Aniceto Guterres – O Parlamento é apenas um "megafone" do CNRT

FRETILIN

COMUNICADO DE IMPRENSA
Dili, 10 Setembro 2007

ANICETO GUTERRES: O PARLAMENTO É APENAS UM "MEGAFONE" DO GOVERNO DO CNRT; DESAPARECEU A DEMOCRACIA PARLAMENTAR.

O executivo do Parlamento Nacional de Timor-Leste, constituído pelo CNRT e os seus aliados, tornou-se um "lacaio" e "porta-voz/megafone" do governo do CNRT de facto, apesar do Presidente do Parlamento Nacional ter afirmado no discurso após a eleição do Presidente que o Parlamento Nacional nunca se tornaria o "porta-voz" do governo, disse hoje o líder do grupo parlamentar da FRETILIN Aniceto Longuinhos Guterres.

"Já tínhamos visto na eleição do executivo do parlamento que não têm tendências democráticas e que não respeitam os outros grupos parlamentares como representantes legítimos do povo. Deliberaram e vingativamente negligenciaram o estatuto da FRETILIN como o partido mais votado e o maior grupo parlamentar. Agora, podemos ver outra vez que não respeitam os outros grupos parlamentares e que não estão disponíveis para seguir as regras parlamentares, que garantem a cada deputado uma voz no parlamento através da realização de sessões plenárias regulares semanais do parlamento onde cada um possa falar," disse Guterres.

Em 7 de Setembro, foi emitida a Notícia No. 4/SAPLEN/II, em nome do executivo parlamentar seguindo-se a um encontro de representantes dos grupos parlamentares na passada Quarta-feira, 6 de Setembro, decretando que as sessões plenárias regulares para hoje e amanhã tinham sido suspensas. Contudo a FRETILIN contra-argumenta que esta notícia transgride as próprias regras do parlamento, que estipula que as sessões plenárias do parlamento se devem realizar todas as Segundas e Terça-feiras e a FRETILIN questionou as razões do executivo do parlamento por detrás desta suspensão das sessões plenárias.

"Eles suspenderam as sessões plenárias porque eles não querem que a FRETILIN ou os outros partidos levem ao plenário hoje ou amanhã as questões muito preocupantes que já se levantaram acerca da proposta do programa de governo. É importante notar que o próprio documento com a proposta de programa de governo foi distribuído aos deputados pela porta de trás; isto é sem ter sido formalmente e de forma apropriada agendado para a sessão plenária do parlamento como por direito devia ter sido. Claramente reconheceram este erro e agendaram a marcação do programa do governo para uma sessão plenária a realizar-se amanhã," acrescentou.

Guterres deixou também claro que como líder do grupo parlamentar da FRETILIN, durante o encontro dos representantes dos grupos parlamentares que se realizou no dia 6 de Setembro passado, ele requerera que as sessões plenárias para começar a discutir o programa de governo deviam ser agendadas para o próximo dia 17 de Setembro de modo a dar quatro ou cinco dias para os deputados poderem analisar o programa de governo, assim garantindo que o debate pudesse ser mais frutuoso.

"Como vemos as coisas a moldura de tempo proposta é demasiadamente curta porque apenas recebemos uma fotocópia da versão Portuguesa do documento do programa do governo na Sexta-feira à tarde, quase noite. Muitos dos deputados de todos os partidos são novos e têm conhecimento limitado do Português. Não tiveram tempo suficiente para analisar adequadamente o programa do governo. Muitos nem sequer tinham visto antes um programa de governo. Apesar de termos insistido várias vezes, sendo a última vez no Sábado 8 de Setembro, para ser marcada a sessão plenária para debater o programa de governo para o dia 17, o executivo do parlamento insiste que a deve marcar para o próximo 13 de Setembro. Isto aconteceu porque estão a ser pressionados por todos os lados para aderirem à data de 13 de Setembro," disse Guterres.

"O grupo da FRETILIN atenderá o parlamento esta manhã e amanhãs, porque como vemos as sessões plenárias não foram suspensas de acordo com as regras parlamentares, dado que apenas uma deliberação do plenário do parlamento decreta que as sessões podem ser suspensas ou agendadas para datas alternativas. Estivemos hoje nesta casa do povo, porque não aceitamos o desrespeito mostrado contra as regras parlamentares. Viemos hoje para levantar e discutir questões muito importantes que afectam mesmo agora o nosso povo, de acordo com o nosso direito como representantes do povo exercidos por intermédio da sessão plenária e de acordo com as regras do parlamento," clarificou Guterres.

"Contudo, mais uma vez podemos ver claramente que apesar do seu serviço de boca a promoveram a democracia, a prática da política de inclusão e de respeito pelos direitos do povo, que eles na realidade não respeitam o povo porque mostram falta de respeito pelos grupos e pelo seu direito de participar em sessões plenárias nestes tempos salvaguardados pelas regras do parlamento."

"O parlamento tornou-se o megafone do governo. Não precisam de tentar representar o contrário. Este é um passo muito regressivo para a nossa nova legislatura. A FRETILIN tudo fará dentro dos seus poderes para se opor a estas acções do executivo parlamentar, acções manifestas na desvalorização do papel do parlamento e um descarado desrespeito do parlamento como órgão representante do povo," concluiu Guterres.

Contactos: José Teixeira (+670) 728 7080, ou email: fretilin.media@gmail.com

UNMIT – MEDIA MONITORING - Tuesday, 11 September 2007

"UNMIT assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the articles or for the accuracy of their translations. The selection of the articles and their content do not indicate support or endorsement by UNMIT express or implied whatsoever. UNMIT shall not be responsible for any consequence resulting from the publication of, or from the reliance on, such articles and translations."

National Media Reports

Sukehiro Hasegawa: promise to contribute to Timor-Leste development

The former Special Representative of Secretary General (SRSG) of the United Nations in Timor-Leste, Dr. Sukehiro Hasegawa met Vice Prime Minister Jose Luis Guterres and promise to contribute to the country’s development.

“Even though Mr. Hasegawa is now in Japan, he still loves Timor-Leste and wants to talk to the government, opposition and the civil society and continue to contribute,” said Mr. Luis Guterres.

The vice Prime Minister also said that the former SRSG wants Timor-Leste to recover from last year’s crisis. (TP and STL)

Alkatiri: the Alliance to collapse; Bishop Basilio: a warn to self-improvement

Bishop Basilio said the strong opposition is assisting the Government to move forward.

The Bishop said having a strong critic, such as the Secretary-General of Fretilin, Mari Alkatiri, is a solid warning for the Alliance Government to have a strong future programme.

“The government will be strong when there is a strong opposition. The government should exercise care and it needs to listen to the opposition.

The objective of Alkatiri’s statement is not to make the government collapse, but to improve its performance and exhibit transparency and accountability,” said Bishop Basilio. (TP and STL)

Jose Luis: government has effort to solve Reinado’s case

The Vice Prime Minister Jose Luis Guterres has met with the coordinator of the National Unity Movement for Justice (MUNJ) to discuss the case of Alfredo Reinado.

“We have discussed the problem but we need to be careful not to create expectations that the problem of Reinado or the petititioners will be solved today or tomorrow,” said Mr. Guterres.

He said it’s a complex problem and that the government is working on it. (TP)

Fretilin to conduct national retreat, insist against the position of PM Xanana

Fretilin is having a national retreat on the 28th September in the district of Same and will reflect on the recent situation, including the future political plan for the party.

Arsenio Bano, the vice president of Fretilin said that members of other political parties invited, including the social society to participate the national retreat of Fretilin.

Mr. Bano also said that the national retreat will discuss Fretilin’s rejection against the President’s decision in forming the new government. (TP)

The government gives two options to Alfredo Reinado

The Government has reportedly made the offer of Ermera and Suai district as places for Alfredo Reinado and his groups to stay during the process of dialogue.

The offer has reported been agreed to, but Reinado is yet to nominate in which location he will stay.

During the dialogue, the International Stabilization Forces (ISF) have been requested to stay 20km away from the talks.

The lawyer of Reinado, Benevides Barros said Reinado needs the Catholic Church to mediate the process of dialogue and the Humanitarian Center of Dialogue will be the facilitator of the dialogue. (STL)

The Alliance copying Fretilin’s program

The Fretilin’s MP in the national parliament have voiced their discontent about the Alliance government’s program, which they say is directly copied from the previous government’s programme.

Aniceto Lopes, a Fretilin MP, said the Alliance government has proven its incompetence in developing its own, original programme both during the election campaign and now it’s in Government. (STL)

UNMIT - Security Situation - Tuesday 11 September 2007

This is a broadcast of the UN Police in Timor-Leste to provide you with information about the security situation around the country.

The security situation in Timor-Leste has been calm.

Today in Dili, UNPol attended seven incidents. None of the incidents were major. They included a house on fire in Fatuhada. Police and the fire brigade extinguished the blaze. The house was abandoned and there were no injuries.

Yesterday in Dili, police made three arrests for assault: two in Kampung Baru, and one in Radio Falintil.

In Liquica yesterday, a shop was set on fire in Hafululi sub-village. There were no reports of any injureis. The case has been forwarded to the police investigation unit.

Yesterday in Manatuto, a fight broke out between two groups in Hatobela village. Police attended and brought the fight to an end. One man sustained minor injuries to his hip and was transported to hospital. Police have identified a suspect.

Yesterday in Covalima, police received a report of an assault in Zumalai sub-dsitrict. A man sustained minor wounds from a machete attack. Both the suspect and the victim were drunk a the time. Police have identified the suspect and are investigating further.

Unidentified assailants destroyed the gates to an unoccupied doctor’s quarters early yesterday morning in Ermera. Police are investigating.

United Nations police officers in conjunction with the PNTL and the International Stabilisation Force remain fully deployed to respond to any disturbances that may emerge.

The Police advise to avoid traveling during the night to the most affected areas. Please report any suspicious activities. You can call 112 or 7230365 to contact the police 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Head of UN Mission in Timor-Leste Briefs the Security Council

Dili, September 11, 2007 - The Head of the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT), Atul Khare, has participated in the meeting of the Security Council in New York on Monday 10 September.

The Council met to discuss the Report of the Secretary-General on Timor-Leste which was issued to the council last week and to hear a statement of the new nation’s Foreign Minister Zacarias da Costa.

Mr Khare delivered a message of confidence in Timor-Leste, its people and its leaders, but also stressed that the challenges facing the country are long-term in nature. Poverty and unemployment are a major source of instability, and internal displacement continues. Institutions throughout the country need to be made more resilient. Moreover, whilst elections were carried out in a largely peaceful environment, the security situation is still fragile.

Echoing the recommendations of the Report of the Secretary-General, Mr Khare urged that the UN Police be kept at its present strength, at least until the end of the current mandate in February 2008. This would enable UNMIT simultaneously to maintain security and continue the process for reforming the security sector, including the screening of the Timorese National Police (PNTL).

Welcoming the formation of a new Government in Timor-Leste after recent legislative elections, the Security Council urged the country’s political groups to resolve any differences or disputes through only peaceful channels.

Ambassador Jean-Maurice Ripert of France, which holds the rotating Council presidency this month, said in a statement that the people of Timor-Leste, which the United Nations helped shepherd to independence in 2002, deserved credit “for demonstrating their strong commitment to peace and democracy” by successfully staging the polls.

Mr. Ripert stressed that all parties in Timor-Leste and their supporters must refrain from violence and work through peaceful channels “and within the framework of democratic institutions” to ensure the security of the country.

While in New York Mr Khare also met with Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to discuss the United Nations’ work in Timor-Leste.

Mr Khare will then travel to Washington D.C. to attend the swearing in ceremony for the new US Ambassador for Timor-Leste, Mr Hans Klemm.

Timor: Reinado acusado formalmente de rebelião e homicídios

Diário Digital / Lusa

11-09-2007 7:59:00

O major fugitivo Alfredo Reinado foi formalmente acusado de homicídio, rebelião e posse ilegal de armamento, segundo um despacho do Ministério Público a que a Agência Lusa teve hoje acesso.

O despacho de acusação cita também 16 membros do grupo de Alfredo Reinado, uns indiciados apenas por posse ilegal de arma, outros também acusados de homicídio.

As acusações contra Alfredo Reinado e o seu grupo centram-se nos acontecimentos em Fatuahi, em Maio de 2006, e na vila de Same, em Março de 2007.

Alfredo Reinado, ex-comandante da Polícia Militar timorense (PM), foi detido a 25 de Julho em Díli e evadiu-se a 30 de Agosto da prisão de Becora.

O despacho de acusação a que a Lusa teve acesso, datado de 24 de Agosto, imputa a Alfredo Reinado um crime de rebelião, quatro crimes de homicídio na forma consumada e dez crimes na forma tentada, e em co-autoria com outros arguidos, em relação aos acontecimentos em Fatuahi, nos dias 23 e 24 de Maio de 2006.

Nestas datas, o grupo de Alfredo Reinado emboscou e atacou, sucessivamente, duas viaturas das Falintil-Forças de Defesa de Timor-Leste (F-FDTL) e uma da Polícia Nacional (PNTL).

Alfredo Reinado é referido como «desertor» e todos os elementos do seu grupo são referidos como «ex-militares das F-FDTL» e «ex-agente da PNTL».

O Ministério Público responsabiliza o major Alfredo Reinado pela morte imediata, em Fatuahi, de dois homens do seu grupo, o tenente Cablac e o alferes Noronha, da morte de um elemento da PNTL e do furriel Suconacoles das F-FDTL.

Alfredo Reinado é também acusado de quatro homicídios na forma consumada, em co-autoria com vários arguidos, em relação aos acontecimentos em Same no dia 03 de Março de 2007, data do ataque das Forças de Estabilização Internacionais contra o grupo do major fugitivo.

Todos os elementos do grupo de Alfredo Reinado são acusados de rebelião, por seguirem as ordens do major, considerado o chefe.

Alfredo Reinado «pessoalmente ou através do seu mandatário e de terceiros recusava e punha em causa a autoridade democrática das instituições (do Estado de Timor-Leste), desafiando-as abertamente», acusa o despacho do Ministério Público.

«Até à presente (data), o arguido Alfredo Reinado e os demais arguidos, que continuam todos armados, recusam a entregar-se à justiça», prossegue o despacho, «num claro apelo à sublevação».

A acusação é deduzida contra 17 arguidos.

Além de Alfredo Reinado, são acusados André da Costa Pinto, Rudiano Martins, Joaquim Barreto, Leopoldino Exposto, Martinho de Almeida, José Gomes, António Savio, Inácio Maria da Conceição, Anterilau Ribeiro Guterres, Jaime da Costa, Adolfo da Silva, Egídio Lay de Carvalho, José Soares Araújo ((também conhecido por Sarmento ou Batista), Gilberto Suni Mota, Avelino da Costa.

Todos eles são antigos elementos das F-FDTL e quase todos pertenciam à unidade da PM.

Todos fizeram parte do grupo que se evadiu da prisão de Becora com e «por ordem» de Alfredo Reinado a 30 de Agosto de 2006.

Apenas José Soares foi, até hoje, capturado.

O despacho acusa também Nixon da Costa Galucho, ex-agente da PNTL, detido dois dias após o ataque das ISF a Same, ferido, e que continua em prisão preventiva em Becora.

O despacho de acusação refere a abertura de uma investigação paralela pela Procuradoria do Distrito de Suai para apurar eventual responsabilidade jurídico-penal das ISF pelo ataque a Same.

Das cinco vítimas do ataque a Same, uma continua por identificar, afirmou à Lusa fonte da Procuradoria-Geral da República.

O despacho de acusação refere também a abertura de investigação autónoma sobre a responsabilidade de vários elementos indicados como «desertores» e de outros indicados como pertencendo ao grupo de Alfredo Reinado pelo relatório final da Comissão Especial Independente de Inquérito.

Está neste último grupo Felisberto Garcia, antigo elemento da Unidade de Intervenção Rápida (UIR) da PNTL e que, após vários meses em fuga com Alfredo Reinado no sul do país, entregou a sua arma e passou em Julho a integrar a segurança pessoal do Presidente da República, José Ramos Horta.

Alkatiri visits PKS headquarters

The Jakarta Post
September 11, 2007

JAKARTA: Secretary General of Timor Leste's Fretilin Party Mari Alkatiri visited the Prosperous and Justice Party (PKS) headquarters Monday in an attempt to foster relationships between the two parties.

"We intend to build a close relationship with many parties in Indonesia and we want to show the Timor Leste community that we are able to overcome a crisis and return to normal life," Alkatiri told detik.com.

The former East Timorese premier was welcomed by PKS chairman Tifatul Sembiring and was accompanied by five Fretilin members.

Alkatiri is scheduled Tuesday to attend a general lecture at the Center for Dialog and Corporation among Civilizations. -- JP

PN - Agenda No. 7/II/1a.

Segunda-feira, 13 de Agosto de 2007

A Sessão Plenária de hoje foi presidida pelo Presidente do Parlamento Nacional, Sr. Fernando La Sama de Araújo, coadjuvado pelos Vice Presidentes, Sr. Vicente da Silva Guterres e a Sra. Maria da Paixão de Jesus da Costa, Secretária Maria Terezinha Viegas, Vice-Secretárias, Sra. Maria da Costa Exposto e a Sra. Teresa Maria de Carvalho.


No período da Ordem do Dia, foram abordados os assuntos seguintes:

Informação sobre Comunicação da sra. Deputada Teresa Maria de Carvalho a respeito da destruição de casas, por fogo posto, em Sarmulato, Suco de Uaniuma, Sub-Distrito de Uatucarbau, Distrito de Viqueque
Informação sobre incêndio de salas da Escola de Ira-Ara-Com e tortura de jovem, no Distrito de Lospalos.


No Período da Ordem do Dia teve o anuncio da apresentação do Programa do IV Governo Constitucional.


O Presidente Parlamento Nacional Sr. Fernando La Sama de Araújo fez a sua observação dizendo que este programa é importante para determinar a vida e o desenvolvimento desta nação durante cinco anos, por isso os Deputados vão ter cinco dias para estudar para depois pedir clarificação ao Governo no dia da apresentação deste programa.


Por último o Presidente do Parlamento anuncia oficialmente este programa, que a partir da Quinta-feira, 13 de Setembro do corrente ano no Plenário do Parlamento, iniciará o debate sobre Programa do IV Governo Constitucional.

UN Security Council urges an end to violent attacks in East Timor

The Associated Press
Published: September 10, 2007

UNITED NATIONS: The U.N. Security Council urged East Timor's residents to stop the violent attacks that have broken out since independence hero Xanana Gusmao was appointed prime minister last month.

Supporters of the former ruling Fretilin party were enraged on Aug. 6 when Gusmao was named the head of the government despite the fact Fretilin won the most votes in June elections.

Bands of rampaging youths, some wielding machetes and steel darts and bows, have clashed in the streets, looted business, thrown rocks at police and set fire to homes.

More than 300 homes, schools, aid agencies and offices were burned in two eastern districts, affecting 6,000 people, East Timor's Foreign Minister Zacarias da Costa told the council.

In a statement Monday, the Security Council called on East Timor's rival political parties to work to promote national reconciliation, democracy and sustainable social and economic development.

The Security Council emphasizes the need for all parties to resolve any disputes through exclusively peaceful channels and within the framework of democratic institutions," it read.

East Timor, a former Portuguese colony, broke free from decades of brutal Indonesian rule in 1999 and formally declared statehood three years later. It descended into chaos last April when communal violence left 37 people dead and sent 155,000 people fleeing their homes.

Da Costa said the people's lack of skills and training, coupled with the country's fragile institutions, "undermines the building of a culture of peaceful settlements of conflicts."

"Justice is crucial also for building respect for the rule of law, which is undermined by a widespread perception of lack of accountability," he said.

Security Council welcomes formation of new government in Timor-Leste, expresses readiness to help country tackle critical challenges

Source: United Nations Security Council

Date: 10 Sep 2007

SC/9111

5739th & 5740th Meetings (PM)

Newly Appointed Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
Asks Council to Consider Extending United Nations Mission Mandate through 2012

Welcoming the formation of Timor-Leste's new Government resulting from the 30 June 2007 legislative elections, the Security Council today expressed its readiness to work with the new Government in achieving its goals and tackling critical challenges, including in its development efforts, facing the country.

In a statement readout by its President for September, Jean-Maurice Ripert of France, the Council congratulated the appointment of the new cabinet of Timor-Leste led by Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão, and called upon the Government, Parliament, political parties and the Timorese people to work together and engage in political dialogue and consolidate peace, democracy, rule of law, sustainable social and economic development and national reconciliation in the country.

Congratulating the people of Timor-Leste for demonstrating their strong commitment to peace and security, the Council emphasized the need for all parties to resolve any disputes through exclusively peaceful channels and within the framework of democratic institutions, and called upon the people of Timor-Leste to refrain from violence and work together in order to ensure security.

Expressing appreciation for the role played by the National Commission on Elections, the Technical Secretariat for Electoral Administration and the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) during the presidential and parliamentary election in the country, the Council commended the invaluable support provided for the preparations and holding of the elections by regional and international partners.

The Council also reaffirmed the need for justice and accountability, underlining also the importance of the implementation of the recommendations of the United Nations Independent Special Commission of Inquiry report of 2006.

In an earlier meeting, Zacarias Da Costa, Timor-Leste's newly appointed Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, addressed the Council for the first time, briefing members on the outcome of the just-concluded three-round ballot -- the first national elections run by the Timorese people themselves and an important assertion of their ability of exercising independence. "With UNMIT's extensive support, the presence of international observers and the International Stabilization Force, the elections were peaceful, free, fair and transparent, and a show of the popular display of hope, confidence and enthusiasm."

He noted that the first round of presidential elections had been held on 9 April with a field of eight candidates. A run-off election was held a month later on 9 May. Former Prime Minister José Ramos-Horta had been sworn in as the new President on 30 June, succeeding Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão. The legislative election held on 30 June had been a culmination of the long process, which had begun with the presidential elections. Its result was a true test of Timor-Leste's Constitution and the Timorese political and democratic maturity.

In electing their representatives to the National Parliament, the citizens had clearly expressed their desire for political dialogue and plurality together with stability and national development, he continued. The new 65-seat Parliament had been inaugurated on 30 July with 7 of the 14 parties and coalitions gaining seats. The President of the Parliament had been elected on the same day, while the two Vice-Presidents, a Secretary and two Deputy Secretaries had been elected the following day. Eighteen seats had been occupied by women, which was the largest percentage in the legislature's short history.

On 6 August, President Ramos-Horta had invited CNRT President Gusmão, nominated by the " Alliance with a Parliamentary Majority", a post-electoral coalition of four parties, to be the new Prime Minister and to form a Government. On 8 August, Prime Minister Gusmão had been sworn-in, together with 10 ministers, two of whom were women, and 14 Vice-Ministers and Secretaries of State. On 30 August a further 12 members of Government had been appointed, bringing the total number of women in cabinet to five.

"We profoundly regret the loss of two lives during the electoral period and the serious damages to private and public properties that occurred immediately after," he said. Those tragic episodes were a reminder that the country's emerging democracy needed sustained assistance to consolidate. While there had been a qualitative change between April 2006 and now, the road ahead was still long and challenging. For that reason, Timor-Leste's Government fully accepted and supported the recommendations put forward in the Secretary-General's report.

"Through their vote, the people of Timor-Leste sent a clear message to their leaders that peaceful dialogue and inclusive politics should prevail," he said. Timor-Leste's leaders would facilitate the process by strengthening the democratic institutional framework and ensuring that the fruits of the economic development equally benefited all citizens. All political parties -- those who now formed the Government and those who did not -- pledged to adhere to the fundamental principles of good governance and to support a meaningful role for the opposition after the election. Yet, to achieve those goals, numerous challenges needed to be overcome in the short, medium and long term. The United Nations support would be essential at each step of that tortuous road.

The fragile institutional structure was the major challenge, which, coupled with limited capacity and lack of skills and training, undermined the building of a culture of peaceful settlement of conflicts, he said. Justice was crucial also for building respect for the rule of law, which was undermined by a widespread perception of lack of accountability. In that context, it was essential to solving the Petitioners' issue, as well as clearly defined roles and functions of the PNTL and the F-FDTL, while ensuring adequate civilian oversight mechanisms. The outstanding socio-economic problems included poverty, unemployment, violence against women and humanitarian issues, such as the return of internally displaced persons.

"I believe Timor-Leste is at a crucial moment and should seize the opportunity to build on its recent security and democratic gains," he said. In his inauguration speech, Prime Minister Gusmão had set the short-term priorities of his Government, naming consolidating security as first. That will include solving the Petitioners' issue, the case of Alfredo Reinado and promoting dialogue with the F-FDTL. Also a major pillar of UNMIT's mandate, a stable security environment would serve as the foundation of all further development.

For that reason, interim law enforcement continued to be the priority for the United Nations police, he said. Maintaining the contingent at its current strength would be essential until the present mandate expires. Only a stabilized security situation would allow the subsequent transition from executive policing to the monitoring phase, depending on progress in the PNTL's screening and certification process.

With that in mind, he asked the Council to consider the possibility of extending UNMIT's mandate through 2012. He understood that the head of the Mission foresaw the need for international support, including through the United Nations, and a continuing presence for at least two and a half years after the end of UNMIT's current mandate. He also agreed with UNMIT's chief that a mission with a peacebuilding mandate should be created and should stay in place for five additional years. "I think however, that a peacekeeping mission would need to be in place longer than 2010," he said, adding that Timor-Leste intended to put the investment and ongoing trust of the international community to good use.

He went on to say that this coming Wednesday, the new Government would present its programme to the National Parliament. Among other things, the Government had committed itself to: strengthen the institutional framework, including integrity and professionalism in the civil service, fight against corruption and investment on the education sector; fight against impunity by creating a functional, credible, independent and impartial justice system: reform the security sector; continue the good work done by the previous Governments in the health sectors, with a view to ensuring universal access; and support the professionalism and independence of the media.

"Timor-Leste is poised to participate meaningfully in the family of nations," he said, pledging that the Government would put into practice the universal principles of human rights enshrined in international covenants. Timor-Leste also pledged to work closely with the United Nations, and was determined to reinforce the country's friendship with the countries that were both geographically and historically close to it, like Australia, Indonesia and Portugal. In particular, Timor-Leste and Indonesia were seeking to deal with their past while deepening their friendship.

"Although I am aware that some in this room will not agree with me, the Government of Timor-Leste believes that the best mechanism available to deal with our shared past is the bilateral Commission on Truth and Friendship." He understood the reservations of the United Nations, but encouraged the Organization to reflect on the fact that countries in transition to democracy, as both Indonesia and Timor-Leste were, "must be prudent and sensitive when looking at their own realities".

This afternoon's first meeting began at 3:15 and adjourned at 3:35. The second meeting was called to order at 5:40 and ended at 5:45.

Presidential Statement

Presidential statement S/PRST/2007/33 reads as follows:

"The Security Council welcomes the formation of the Government in Timor-Leste resulting from the 30 June 2007 legislative elections. It also congratulates the appointment of the new cabinet in Timor-Leste led by Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão. The Council further congratulates the people of Timor-Leste for demonstrating their strong commitment to peace and democracy. It expresses its readiness to work with the new Government of Timor-Leste in achieving its goals and tackling critical challenges, including in its development efforts, facing the country.

"The Security Council expresses its appreciation for the role played by the National Commission on Elections, the Technical Secretariat for Electoral Administration and United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) during the presidential and parliamentary elections in Timor-Leste. The Council commends the invaluable support provided for the preparations and holding of the elections by regional and international partners. It also expresses its appreciation for the role played by domestic and international electoral observers.

"The Security Council emphasizes the need for all parties to resolve any disputes through exclusively peaceful channels and within the framework of democratic institutions and calls upon the people of Timor-Leste to refrain from violence and work together in order to ensure security.

"The Security Council calls up on the Government, Parliament, political parties and the people of Timor-Leste to work together and engage in political dialogue and consolidate peace, democracy, rule of law, sustainable social and economic development and national reconciliation in the country. The Security Council reaffirms the need for justice and accountability and underlines the importance of the implementation of the recommendations of the United Nations Independent Special Commission of Inquiry report of 2006.

"The Security Council welcomes the report of the Secretary-General on the work of UNMIT. It also encourages UNMIT to continue to cooperate and coordinate with the United Nations agencies, funds and programmes as well as relevant partners to support the Government of Timor-Leste in implementing a national development plan and addressing challenges facing the country, in particular security sector reform, strengthening of the justice sector, the promotion of democratic governance, resolving the issue of internally displaced persons and the pursuit of sustainable development.

"The Security Council reaffirms its full support for UNMIT in its work, and appreciates the continued efforts by the Secretary-General and his Special Representative to ensure the full implementation of UNMIT."

Background

When the Council met, it had before it the report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (for the period from 27 January to 20 august 2007) (document S/2007/513) that covers major developments in the country and the implementation of the Mission's mandate since the Secretary-General's last report of 1 February (document S/2007/50).

According to the report, the three rounds of elections for which UNMIT provided support, concluded in June in a generally calm security environment, had demonstrated that there has been considerable progress in dialogue and reconciliation since the April-May 2006 crisis. However, with no party winning an absolute majority of seats, the process of forming a new Government was a major challenge. The 6 August announcement by the President on the formation of a mew Government was followed by serious disturbances, illustrating that, despite the increased effectiveness of the UNMIT police, comprised of 1,635 police officers, there are still considerable ongoing challenges to public security in Timor-Leste.

Despite the recent flare-up in tensions, the advances made by the country thus far are considerable, according to the Secretary-General, including continuing progress towards strengthening dialogue and reconciliation, an embracing of the electoral processes and increased respect for rule of law institutions. Those advances will undoubtedly reinforce efforts to strengthen the country's democratic foundations and foster a peaceful future for the entire Timorese people.

The Secretary-General observes that continued efforts to strengthen the culture of truly inclusive and participatory democracy based on rule of law and respect for human rights will be essential for the creation of a stable and prosperous Timor-Leste. He states that there can be no enduring reconciliation without justice. It is critical that a culture of impunity not be allowed to establish itself in the country. All recommendations in the Commission of Inquiry report should be expeditiously implemented. The law on witness protection should be passed and the Prosecutor-General's office should be provided with adequate personnel. As the needs of the sector are substantial, he encourages bilateral partners to provide additional funding for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), so that it can provide the needed support.

Addressing the security sector, the Secretary-General notes that the national police screening process and the reform, restructuring and rebuilding plan will provide a solid foundation for the reconstitution of the police service -- a fragile institution susceptible to politicization. The Ministry of the Interior, the police command and individual police officers must continue to commit themselves to working together, and in partnership with UNMIT, in order to ensure the long-term integrity of the national police force. As the Timorese Armed Forces face some of the same challenges, he strongly encourages the Timorese authorities to adopt a comprehensive and holistic approach to security sector reform.

For the remaining mandate period, until 26 February 2008, UNMIT's focus will begin shifting from interim law enforcement to support for police reform, restructuring and rebuilding in the context of wider security reform, which is an UNMIT priority, the Secretary-General states. In the meantime, UNMIT police will continue to maintain public security, which requires retaining, for the time being, four formed police units. UNMIT's military liaison officers, who have contributed to the stable border situation, will focus more on liaison with the international security forces and the Timorese Armed Forces. UNMIT will rely on a small number of electoral advisers to continue assistance to the Technical Secretariat for Electoral Administration and the National Electoral Commission. UNMIT leadership will also continue good offices efforts to support Timor-Leste's leaders.

Aniceto Guterres - Parliament is just a "mouthpiece" of the CNRT

MEDIA RELEASE
Dili, 10 Setember 2007

ANICETO GUTERRES: PARLIAMENT IS JUST A "MOUTHPIECE" OF THE CNRT GOVERNMENT; PARLIAMENTARY DEMOCRACY HAS DISAPPEARED.

The Executive of the Timor-Leste National Parliament, made up of CNRT and its allies, has become a "lackey" and "mouthpiece/spokesperson" of the CNRT de facto government, despite the President of the National Parliament having stated during his speech following his election as President that the National Parliament would never become the "spokesperson" of the government, said today the Leader of the FRETILIN parliamentary group Aniceto Longuinhos Guterres.

"We have already seen during the elections for the executive of the parliament that they do not have democratic tendencies and do not respect the other parliamentary groupings as the legitimate representatives of the people. They deliberately and vindictively neglected the status of FRETILIN as the most voted party and largest parliamentary grouping. Now, we can see yet again that they do not respect the other parliamentary groupings and they are not willing to abide by the parliamentary regulations, which guarantee to each parliamentarian a voice in the parliament by way of guaranteeing regular weekly plenary sessions of the parliament where each can have a say," said Guterres.

On the 7th of September, Notice No. 4/SAPLEN/II, was emitted on behalf of the parliamentary executive following a meeting of the representatives of the parliamentary groupings last Wednesday, 6 th of September, decreeing that the regular plenary sessions for today and tomorrow had been suspended. However, FRETILIN contends that this notice contravened the parliament's own regulations, which stipulates that plenary sessions of the parliament shall take place every Monday and Tuesday, and FRETILIN has questioned the parliamentary executive's motives behind this suspension of the plenary sessions.

"They have suspended the plenary sessions because they do not want FRETILIN or the other parties to raise in the plenary today or tomorrow the many worrying questions which have already arisen regarding the proposed government program. It is important to note that the proposed government program document itself was also delivered to the parliamentarians via the back door; that is without being properly formally tabled in the plenary session of the parliament which by rights it should have been. They have clearly acknowledged this mistake and have scheduled the tabling of the government program for a plenary to be held tomorrow," added Guterres.

Guterres also made it clear that as the Leader of the FRETILIN grouping, during the meeting of the representatives of the parliamentary groupings which took place on the 6 th of September last, he requested that the plenary sessions to commence to discuss the government program should be scheduled for the 17th of September next, in order to give four more days in which the members of parliament could analyze the government program, also ensuring that the debate could be more fruitful.

"As we see it the proposed time frame is too short because we only received a photocopy of the Portuguese version of the government program document last Friday afternoon, almost evening. Many of the members of parliament from all parties are new and have a limited command of Portuguese. They have not had enough time to properly analyze the government program. Many have never even seen a government program before. Despite our having insisted on a number of occasions, the last one being on Saturday the 8 th of September, for the plenary session to debate the government program to be scheduled for the 17th, the executive of the parliament insist that it should be scheduled for the 13th of September next. This is because they are being pressured from all sides to adhere to the 13 th of September date," said Guterres.

"The FRETILIN grouping will attend the parliament this morning and tomorrow, because as we see it the plenary sessions have not been suspended in accordance with the parliamentary regulations, as it is only by a deliberation of the plenary of parliament that the plenary sessions may be suspended or scheduled for alternate dates. We have attended today, in this the people's house, because we do not accept this disrespect shown for the parliamentary regulations. We have come today to raise and discuss the many important issues which affect our people right now, in accordance with our right as the representatives of the people exercised through the plenary and in accordance with the regulations of the parliament," clarified Guterres.

"Yet again we can see clearly that despite their lip service to promoting high democracy, the practicing of politics of inclusion and heightened respect for rights of our people, they do not really respect the people because they have shown a lack of respect for the groupings and their right to sit in parliament during the plenary sessions during those times safeguarded by the parliament's regulations."

"The parliament has become the mouthpiece of the government. They need not try to represent that it is otherwise. This is a very regressive step for our new legislature. FRETILIN will do everything within its power to oppose these actions by the parliamentary executive, actions which are manifest in devaluing the role of the parliament and a blatant disrespect of parliament as the representative of the people," concluded Guterres.

Contacts: José Teixeira (+670) 728 7080, or email: fretilin.media@gmail.com

East Timor Studies Graduate Summer School at ANU (

Via ETAN) – Mon, 10 Sep 2007 07:12
via Timor Leste Studies Association Mailing List

The East Timor Studies Graduate Summer School is a week long period of workshops and research activities designed to bring together young scholars who are working on East Timor. The Summer School will be held at the campus of The Australian National University in Canberra from 29 January to 1 February 2008, and is open to participants from within and outside Australia. The program is still provisional at this stage. If you wish to take part you should let the program convenor know as soon as possible.

The program will showcase the work of young East Timor scholars in a formal setting and will include seminars, roundtable discussions, guest lectures as well as library visits and cultural events. The program also aims to provide students with an opportunity to use the rich resources held at the ANU library and the National Library of Australia. The East Timor Studies Graduate Summer School is open to honours-level and postgraduate students as well as recently completed post-doctoral students currently enrolled in any tertiary institution inside or outside Australia. Advanced undergraduates may also wish to attend as observers.

ANU Asia Pacific Week

The Summer School will take place as part of the University's Asia Pacific Week. This is designed to provide a forum for building networks among postgraduate scholars through exchange of knowledge and experiences surrounding the study of the Asia Pacific region. The 2008 East Timor Summer School is to be held in conjunction with summer schools in China Studies, Thai Studies, Indonesian Studies, Japan Studies, South Asia Studies and Vietnamese Studies. The Asia-Pacific week will feature special events such as keynote speeches, films, performances and exhibitions. Participants in the East Timor sessions will interact with participants from other summer schools in combined social functions and there will also be an opportunity for discipline-based groups from across the range of Asian Studies to meet on the Wednesday afternoon of the summer school.

Accommodation

Participants from outside Canberra will be housed at John XXIII College on the campus of the ANU. Meals will be provided as part of an accommodation package for participants who are successful in gaining a scholarship.

Applications

A number of scholarships will be provided to offset the cost of accommodation (single room plus three meals per day) and to provide an allowance for travel for participants. It is unlikely that there will be enough funds available to cover all the costs of travel, so participants are also encouraged to seeking supplementary funding from their own institutions. Participants in Asia-Pacific Week 2008 will be accommodated at John XXIII on the ANU campus. Applicants are required to submit an application form to John Bowden no later than 30 September 2007.

Applicants will be advised about the success of their applications in early October. Application forms are available on the Asia Pacific Week website:
http://rspas.anu.edu.au/asiapacificweek/

Looking forward to seeing some of you in Canberra in January
John

Rescuing people

BBC – Monday, 10 September 2007
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/shared/spl/hi/picture_gallery/07/asia_pac_e_timor0s_angel_of_mercy/html/4.stm

Since East Timor's independence in 2002, factional fighting has wracked the country and driven thousands from their homes.

Many have fled to Sister Guillermina's convent in Dili.

Sister Guillermina is a university lecturer, but spends much of her time running the camp for people sheltered in the Canossian Sisters of Charity convent.

Tom Greenwood photographed and interviewed the nun known for rescuing people caught up in fighting and stepping in to reason with violent gang members.

Leader of Timor Leste’s Fretilin Party visiting RI Jakarta

Antara - 09/10/07 21:36

- The leader of Timor Leste’s Fretilin Party, Mari Alkatiri, is currently visitng Indonesia to meet and hold dialogs with local political parties and other organizations.

At a meeting between him and Tifautul Sembiring, chairman of the Muslim-based Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) here Monday, the two sides agreed to step up two-way communications and explore the possibility of closer cooperation in the future.

Tifatul said after the meeting, " We had a dialog just now and I think it would be good for our two parties to cooperate with the purpose of building for the future."

He said at the present stage the two parties would first increase their two-way communications.

"We will first communicate with each other. We do not know yet what the cooperation will be like. Well, we will just correspond with each other first," he said.

Asked about the difference in ideology between the two parties, Tifatul said the spirit of his meeting with Alkatiri was building dialog for a better future.

"He (Mari Alkatiri) just now also admitted that his party’s ideology was socialism and not all in his delegation were Moslems," he said.

Tifatul further said that besides giving a lecture to Muhammadiyah (Islamic organization) Alkatiri during his visit here also wished to show that Fretilin still existed although it failed to win the posts of president and prime minister in Timor Leste’s recent general elections.

"Because as you know, Indonesia’s views will somehow always affect the political situation in Timor Leste," Tifatul quoted Alkatiri as saying.

Separately, Mari Alkatiri meanwhile said that his intention to meet leaders of several organizations and political parties in Indonesia was to hold dialogs and share experience as well as provide information on the latest developments in his country.

"The people of Timor Leste believe that if they can overcome all their present challenges, they will sooner or later recover and become a normal state," he said.

The former Timor Leste prime minister also explained that his party had built good relations with various parties in Indonesia and was trying to increase bilateral communications.

He also hoped that cooperation between Moslems in the two countries would develop well.
There are around 3,000 Moslems in predominantly Catholic Timor Leste. They have always lived in harmony with the rest of the people and are never discriminated against. Their Idul Fitri and Idul Adha holy days have also been declared national holidays.

Relatório sobre situação em Timor-Leste apresentado hoje nas Nações Unidas

Lusa/Público - 10.09.2007 - 09h24

Melhoria da segurança, embora ainda com picos de violência

O relatório do representante especial da ONU em Díli, que indica uma melhoria da segurança em Timor-Leste, embora ainda "sujeita a picos de violência", é hoje apresentado no Conselho de Segurança das Nações Unidas.

No relatório, que hoje é discutido numa reunião do Conselho de Segurança da ONU, Atul Khare sublinha que, apesar dos progressos, os incidentes que se sucederam ao anúncio do novo governo, a 6 de Agosto último, demonstram que as divisões políticas "ainda não foram ultrapassadas", o que gera uma situação "ainda volátil".

A reconciliação nacional passa, segundo o documento de 17 páginas, pelo entendimento entre os diferentes líderes políticos, que já se comprometeram em juntar esforços e vontades para que haja um diálogo sério nesse sentido.

Congratulando-se com o "êxito" das eleições gerais timorenses - presidenciais e legislativas -, o relatório adianta que é agora "essencial" existir vontade política para a reconciliação nacional.
"O êxito das eleições presidenciais e legislativas indicam que os esforços para ultrapassar a crise de 2006 estão a registar progressos. (...) No entanto, o processo que levou à formação de um novo governo e os distúrbios que se lhe seguiram demonstram que nem todas as divisões estão ainda resolvidas", afirma Atul Khare.

"Será essencial continuar os esforços para fortalecer uma cultura de verdade inclusiva, baseada na administração de lei e do respeito pelos Direitos Humanos, de forma a criar um país estável e próspero", refere o relatório, que analisa o período vivido no país entre 27 de Janeiro e 20 de Agosto deste ano.

No entanto, o representante especial de Ban Ki-moon ressalvou que tal objectivo não pode ser dissociado de uma boa aplicação da Justiça, lembrando que é "crucial evitar" que se estabeleça uma "cultura de impunidade" no país.

Nesse sentido, são necessárias medidas adicionais neste domínio e, entre elas, propõe a aprovação de uma lei de protecção de testemunhas e a contratação de mais pessoal com devida formação para o Ministério Público.

A formação de um corpo nacional de polícia e o plano de reforma, reestruturação e reconstrução das forças de segurança vão permitir, no entender de Atul Khare, "reconstituir o serviço policial".

O relatório chama ainda a atenção para os desafios humanitários "ligados à prolongada crise interna".

"Não há nenhuma solução de curto prazo para os deslocados (cerca de um décimo - 100.000 - da população timorense) e uma eventual resolução depende grandemente do prolongamento da estabilidade política e do diálogo e das reformas legais nas áreas da Justiça e da segurança", sustenta.