculations," said Commander Baker. (DN)
PGR knows who is preventing Salsinha from surrendering: The Prosecutor General of the Republic, Longuinhos Monteiro, said that he knows the people who are impeding the surrender of Salsinha to the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation. PGR Monteiro said the people have been identified through their telephone communications with Salsinha. PGR Monteiro also said Salsinha's group are split between those who want to leave and those who want to stay with him. (STL)
PGR says Susar may contact Salsinha: PGR Longuinhos Monteiro has commended the offer made by Susar to help Salsinha to surrender. "I think this will help persuade him [Salsinha] to surrender," said PGR Monteiro. PGR Monteiro also said that he had lost contact with Salsinha since the deadline for his surrender ended (9-11/3). (TP)
TVTL News Coverage
Monteiro – No more bargaining with Salsinha: The General Prosecutor of the Republic, Longuinhos Monteiro said that the Government and the General Prosecutor will not bargain with Salsinha. "As the Government's representative in this case, I tell you that we will not bargain with Salsinha. For us this is an urgent case to be solved immediately," said Mr. Monteiro on Tuesday (11/3) in Caicoli, Dili. According to Mr. Monteiro, Salsinha asked on Monday (10/3) to extend his time for surrendering, but then broke his own promise by sending a letter to the General Prosecutor explaining that he would not be surrendering. "Now Salsinha says that he wants to surrender to PR Ramos-Horta when the President returns from Australia; this is his own statement. If something happens, don't blame the Government" said Mr. Monteiro.
Xanana - Salsinha, don't waste this time: At the plenary session of the National Parliament on Tuesday (11/3) PM Xanana Gusmao appealed to all people who have connections with Salsinha and his group to persuade them to surrender, rather than to die. With regards to the Prosecutor General Longuinhos Monteiro's relationship with Salsinha, the Prime Minister said that the Prosecutor General's interaction with Salsinha was only to confirm whether Salsinha would surrender or not.
RTL News Coverage
Monteiro - Salsinha influenced to not surrender: The General Prosecutor of the Republic Longuinhos Monteiro has claimed that there is an important person in this country who is influencing Salsinha not to surrender to the old leadership, but instead to surrender to the new leaders- the Prosecutor General declined to reveal who the new leaders are. Separately, Mr. Monteiro also said that some people outside the country are attempting to supply Salsinha with weapons. "I have new information that a person has tried to get between 5-10 weapons to support Salsinha," said Mr. Monteiro on Tuesday (11/3) in Dili. However, Mr. Monteiro believes that the weapons will not reach Timor-Leste as the country has taken action to prevent this kind of weapons' distribution.
Mateus Fernandes - The operation against rebels may create victims: Related to the unsuccessful attempts to get Salsinha to surrender to the state, the Deputy Commander of the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation, Inspector Mateus Fernandes, said that the operation against the rebel leader may create victims if the rebels do not follow the state's instruction and open fire against the operation in Ermera. Inspector Fernandes said that the Joint Operation will attempt to avoid using physical confrontation against the rebels, instead looking for peaceful ways to get them to surrender. "We really don't want this operation to create victims. So we are asking Salsinha not to listen to rumours," said Inspector Fernandes. The F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation continues in the districts, while in Ermera district the operation is approaching the stronghold of Salsinha and his group.
Print Coverage
Monteiro - No more bargaining with Salsinha: The General Prosecutor of the Republic, Longuinhos Monteiro said that the Government and the General Prosecutor will not bargain with Salsinha. "As the Government's representative in this case, I tell you that we will not bargain with Salsinha. For us this is an urgent case to be solved immediately," said Mr. Monteiro on Tuesday (11/3) in Caicoli, Dili. According to Mr. Monteiro, Salsinha asked to extend his time for surrendering on Monday (10/3) but then broke his own promise by sending a letter to the General Prosecutor explaining why he would not be surrendering. "Now Salsinha says that he wants to surrender to PR Ramos-Horta when the president returns from Australia; this is his own statement. If something happens, don't blame the Government" said Mr. Monteiro. (STL)
Xanana - Salsinha, don't waste your time: PM Xanana Gusmao appealed to Salsinha and his group to not waste time by waiting for PR Ramos-Horta's return in order to surrender. "Salsinha is waiting for the President to surrender, but this will not help. This is not an option that the Joint Operation Command will consider," said PM Xanana at the plenary session of the National Parliament on Tuesday (11/3) when the Prime Minister presented the report of the 48 hours of the 'State of Siege' to the National Parliament. PM Xanana Gusmao also appealed to all people who have connections with Salsinha and his group to persuade them to surrender, rather than to die. With regards to the Prosecutor General Longuinhos Monteiro's relationship with Salsinha, the Prime Minister said that the Prosecutor General's interaction with Salsinha was only to confirm whether Salsinha would surrender or not. (STL)
Petitioners not to return to the military: Former Major Augusto 'Tara' and Marcos 'Pilotu', together with four other petitioners, officially met the Acting President of the Republic, Fernando 'Lasama' to discuss the future for the petitioners gathered in Aitarak Laran, Dili. Major Tara said that the position of the Acting President is also the same as the Governments: that the petitioners cannot return to the military and must remain as civilians. "We are asking Prime Minister Xanana to clarify that the petitioners are to indeed remain as civilians, so that we have a clear answer," said Tara on Tuesday (11/3) after meeting the Acting President. (STL)
Joint Operation overacts: Member of the National Parliament are asking PM Xanana to quit from his position as the Minister of Security and Defence as he is unable to control PNTL and F-FDTL officers who acted inappropriately during the 'State of Siege.' During the NP plenary session, the Prime Minister offered no comment on this, but said that the Joint Operation Command would make efforts to improve their attitudes. The Prime Minister has also appealed for community members to report what they see, hear and feel to the Provedor of Human Rights. (STL)
People try to support weapons to Salsinha: The General Prosecutor of Republic Longuinhos Monteiro said that some people outside the country are attempting to supply Salsinha with weapons. "I have new information that a person has tried to get between 5-10 weapons to support Salsinha," said Mr. Monteiro on Tuesday (11/3) in Dili. However, Mr. Monteiro believes that the weapons will not reach Timor-Leste as the country has taken action to prevent this kind of weapons' distribution. (TP)
Horta asks Salsinha to surrender: PM Xanana Gusmao has reaffirmed PR Horta's message that the deadline for Salsinha to surrender is Tuesday (11/3), and that military action would follow if he did not surrender. This message is very important to Salsinha and his group and should make them think about what they have done. This message may have come as a response to Salsinha's letter stating that he would only surrender when PR Horta returned to Timor- Leste. Will Salsinha obey the call to surrender, or will he wait some more time? Let's see who follows who: will the state follow Salsinha's whims? Or will Salsinha follow the State's demands. On the one hand, each party has a right to self-defence, but it is also important that each party contribute to the nation's stability. Let's wait for the implementation of the state's decision to see what the intentions are: to kill, or to listen to each other? (TP) Riak Leman – 'State of Siege' benefits community: The Social Democratic Party (PSD) member of NP, Riak Leman said that the 'State of Siege' should be extended as the situation is still unstable given that Salsinha has not as yet surrendered and that weapons distributed in 2006 are still at large. Mr. Leman also said that the 'State of Siege' does not discriminate against anyone but instead benefits all members of the community. (TP)
Ana Pessoa - 'State of Siege' should not become 'State of Normal': Fretilin member of National Parliament, Ana Pessoa said that the 'State of Siege' should not become a 'State of Normal'. "The 'State of Siege' is implemented only when the nation is being threatened or in grave danger, this is why PR Ramos-Horta accepted the 'State of Siege' for a period of 48 hours," said Ms. Pessoa in NP, Dili when PM Xanana presented the report of the 48 hours of the 'State of Siege'. Ms Pessoa also said that there is something wrong with the country if people can only live in peace during a 'State of Siege'. "If all the petitioners are calm, why are we continuing with the 'State of Siege'? Because of Salsinha? In the 2006 crisis, PM Alkatiri did not authorize a demonstration, but PR Xanana said that to demonstrate is a right. Why didn't he implement the 'State of Siege' at that time when people were burning houses – we have be honest, if there is threat to the nation, we [the government] should inform the people so that they can know the truth and not listen to rumours." (DN)
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PM - Surrender only option for Salsinha: In relation to Salsinha's statement that he would only surrender to PR Ramos- Horta, the Prime Minister has reiterated the Government's ultimatum that Salsinha must surrender to the Government. PM Xanana said that the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation is continuing because of Salsinha's refusal to surrender. "If he wrote that he will not submit himself, the operation will continue. The problem is that he needs to act on the demands of the Government, not wait for the President," said PM Xanana on his arrival from Darwin, Australia on Monday (10/3) in Comoro Airport, Dili.
RTL News Coverage
No option for Salsinha if Government ultimatum ignored: The General-Prosecutor of the Republic Longuinhos Monteiro said that he will no longer act as a facilitator for Salsinha and his thirty one members as the deadline for them to surrender ends this afternoon. Mr. Monteiro said that as agreed by Salsinha himself, he was supposed to surrender on Monday (10/03), but his letter stated that he would only surrender once PR Jose Ramos- Horta returns to Timor-Leste. Mr. Monteiro also said that he has made every effort to encourage Salsinha and his group to surrender in a peaceful manner, but the final responsibility falls on Salsinha.
The F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation reaches Salsinha's stronghold in Ermera: The Deputy Commander of the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation, Filomeno Paixao, said that the Joint Operation is about to reach the place where Salsinha and his group are located. "We know all of his [Salsinha] movements. The Joint Operation is in Ermera now and occupies thirty strategic points," said Lieutenant Colonel Paixao at a press conference held in the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation HQ in Farol, Dili. Lieutenant Colonel Paixao also said that the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation is aiming to pressure Salsinha and his group to surrender to them.
PM - Surrender only option for Salsinha: In relation to the Salsinha's statement that he would only surrender to PR Ramos- Horta, the Prime Minister has reiterated the Government's ultimatum that Salsinha must surrender to the Government. PM Xanana said that the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation is continuing because of Salsinha's refusal to surrender. "If he indeed wrote that he will not submit himself, the operation will continue. The problem is that he needs to act on the demands of the Government, not wait for the President," said PM Xanana on his arrival from Darwin, Australia on Monday (10/3) in Comoro Airport, Dili.
SRSG welcomes IICI: The Special Representative of the Secretary- General (SRSG) for Timor-Leste, Atul Khare, has appealed to Salsinha and his group to submit themselves peacefully to the F- FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation. "We believe that the situation in the country continues to remain calm. Someday Salsinha and his group will submit themselves. There is no other way," said SRSG Khare on Monday (10/3) after his weekly meeting with Acting President of the Republic Fernando 'Lasama' de Araujo in Palacio das Cinzas Caicoli, Dili. Concerning the resolution of the National Parliament to establish an International Independent Commission of Inquiry for February 11, SRSG Khare said that he believed this to be a positive step.
Print Coverage
Joint Operation surrounds Salsinha and his group: The F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation is currently occupying thirty strategic points in Ermera and mobilizing 465 soldiers to surround the rebel group led by Salsinha. "We know all of his [Salsinha] movements. The Joint Operation is in Ermera now and occupies thirty strategic points," said the Deputy Commander of the Joint Operation, Lieutenant Colonel Filomeno Paixao at a press conference held in the Joint Operation HQ in Farol, Dili. The Joint Operation performs daily patrols and collaborates with the International Stabilization Forces (ISF) on operational tactics. The Joint Operation is continuing to appeal to Salsinha and his group to avoid violence and to respect the negotiations he has had with the General Prosecutor. (STL)
Salsinha to surrender to PR Horta: The rebel leader, Gastao Salsinha stated that he will surrender himself only upon the return of PR Ramos Horta to Timor-Leste. Salsinha directly gave his statement to the General Prosecutor, Longuinhos Monteiro, through a letter sent to Mr. Monteiro on Sunday (9/3). "I don't know why Salsinha doesn't want to surrender and decided to cancel his planned submission," said Mr. Monteiro on Monday (10/3) in Caicoli. Mr. Monteiro said that if Salsinha did not surrender, then he should face the consequences of his decision. "After Monday, the problem is not mine. This problem will belong to the military," said Mr. Monteiro. (STL)
Carrascalao - Xanana leads without discrimination: The President of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) Mario Viegas Carrascalao said that the Alliance Majority in Parliament's Government, under the leadership of PM Xanana Gusmao, has not discriminated against any other party and is open to members of all parties, including Fretilin. "The Xanana-led Government is one that has allowed open participation in all processes. They have not discriminated the way that Fretilin did.... It's very different with Dr. Mari Alkatiri," said Mr. Carrascalao on Monday (10/3) in the National Parliament, Dili. (STL)
Petitioners incredulous over Xanana's statement: The 671 petitioners who are now gathered in Aitarak Laran, Dili, are at incredulous over the Prime Minister's statement that the petitioners cannot re-enter the military. Before the PM made this statement to the petitioners at Aitarak Laran, the Government had given the petitioners three options: first, to return to the military; second, to remain as civilians; and third, to be re- employed in other countries.
The Coordinator of the petitioners in Aitarak Laran, Captain Caesar Valente de Jesus, said: "In his statement, the PM may state what he likes, but the process of resolving the petitioner's problems is continuing as it was based on the Government's options to the petitioners," said Captain de Jesus on Monday (10/3) in Aitarak Laran, Dili. According to Captain de Jesus, the options offered by the Government would be considered by each petitioner to see which option was best for them.
Separately, a petitioner said that he accepts the options and is asking the Government to solve their problems as soon as possible. "Most of us accept the PM's statement with sadness because we came here to discuss the three options. If we knew that there was no option to return to the military, many of us may not have come to Aitarak Laran," said anonymous petitioner. (STL)
Horta - Salsinha has to surrender today: PR Jose Ramos-Horta is asking Gastao Salsinha to surrender himself to the state forces today (Tuesday) to face justice as there is no other option left. PR Ramos-Horta relayed this message during the visit of PM Xanana Gusmao in Darwin, Australia on Monday (10/3). "The President said that after the 10th (yesterday) and 11th (today), there would be no more options left [for Salsinha] and that the military operation would continue. The F-FDTL, PNTL and ISF are going to reach him... we want to show him that there is no way, annd no dialogue, left for him," said PM Xanana. (TP)
Suspects of May 25, TMR should explain: The International Prosecutor Felismino Cardoso said that the F-FDTL Commander Taur Matan Ruak needs to confirm to the state why the four F-FDTL members who were involved in the case of May 25 had not as yet been imprisoned. "We could not execute the arrest warrants issued by the Public Ministry. That's why we trusted UNPol to arrest them, but until now, this has not happened yet. Commander TMR needs to provide an explanation as to why his members have not been imprisoned yet," said Prosecutor Cardoso. Prosecutor Cardoso also said that the Dili District Court had last year issued an arrest warrant to UNPol to arrest the four F-FDTL members to be imprisoned. (TP)
UNPOL Commissioner Tor - UNPol welcomes Salsinha: The UN Police Commissioner in Timor-Leste, Rodolfo Tor, said that UNPol continues to welcome Salsinha and his members who have still not surrendered the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation. "We also offer two officers to work with the Joint Operation in the HQ of the F- FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation in Farol, Dili. Some are providing security to the petitioners in Aitarak Laran and also in the districts. About Salsinha, we continue to welcome them," said Commissioner Tor. Commissioner Tor said that the security situation in Timor-Leste continues to be calm, even though some people were frightened by the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation. (DN)
TMR - not surrender, face military forces: The F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation Commander, Brigadier General Taur Matan Ruak, said that the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation does not want Salsinha's death, but his surrender. Brigadier General TMR said that the Joint Operation is collaborating with the International Stabilization Forces to bring about Salsinha's surrender and threatened military force if Salsinha and his group did not submit themselves voluntarily. "We do not want him die. We will have a Joint Operation between PNTL, F-FDTL and ISF to use military forces if he does not submit himself," said Brigadier General TMR. "Now we wait for Salsinha to cooperate," said Commander TMR. (DN)
RTL News Coverage
Rebel Leader and group to surrender: The General-Prosecutor Longuinhos Monteiro said at a press conference held in the Government Palace on Friday (7/3) that rebel leader Gasta o Salsinha was going to surrender on Monday (10/3) along with 30 of his group members to the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation. He would also surrender eighteen weapons. Mr. Monteiro said that Salsinha had intended to surrender on Friday last week but needed two extra days to gather his group in Ermera before surrendering themselves. Mr. Monteiro also said that the Government should ensure that all security and judicial procedures for Salsinha and his men were implemented in an appropriate and just manner.
F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation arrest 6 suspects in Kulau: The Command of the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation arrested 6 suspects on Sunday (9/3) in Kulau, Dili for threatening IDPs. The Operational Commander of PNTL, Mateus Fernandes, said that the threats happened while the victims had returned to inspect their homes in the area of Kulau. Commander Fernandes said that the suspects are now being detained in the Dili Police Station for further investigation. "Today some young men are attempting to create difficulties for our friends who are returning to their homes, especially in Kulau," said Commander Fernandes. "We have no tolerance with those who act solely on their own will." Separately, the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation Command arrested twelve suspects who had tried to attack the Joint Operation in Kampung Tuti-Comoro, Dili.
Print Coverage
US Ambassador rejects claims of US relations with Alfredo: The Ambassador of the United States of America (USA) in Timor-Leste, Hans Clemm [Klemm is the correct spelling – JMM], has rejected claims that the US had provided the uniform worn by Alfredo Reinado up until his death on February 11. "I reject by 100 or 110% rumours that the US had supported Alfredo by providing him with the military uniform," said Ambassador Clemm on Wednesday (5/3) in STL office, Dili. According to Ambassador Clemm, the military uniform worn by Alfredo is similar to the uniform of the US Navy, but the uniform was not provided by the US Government to Alfredo. (STL)
Salsinha won't surrender: A source close to Salsinha said via telephone on Sunday (9/3) that Salsinha had sent a letter to the General Prosecutor Longuinhos Monteiro claiming that he would not surrender to the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation. The source admitted that while he was not privy to the contents of the letter, he was sure that Salsinha had stated in the letter that he would not surrender until PR Ramos Horta came back to Timor-Leste.
General Prosecutor Longuinhos Monteiro revealed that he had received a letter from Salsinha. "His planned surrender for today (Friday 07/03) has been postponed until Monday," said Mr. Longuinhos on Friday (7/3) at a press conference in the Government Palace in Dili. Previously, the F-FDTL Commander, Brigadier General Taur Matan Ruak, said that the deadline for Salsinha to surrender had ended and that the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation would now use military forces to capture him alive. (STL)
Alkatiri - TL's democracy in jeopardy: The Secretary General of Fretilin, Mari Alkatiri, has said that he believes if the questions around the events of February 11 are not clarified, then the democratic process in the country would be jeopardised. In an interview with the Portuguese News Network, Alkatiri said that reports on how the Prime Minister was ambushed were fake. Alkatiri said that Fretilin had immediately sent a person to the site of the ambush to take pictures and could thus verify that claims of multiple bullets to the PM's car were false. Alkatiri said he believed the entire 'ambush' to be suspicious. "Why would Alfredo attack a person [Horta] who was trying to find a good resolution to his problems?" questioned Alkatiri. "Who was attacked first? Reinado or the President?"
Alkatiri also said "The 2006 crisis happened because Xanana wanted power because at the time, he had no power. After becoming Prime Minister, he still feels that he has no power. He is a patriot, and I do not accept the accusations of him selling out this nation to Australia, but he does not act as a nationalist, he acts as a guerrilla.... He thinks he is the only one who can mobilise the population," said Mr. Alkatiri. Mr. Alkatiri further said that an end to the crisis would only come if the Government ended the 'State of Siege' as people did not now feel that they had the freedom to reveal the truth. He also called for early elections as another way to end the crisis. Finally, Alkatiri made the claim that Fretilin must be involved in leading the government. (STL)
Susar won't stay in Becora prison: Because of security reasons, the rebel Susar is to be remanded to a building in an undisclosed location in the centre of Dili rather than in Becora prison. The Prosecutor General Longuinhos Monteiro said that the decision was made by the Minster of Justice. "Because of security reasons, Susar has moved out from Becora prison and is placed in another location. The new 'prison' has the same system of security and management as in Becora prison. The house is secured by both the F-FDTL and PNTL," said Mr. Monteiro on Friday (6/3) after meeting PM Xanana Gusmao in the Government Palace. Susar was imprisoned following his statement in the court last week that he was involved in the events of February 11. (TP)
Salsinha should surrender: The Former Minister of Justice, Domingos Sarmento, has appealed to Salsinha and his group to submit themselves to justice, arguing that armed conflict never resolves anything. "We all hope that Salsinha and his group will come down to submit themselves to justice," said Mr. Sarmento. During the same occasion, Acting President of the National Parliament Vicente Guterres also argued that the surrendering was the only thing for Salsinha and his group could do. Separately, F-FDTL Commander, Brigadier General Taur Matan Ruak is continuing to pressure Salsinha despite positive signs that Salsinha intends to surrender. "At any moment, we are going to have an operation with the F-FDTL, PNTL and ISF to use force, and they [Salsinha and his group] should prepare themselves," warned Commander TMR. (TP)
TVTL News Coverage
The Petitioners will not return to the F-FDTL, but will seek ways to gain employment: "In relation to the military... if you want to say that I can leave and tomorrow I will go back... this doesn't happen... nowhere in the world does this happen. In other countries, a person can leave if they have fulfilled their military obligations for two years... and another thing is... discipline applies to everything... this is in accordance with justice... you can't leave and then come back... this would make a mockery of the institutions of the military and the police...you can't think it is so easy... to leave and then come back...leaveave and then come back, then we would be known as 'revolving door' that's what we are going to tell them..." said Xanana. [verbatim]
RTL News Coverage
Investing in women and equality: At the weekly UNMIT press conference held at Obrigado Barrack in Dili, the UNMIT Senior Gender Advisor, Rita Reddy, said that the theme for this year's International Women's Day was: Investing in Women and Equality. Ms. Reddy said that the topic was raised so that women could enable other women to reach gender equality. Furthermore, she said that UNMIT is working on capacity building programs for women coordinated with the Government of Timor-Leste.
Print Coverage
PM Xanana - Salsinha to surrender today: PM Xanana Gusmao said that Salsinha is going to submit himself to the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation by the end of the day (7/3). "It looks positive," said PM Xanana after meeting with the Acting President Fernando 'Lasama' de Araujo on Thursday (6/3) in Palacio das Cinzas Caicoli, Dili. The PM also said that he has reliable information that Salsinha is willing to surrender. (STL)
IDPs' camps to close: PM Xanana Gusmao confirmed that the Government will close all IDP camps in Dili. PM Xanana regrets the attitudes of IDPs who have received recovery funds, but are still remaining in the camps. "I want to tell you that some people went back to the camps after receiving the Government's subsidy. Do not take advantage of the Government as we are committed to solving the IDPs problem," said PM Xanana. (STL)
'State of Siege' reduces violence: The Assistant to Dean of Faculty of Social and Political Sciences of UNTL, Antonio Gusmao, said that after the events of February 11, violence in the country has decreased. "At least after the 'State of Siege' was executed, the violence in the country was reduced. For some weeks now, people have been living in calm with no violence... it contributes significanntly to the security of the country," said Mr. Gusmao on Thursday (6/3) in Caicoli, Dili. (STL) UNMIT has program to empower rural women: The UNMIT Senior Gender Advisor, Rita Reddy, said that UNMIT will help Timorese women to know their rights. "I want to inform you about the celebration of Women's Day in Timor-Leste and of the efforts made for the liberty of women during past years," said Ms. Rita Reddy at the UNMIT weekly press briefing on Thursday (6/3) held at Obrigado Barrack Caicoli, Dili. (DN)
Vicente Guterres – "Salsinha should not be afraid to face justice": The Acting President of the National Parliament, Vicente Guterres, has appealed to Gastao Salsinha to not be afraid to face justice as Susar has done. "There is no position better than when we collaborate with justice," said Mr. Guterres on Thursday (6/3) in the National Parliament in Dili. (DN)
Hugo - IICI won't make recommendations: The CNRT member of the NP, Aderito Hugo, has claimed that the International Independent Commission of Inquiry (IICI) will be worthless at it won't be able to give recommendation to the State.
"Conducting the investigations without being able to issue recommendations is pointless." said Mr. Hugo in the National Parliament, Dili. (TP)
TVTL News Coverage
TMR happy over court decision: The Commander of the F-FDTL, Brigadier General Taur Matan Ruak, said that he is content with the decision made by the court regarding the four F-FDTL members involved in the shooting case against PNTL members. "We are ready to let our members submit to justice." said Commander TMR.
IDPs start returning home: Fifty one families at some of the IDP camps in Dili have received a Government incentive to return home. The subsidies range from USD 1,500 for partially destroyed homes, to USD 4,000 for totally destroyed homes. The Minister of Social Solidarity, Maria Domingas Alves, said that the subsidies will only be provided once the recipient has undergone a survey, verification and re-verification process. "I am really happy to have this subsidy. I think it is only fair given that we have lost so much" said Marcal, an IDP whose house was destroyed during the 2006 crisis. The Minister also said that the registration process would continue until all IDPs returned homes.
RTL News Coverage
Commander of F-FDTL/PNTL, asks Salsinha to surrender: The Commander of the F-FDTL, Brigadier General Taur Matan Ruak, has said that the Joint Operation has identified the movement of Salsinha and his group along with the people who are providing them with support and food assistance. Salsinha has said that he is ready to submit himself if the military operation in Ermera is suspended. Separately, Acting President Fernando Lasama and PM Xanana said that the Joint F-FDTL/PNTL Operation will continue until all weapons are handed in.
Print Coverage
Carrascalao: Government must explain Susar's imprisonment: The President of the Social Democratic Party (PSD), Mario Viegas Carrascalao, said that the Government should explain the reasons why Susar has been imprisoned. "The Government should explain this ... if they don't, it will create a very negative perception to the public," said Mr. Carrascalao. Separately, former the Minister of Justice, Domingos Sarmento, said that the judicial process for Susar is a normal judicial process which all criminal suspects are exposed to. (TP)
Conditions prepared for Salsinha's surrender: The F-FDTL and PNTL are preparing good conditions for Salsinha and his group to surrender. "We have prepared conditions for him to come. He is really cooperative. We expect him to come," said Brigadier General Taur Matan Ruak. (TP)
TVTL News Coverage
NP approves ICCI: The National Parliament approved on Monday (3/3) a resolution to establish an International Independent Commission of Inquiry (IICI). The resolution, proposed by Fretilin, KOTA, PPT and PD, will aim at uncovering the judicial and political responsibilities of the authors of February 11. Upon the agreement of MPs, IICI will work together with the judicial authorities. The National Parliament will recommend to the Government to work with the United Nations in establishing the IICI.
RTL News Coverage
Joint Operation of F-FDTL/PNTL: Related to rumours that the military operation has destroyed Christians statues in some houses, the Deputy Commander of F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation, Inspector Mateus Fernandes, said that the mission of the Joint Operation is only to seek the perpetrators of February 11, not to insult people's beliefs. The Deputy Commander further appealed for people to not pay attention to such rumours.
Print Coverage
Mateus - Government asks Salsinha to officially surrender: The Commander of the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation has made it clear that the Government needs Salsinha to surrender formally to the Government. "Salsinha has already made contact, but the Government wants him to formally surrender so that the public can know that he has submitted himself," said Commander Fernandes. (TP)
Rebel jailed before trial: The Dili District Court has ordered that Susar be remanded to Becora Prison while he awaits trial. This precaution was taken given the severity of the crimes he is charged with. (TP)
SRSG/Lasama - Seeking ways to develop nation: The Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) for Timor-Leste, Atul Khare, said that his weekly meeting with the Acting President of the Republic, Fernando 'Lasama' de Araujo, was showing positive signs. "In our regular weekly meetings, we discuss many issues, including finding solutions to move this nation forward," said SRSG Khare on Tuesday (4/3) in Dili. (TP)
Alfredo's member surrenders, SRSG: good step for stability: The Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) for Timor-Leste, Atul Khare, considers the surrender of the Alfredo's member to the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation to be a positive step towards regaining stability. "I believe that the efforts of the state of Timor-Leste are moving forward to strengthen peace and stability," said SRSG Khare after his regular weekly meeting with the Acting President Fernando 'Lasama' de Araujo on Tuesday (4/3) in Palacio das Cinzas Caicoli, Dili. (STL)
TVTL News Coverage
Horta forgives Alfredo: The Acting President of the Republic, Fernando Lasama, visited PR Jose Ramos-Horta at the Darwin Royal Hospital, Australia. PR Ramos-Horta said that he has forgiven Alfredo Reinado and has asked that the Government look after his family.
RTL News Coverage Alfredo's man surrenders: A member of Alfredo Reinado's group, Domingos Amaral, surrendered on Monday (3/3) in Maubisse, Ainaro District. He also surrendered one automatic weapon. Amaral said that the weapon was seized in Metiaut during the attack on PR Ramos-Horta's residence. The F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation has confirmed the numbers of the petitioners gathered in Aitarak Laran has increased to 624.
Print Coverage
Lasama - military operation continues: Acting President Fernando Lasama de Araujo confirmed that the military operation against Salsinha's group will not cease as the rebels are still in hiding. Acting PR Lasama congratulated group members who had surrendered themselves and their weapons. "There is no other way, they must surrender themselves and their weapons," said Acting PR Lasama on Monday (3/3). (STL)
Early election possible: Early elections may happen if President Jose Ramos-Horta's health does not allow him to continue as President. "If the Court of Appeals states that there is a permanent impediment to the Presidency within 90 days, then early elections should be called to elect a new President," said Vital dos Santos, Democratic Party (PD) member of NP on Monday (3/3). (STL) Salsinha wants to surrender in Gleno: The Spokesperson of the Petitioners, Gastao Salsinha, wants to surrender himself to his family and Father Adrianus Olan in Gleno, Ermera. PM Xanana Gusmao said that Salsinha is currently making preparations to come to Dili. (DN)
IDPs want to return home: For two years now, people have been living as IDPs waiting for the problems of the petitioners to be solved. "We still have questions about the weapons they submitted. They ran away with many weapons and surrendered with only one or two. Where are the rest of the weapons? We are IDPs because we are afraid of the weapons, not the people," said Domingos, an IDP in Farol Camp, Dili. (DN)
Maria Paixao – Salsinha surrenders, 'State of Siege' ends: The Vice President of the National Parliament, Maria Paixao, has said that they are waiting for Salsinha and his group to surrender in order to end the 'State of Siege.' Ms. Paixao has appealed for Salsinha to submit himself to justice. "I believe that in the short time Salsinha will surrender as a citizen who loves his country," said Ms. Paixao on Monday (3/3) in the National Parliament. (DN)
RTL News Coverage
Rebel surrenders: The Commander of the Falintil-Defence Forces of Timor-Leste (F-FDTL) and the National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL) Joint Operation, Filomeno Paixao, said that one of the rebels, Amaro 'Susar' da Costa, had surrendered to the F-FDTL and PNTL Joint Operation on Monday (02/03) in the sub-district of Turiscai, Same. Susar was presented to Prime Minister Gusmao in the Government Palace in Dili by the Joint Operation. Commander Paixao said that Susar was persuaded by the President of ASDT, Francisco Xavier do Amaral, along with the population of Turiscai, to surrender himself, his two weapons and some ammunition. "Our brother Susar has joined us since last night. The Joint Operation is very happy with this attitude," said Commander Paixao. Commander Paixao also confirmed that the Joint Operation had directly contacted Gastao Salsinha and was urging him to surrender.
Horta's health improves: The Former Health Minister, Rui Maria de Araujo, said that the President was able to see visitors as his health was improving. "His recovery is going well. PR Ramos-Horta has had a special visit from Acting President Fernando Lasama de Araujo, Special Representative of Secretary-General for Timor- Leste, Atul Khare, and Former Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri," said Mr. Araujo.
PM - Dialogue won't solve problems: Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao has said that the Government will not rely on dialogue to solve the problems faced by the petitioners gathered in Aitarak Laran, Dili. However, the PM did say that Government had another mechanism to resolve the issues and that this would be discussed with the petitioners later in the week. "I want you to know that now there is no dialogue. Before, we were asking for you to engage in dialogue with your leaders... but some of you thouught that you were more powerful than the State and made us lose two years ...," said the PM on Saturday (02/03) in Aitarak Laran Dili. The Prime Minister has also given one more week for the rest of the petitioners to come to Dili, saying that their continuing absence indicates that they don't want to look for peaceful solutions.
Print Coverage
Susar - "I was involved in the attacks against the PR's residence": Rebel member Amaro 'Susar' da Costa has surrendered to the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation on Monday (02/03) in sub- district Turiscai, Same. During an F-FDTL and PNTL Joint Operation press conference held on Sunday (02/03), the former member of the Rapid Intervention Unit (UIR) of PNTL, Susar, said that he was involved in the attacks against the residence of PR Ramos-Horta along with Alfredo Reinado. Susar has been presented to Prime Minister Gusmao in the Government Palace in Dili by the Joint Operation. (DN)
Carrascalao - February 11, an international political conspiracy: The President of the Social Democratic Party (PSD), Mario Viegas Carrascalao, believes the attacks against PR Ramos-Horta and PM Xanana Gusmao to have been caused by an international political conspiracy. "Maybe the groups doing the attack were backed by some people. There were rumours that there was USD20000 found in Alfredo's pocket when he died. Some people may have given him this money before he died, or put the money in his pocket after he died. His body may have been dumped in Metiaut after being shot in another place," said Mr. Carrascalao. Carrascalao also reiterated his desire for Timor-Leste to establish an International Independent Commission of Inquiry to investigate the events shrouded in so much mystery. (DN)
Petitioners increase to 607: The Spokesperson of the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation, Lieutenant Colonel Filomeno Paixao, said that the numbers of petitioners gathered in Aitarak Laran had increased to 607 by Sunday afternoon (02/03). Separately, F-FDTL Major Marcos Tilman said that the Government is showing its commitment to resolve the problems by providing security and other facilities for the gathering place. (DN)
TMR - Salsinha's group don't deserve weapons: The Commander of the F-FDTL/PNTL Joint Operation, Brigadier General Taur Matan Ruak, has said that the Joint Operation is continuing in its efforts to urge Salsinha and his group to follow their friends and come to Aitarak Laran, Dili. "They know our position. We will still give them time to make a decision; a decision with no violence," said TMR. (TP)