Statement of the Asia Pacific Solidarity Coalition (APSOC)

Let us not forget East Timor!

Together with most of its ardent supporters worldwide, the events in Timor Leste these last two days has raised deep concern and anxiety on the state of this fledgling nation that we have accompanied in its struggle for liberation.

The violence spurred by the dismissal from service of more than 500 military personnel that triggered violent protests actions in late April until early this month is hopefully not reflective of a pattern in the coming days. Although not to be condoned, these incidents can be attributed to the birth pangs of this young nation and are nothing compared to the daily fare of other "stable" countries worldwide.

Still, there is reason for unease.
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The Asia Pacific Solidarity Coalition (APSOC)-- the erstwhile Asia Pacific Coalition for East Timor or APCET --is saddened by this renewed violence and can only hope for the immediate end and just resolution of the problem.

APSOC reiterates its solidarity with the Timorese people in this challenging time and enjoins the international solidarity movement to likewise manifest its concern. Indeed, the saga of this nation of close to a million people continues to beg our attention and accompaniment. But we are also concerned that international troops had again to be invited to help quell the violence in this already sovereign nation.

The Timorese have suffered for more than 24 years of repressive occupation by Indonesia and the violence that marred the independence vote of 1999 is still fresh in their minds. They are enduring the trauma of this past violence and may have yet to completely recover from such.

Such post-traumatic stress could be a major factor in the way people react to any untoward political situation. Of course extreme poverty, the sense of deprivation and social injustice are also realities the people and the government are confronted – and stressed- with.

We support Timor Leste government's avowed efforts towards the peaceful resolution of the conflict and we urge that this be done at the soonest time possible. We also call on all the forces involved in this problem to cooperate with all transparent and sincere initiatives to resolve the issues. We would also like to highlight the important role of Timorese civil society organizations in this time of crisis, where their voluntereerism, ingenuity and patriotism can be of valuable service to the country and the people.

We reiterate our commitment in supporting all Timorese in this most arduous task of nation-building as we urge the people to hold firmly together even amidst the difficult challenges of becoming a truly democratic nation. Our continuing solidarity remains as we continue to offer our hand to all Timorese with a hope of bridging the divide that is now threatening to rip the fabric of the Timorese nation.

A luta continua!
ASIA PACIFIC SOLIDARITY COALITION (APSOC)
25 May 2006