Speech by H.E. Dr. José Ramos-Horta
Senior Minister
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation
Minister for Defence
At the Security Council
New York, Tuesday 13th June 2006
Mr. President,
I offer my sincere apologies to you and to the Members of the Security Council for my absence, but the demands for my presence in Timor-Leste at this time are extensive. H.E. Ambassador Jose Luis Guterres, Timor-Leste’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, will deliver my speech before your august body.
As you meet I am visiting rural areas of the country, covering East and West, continuing to take the State to the people. I am also able to listen to their needs and communicate them back to our President and our Government. I have also addressed our National Parliament, upon the invitation of the President of the Parliament.
I thank you Mr. President and the Members for your continued concern for the people of Timor-Leste and for your resolution, (SC/8728) of 24 May 2006, that gave international legitimacy to the deployment of the multi-national forces of Australia, Malaysia, and New Zealand.
On behalf of all Timorese, I offer profuse thanks to the Joint Task Force (JFT 631), all of whom were able to respond promptly and efficiently to quickly quell the violence. However the forces were not able to prevent the extensive looting and burning and displacement of tens of thousands of Timorese, as law and order broke down in some quarters, with the earlier disintegration of the Policia Nacional of Timor-Leste (PNTL) in Dili.
I also offer profuse thanks to Portugal, who from a great distance, showed no hesitation in deploying their elite police force the GNR. The Timorese people’s experience of the GNR under UNTAET was a positive one and the GNR’s presence has been demanded from every sector of the Timorese society. It is our desire that in a new UN Mission, the GNR will play a vital role in law and order. We are equally grateful that Malaysia has made available a similar Rapid Reaction Police Force.
The humanitarian situation has been managed very well by our Minister for Labour and Community Reinsertion, H.E. Arsenio Bano who chairs the Inter-Agency Humanitarian Coordination Working Group that includes other Government Ministries and Agencies, the UN Country Team, IOM, INGOs, NGOs and specific sector working group heads. In a very short time along with Minister Bano, they were able to mobilise and provide services to the large number of IDPs. I thank OCHA for their coordination assistance and for the launch yesterday in Dili, New York and Geneva of the Flash Appeal. A special reference is made to our impressive efforts of our Church that has provided shelter and care to tens of thousands of people.
East Timorese and foreign doctors and nurses, including Cubans and Chinese have performed and continue their admirable duties. We are grateful to all.
We note with deep appreciation the bilateral assistance from our friends, including our closest neighbour Indonesia, who in its own time of suffering caused by natural disasters, reached out to Timor-Leste, with the delivery of much needed humanitarian aid.
The international forces on the ground are continuing their efforts to collect weapons from individuals. Through voluntary surrender or through enforced confiscation close to 1,000 assorted weapons have been collected.
Pursuant to a decision of the Supreme Council of Defence and Security, on Friday 9th June, our own Defence Force, the F-FDTL, participated and assisted in the commencement of a ‘Weapons Inventory Inspection Operation’, undertaken with an international observation team comprising Military Personnel from Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Portugal, the United States and UNOTIL. The preliminary reports I have received indicate its success.
The second part of the operation concerns the PNTL and will take place this week Members of the PNTL have begun to surrender their weapons and have voluntarily agreed to be cantoned in Dili and handing over their weapons to the Australian Defence Forces. By this week’s end, the new Minister of Interior will submit to H.E. President Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, a complete list of all weapons in the PNTL official inventory. This list will be checked against existing weapons in use by PNTL officers or in the armory.
This level of cooperation would not have been possible without my President. His moral standing and influence among all sectors of Timorese society is high. He was pivotal in preventing irregular armed forces, “reservists”, from leaving Baucau for Dili in the last week of May to join the violent disturbances. My President’s leadership has been fundamental to the stabilisation process
The graveness of our current crisis causes me great sadness; however, I take this opportunity to assure Members that the situation is redeemable. The good work that the United Nations and the international community, with the Timorese leadership and Timorese people have done, has taken root in the form of state institutions that have had the capacity to continue operations, even during the height of the current crisis.
Ministries and associated agencies have continued to function, contrary to some media reports that have us as a failing state. These include but are not limited to the following: The Presidency, Health, Labour and Community Reinsertion, State Administration, Agriculture, Education, Justice (who is working alongside the JTF in the area of detention, investigation and prosecutions), Telecommunications including EDTL and Timor Telecom who kept the electricity, telephone and internet services working throughout, RTTL the National television and radio broadcaster, Customs, the Port Authority which is doubling as a Military HQ, air services, and my own Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Defence.
Timor-Leste’s inaugural petroleum exploration bid round was completed on 22 May 2006, when the Prime Minister announced the winners of the bid with the publication of the Evaluation Commission’s final report.
Many shops and restaurants are open, many stayed open, and some taxis and microlets continue to operate. The fact that the private sector continues alongside the public sector is indicative of our gains so far.
The Government has kept the 2006-2007 budget process on track and I wish to provide Members with some specific detail, as it demonstrates the Government’s competence in this regard and also responsiveness to the needs of the people, and particularly in rural development.
The Council of Ministers meets tomorrow to consider a revised State Budget in 2006-07, expected to exceed $US315m and in check with the State's sustainable income levels. This is in addition to $US140m donor assistance for development. $U110m will be allocated to Capital and Development and $US50 million for Public Works.
Projects and initiatives include some of the following:- Construction of Transmission towers for territory wide public broadcasting-Water Supply-New Dili Police headquarters-Police Border posts-Five youth centres-Sports centres-Counterpart funds for referral hospitals in Baucau, Maliana, Oe-Cusse and Suai-Rehabilitation of District Health Posts-Veterans housing-New Customs posts in Batugade, Atauro, Com, Bobometo, Tunu Bibi-Counterpart funds for a new Ferry and port service between Dili, Atauro and Oe-Cusse- Extension of the electrical grid to various areas in the Districts
-$3m capital to establish a rural credit agency
-$US11 million public grants across public-private sector and personal benefit payments and community priorities to determine minor rehabilitative works and minor equipment for schools
-Public grants to Churches and NGO’s that provide community and humanitarian assistance
-$US2 million pension fund for former combatants recognised for their services during the independence struggle -50% adjustment for employees in isolated areas and an increase in catering and other services in these areas-$US8 million for food security in the Ministry of Development with additional funds for equipment for fishermen, and tractors and other motorized equipment to improve agricultural productivity-$5 million to subsidise Government lowered electricity prices to consumers-Lastly all public sector workers will receive a cost of living adjustment to cover cost increases in fuel and food.
I should make a distinction for the Members about the areas of Timor-Leste affected by the crisis. It is primarily limited to the capital Dili, while the other twelve districts have continued to function with all services operating including the PNTL police service whose basic infrastructure stayed intact in the districts. There is of course no guarantee that an outbreak of violence won’t happen in the regions whilst the country is in a politically precarious state.
The border area that Timor-Leste shares with Indonesia has remained calm. I have visited the border on three occasions in the past month, the last visit being of three days duration and I was accompanied by H.E. Mr. Ahmed Bey Sofwan the Indonesian Ambassador to Timor-Leste. I thank the Indonesian authorities for assisting us in keeping our common border area safe and stable.
I came back inspired by the PNTL Border Patrol Unit’s (PBU) professionalism, as well as the military forces operating on the Indonesian side. I was however concerned with the poor living conditions of our police, an incomprehensible neglect by our own government.
Mr. President, I wish to inform Members of our initiatives vis-à-vis political dialogue, as political peace is as necessary to democratic health as is physical security. I have been in contact with every key person and group in the conflict, on more than one occasion. My President has begun to meet each individual and group directly involved in the conflict, as the first step in reaching an all inclusive political dialogue, which all have agreed to. The all inclusive dialogue will commence within the next two weeks, with the arrangements in place by week’s end. It will be co-chaired by my President and our two Bishops, of Dili and Baucau.
President Xanana has provided leadership in securing the agreement of all key individuals and groups, that an all inclusive dialogue was the approach needed to resolve political problems and further that all political problems needed to be resolved within our constitutional framework. This recognition demonstrates a commitment to the democratic culture that has begun to take root in Timor-Leste.
Parallel to the all inclusive dialogue, will be the Special Inquiry Commission that Timor-Leste has requested, as outlined in my letter to the Secretary General of 9th June 2006. The President, the Prime Minister, the Government, F-FDTL, PNTL, Religious Leaders and Civil Society all welcome an impartial and independent inquiry, as an important step in reaching a settlement and upholding the rule of law. It is our fervent desire that the Special Inquiry Commission commence immediately. In the interim, the Australian side through its Federal Police Service in with the Prosecutor General’s Office is undertaking preliminary work to secure some crime scenes and preserve evidence.
Members would be aware that I have taken on the sensitive portfolio of Defence. My motivation in accepting, and I cannot but say as a Nobel Peace Laureate I am a most reluctant Defence Minister, is to lift the standing of the F-FDTL and to help heal the wounds between the F-FDTL and the PNTL and both forces and the community.
While peace has been restored overall, the security and law and order situation remains precarious. It is acknowledged by all that our institutions of state and our democratic culture is fragile. It is however, our considered view, that sustained international support by way of a UN Police Force under UN command and with PNTL working under its auspice, as outlined in the letter to the Secretary General of 11 June 2006, on this matter, signed by my President, President of the Parliament and my Prime Minister, needs to be deployed without delay.
Mr. President, before I turn to the needs of a new UN Mission, I wish to reiterate that we Timorese are deeply indebted to the deploying countries, but as the emergency situation is nearing an end, it is important that our attention turns to the issue of transition to a peace-keeping force under the UN umbrella, as was the case with InterFET in 1999.
We believe that it is essential to have an international presence under the UN Flag to reduce political and diplomatic tensions; hence it is our considered view that the current force in Timor-Leste should in due course replaced by a UN mandated peace-keeping force.
It is also our considered view that the current force and its successor, as indeed other components of a new UN Mission, should also comprise a greater number of countries in the region, including we would hope from our friends in Fiji, Singapore, Thailand, The Philippines, and the Republic of Korea and other countries that stand ready to contribute to such a force. We were very proud that an ASEAN country, namely Malaysia, came to us in our time of need and were able to respond as quickly and professionally. We are most grateful to Malaysia and other ASEAN countries that have indicated a willingness to respond.
I want to caveat what I say about a new UN Mission with the reality that we have not been able to undertake a comprehensive needs assessment of such a mission. It is our intention to enter into detailed discussions with the UN on this matter in the immediate future. I can though offer some preliminary comments that add to our request for a UN International Police Force and the Special Inquiry Commission.
Firstly, the time frame has to be long enough to enable our state institutions to move beyond the fragile stage, consistent with being an infant state. Regarding UNTAET we were all hopeful that its two year life span would be sufficient to help build a nation, and I have to say some in my own Government were also keen to have the UN gone, not for any other reason than they were keen to have independence as soon as possible.
I had favoured a five year UN Mission with a five year transition time, which was not a popular position then, but I would request that this position be factored into thinking that will guide the establishment of a new UN Mission. As respected Members know, it is a Herculean task to build a nation almost from scratch and whilst we have succeeded, it is an infant nation we now have. Collectively we did a remarkable job of nation building, initially under the stewardship of the late Sergio Veira De Mello..
The main focus of the UN Mission will be the maintenance of secure environment, that involves inter alia, a multinational military presence, a UN Police Force, a UN organised, administered and conducted presidential and parliamentary elections and key civilian advisory positions, with some embedded in government administration alongside capacity building positions, so that our state institutions can be strengthened, along with civil society.
I wish to place on public record a sincere thank you to the SRSG H.E. Sukehiro Hasegawa, for his good work during the current crisis. Mr. Hasegawa has also served the people of Timor-Leste in an exemplary and selfless manner and he has a special place in our hearts, as indeed do our friends from Japan, Mr. Hasegawa’s home country, who have made a great contribution to our country.
I want to also thank the UN Police for their wonderful efforts in attempting to broker a peaceful resolution to a very critical situation on the 25 May, and wish to convey to them our profound thanks. We deeply empathise with you, but say you acted professionally and selflessly and in the best traditions of the civil servants of the UN. We salute you.
The decision is in your hands Mr. President. We require your sustained engagement and we the people of Timor-Leste await your consideration.
May God, the Almighty and the Merciful Bless you all.
.
quinta-feira, junho 15, 2006
Discurso do Ministro Ramos-Horta ao CS das Nações Unidas
Discurso do Presidente Xanana no Parlamento
Alocução de S.E. o Presidente da República, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão no Parlamento Nacional
14 de Junho de 2006
Excelência, Senhor Presidente do Parlamento Nacional Senhores Chefes das Bancadas Distintos Deputados
O nosso País e o Povo, que nos elegeu para o servir, estão a passar por uma situação indesejável e todos temos que reflectir séria e honestamente sobre isso.
Não temos outra alternativa, senão medir os actos políticos que viemos praticando, consciente ou inconscientemente, e que contribuiram para que o Povo viesse a sofrer mais uma vez, como resultado da nossa falta de capacidade política para resolver os problemas que chegaram às nossas mãos e que não pudemos ou não quisemos decifrar com o nosso conhecimento sobre a realidade de Timor-Leste.
Não acuso ninguém! Chamo a atenção ao Estado, chamo a atenção a todos os órgãos de Soberania da RDTL para um rigoroso exame de consciência, porque temos que prestar contas ao nosso povo.
Aqui, neste Salão Nobre, por várias ocasiões, tive a oportunidade dealertar para a possibilidade de sermos nós, os timorenses, a provocar a morte de outros timorenses. Também alertei as consciências de que não deveríamos permitir que o nosso povo viesse a ser vítima, de novo, de conflitos armados e da violência política.
Quando, em finais de 2001, a Assembleia Constituinte redigia a Constituição da República, eu era um cidadão comum, sem nenhuma actividade ou inlfuência política sobre o processo. A partir de 20 de Maio de 2002, sou o Presidente da República e coube-me ser o guardião da Constituição. E ser guardião da Constituição da República significa, basicamente, defender o Estadode Direito Democrático. Seja a contento de uns e a descontento de outros, vou continuar a cumprir este dever sagrado de defender o Estado de Direito Democrático, até ao fim do meu mandato, em Maio de 2007. E fá-lo-ei sem vacilar e o povo pode ter essa certeza.
Senhor Presidente Distintos Deputados
Todos comprovámos que o Estado ficou paralisado por toda a situação que ocorreu em Dili e, pior do que isto, a população está a sofrer as consequências da violência e destruição que se geraram.
Devo saudar as ONGs internacionais e as nacionais que se multiplicaram em esforços para aliviar o sofrimento do povo. Devo saudar também oimportante trabalho desenvolvido pelo Rev. Bispo de Dili, D. Alberto Ricardo, osRev.dos Pes. e as Rev. Madres, em não só acolher mas assistir psicologicamente as populações, motivando-as a acreditar firmemente que tudo acabará em bem, na estabilidade e paz que serão duradouras para a nossa terra.
Não quero deixar esta oportunidade de, em nome do Povo de Timor-Leste, expressar a nossa solidariedade para com o povo irmão indonesio e a nossasimpatia para as vítimas do terramoto que ocorreu em Yogyakarta, causando a morte a dezenas de milhares de pessoas. Embora, enfrentando estes problemas causados por um desastre natural, o Presidente Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, em nome do Estado, do Governo e do Povo indonésio, teve um gesto magnífico de nos dar a mão, para aliviarmos o sofrimento do nosso próprio povo. Quero aqui manisfestar a nossa mais profunda gratidão e acredito profundamente que oslaços de amizade e cooperação entre os dois países se tornarão, no futuro, cada vez mais fortes.
Espero que o Parlamento Nacional me não impeça de ir, no próximo sábado, a Bali, para manifestar pessoalmente ao Presidente Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono os nossos sentimentos, aqui expressos.
Senhor Presidente Distintos Deputados
Esta crise sacudiu-nos a todos, lembrando-nos que algo esteve errado. Em política, o não reconhecimento de um erro, por pequeno que seja, pode conduzir-nos a cometer maiores erros. Só a tomada de consciência de que algo não funcionou bem, pode habilitar-nos a corrigir e a melhorar.
Estamos perante uma repetição, embora em menor escala, de Setembro de 1999, que nos forçou a pedir a intervenção internacional das Forças de Defesa e Segurança de países amigos. E isto devia arrepiar-nos, a todos quantos fomos eleitos por este povo, para garantir estabilidade, segurança e as melhores condições de vida a todos os cidadãos.
Fui, desde o início, contrário à participação de fora na solução dos nossos problemas, porque nós deveriamos assumir esta responsabilidade. Mas acedi, finalmente, porque a situação desenvolvia-se já fora da nossa capacidade decontrolo. Estamos gratos pela prontidão com que a Austrália, Nova Zelandia, Malásia e Portugal, responseram ao nosso pedido e verificámos que, dia após dia, essas Forças internacionais vêm fazendo um admirável trabalho, na reposição gradual da normalidade.
Mas teremos que considerar esta intervenção para um período mais longo do que supùnhamos, por vários motivos, mas sobretudo pela constatação de que existem armas em mãos de civis. E o grande problema é de que, em quase todo o território, foram já ouvidos tiros, como que para nos chamar a atenção desta gravíssima realidade.
Estamos em coordenação com o Comandante das Forças, Brigadeiro Slater, no sentido de olhar já para a outra fase de acção que seria estendida até aos distritos, porque não podemos permitir que a população do interior do país viva num clima de insegurança e de medo, sob a ameaça de perda de vidas ebens, como aconteceu em Díli.
No passado domingo, dia 11, o próprio Presidente do Parlamento Nacional, o Primeiro Ministro e eu próprio assinámos uma carta, dirigida ao Secretário-Geral da ONU, no sentido de pedir uma força robusta com componentes militar, policial e civil, para a consolidação deste processo de estabilização do país, para o depois da UNOTIL. Pediu-se também para ser considerado o prolongamento daUNOTIL, por mais um mês, a partir de 20 de Junho em curso. A Força Policialdas Nações Unidas ficará em Timor-Leste por um período não inferior a um ano, tendo em conta já as eleições em 2007. Levantou-se também a possibilidade de uma Força Militar das Nações Unidas, caso for necessário para assegurar que as armas em mãos de civis sejam todas recolhidas.
Já se concordou que virá um Raporteur Especial para investigar o caso de 28 de Abril, haverá uma Investigação dirigida ao caso de 25 de Maio, assim como a todos os outros relevantes casos como o combate em Fatu Ahi e o combate em Tasi Tolu. Concordou-se com uma Investigação Internacional sobre tudo isso.
Distintos Deputados
Apelo a todos para concentramos os esforços na reactivação das actividades do Estado. O Orçamento vai ser enviado para o debate no Parlamento e eu peço especial atenção nisso. O tempo foge e a necessidade de responder aos problemas que o povo atravessa tem deveras um carácter de urgência. Existe um aumento substancial no orçamento para cerca de 312 milhões. Na rubrica das ‘transferências’ (public grant), existem vários fundos, como, de solidariedade, desenvolvimento comunitário, de crédito rural, de habitação, para actividades sociais, para além de 8 milhões para a segurança alimentar e 10 milhões para a reconstrução de casas, incendiadas nestas últimas semanas. Há ainda um aumento de sálarios, cuja percentagem será equivalente aos diversos níveis da escala salarial e um subsidio de isolamento, para as actividades de controle fronteiriço.
Vamos todos continuar a exigir transparência ao Governo no manejo desses fundos, para que saibamos que, na verdade, o dinheiro ou os benefícios foram parar às mãos da população.
Para terminar, quero informar que, com o Primeiro Ministro, chegámos a um compromisso político quanto ao Código Penal. Eu promulgaria o Código Penal, com a difamação continuando a ser criminalizada, mas apenas com a pena de multa e não de prisão. A autorização parlamentar, concedida ao Governo, para a elaboração do Código Penal já prescrevia a criminalização da difamação.
Para que o Governo recomponha os artigos concernentes à difamação, dentro do principio colocado atrás, o Governo vai muito brevemente pedir ao Parlamento Nacional a prorrogação do prazo da autorização legislativa anterior, e que terminará com a publicação do Código Penal no Jornal da República que, penso, será em breve.
Assim, agradeço a vossa maior ligeireza no que toca a prorrogação do prazo dessa autorização legislativa.
A todos, o meu muito obrigado.
quarta-feira, junho 14, 2006
Comunicado - Conselho de Ministros
SECRETARIA DE ESTADO DO CONSELHO DE MINISTROS
COMUNICADO À IMPRENSA
Reunião do Conselho de Ministros de 14 de Junho de 2006
O Conselho de Ministros reuniu-se esta quarta-feira, 14 Junho, na Sala de Reuniões do Conselho de Ministros, no Palácio do Governo, em Dili, tendo aprovado os seguintes diplomas:
1. Proposta de Lei de Autorizacão Legislativa em Matéria Penal
O Governo aprovou um diploma legislativo que propõe ao Parlamento Nacional a Prorrogação do prazo da autorizacão legislativa concedida pela Lei n.° 16/2005, de 16 de Setembro (Autorizacão legislativa em matéria penal).
Com esta proposta de lei pretende-se que o Parlamento Nacional permita ao Governo rever o seu projecto de Codigo de Penal, passando a prever a punição dos crimes de injúria e difamação com pena de multa, em vez de pena de prisão.
2. Reapreciação da proposta de Lei do Orçamento Geral do Estado, para o Ano Fiscal 2006/07
O Conselho de Ministros tornou a debater o Orçamento Geral para o Ano Fiscal 2006/07.
Tendo em conta os acontecimentos recentes em Timor-Leste, o Governo resolveu ajustar a sua proposta de orçamento, nas rubricas de salários e vencimentos para o valor de USD$38 milhões, de bens e serviços para USD$123 milhões, capital e desenvolvimento para USD$120 milhões, capital menor para USD$19 milhões e transferências para USD$15 milhões.
O valor final da proposta de Orçamento a apresentar ao Parlamento Nacional totaliza o valor de USD 315 milhões, que representa um aumento de 122 por cento em relação ao orçamento do corrente ano fiscal, de USD$141,4 milhões.
De uma vez por todas, entenderam?!
GUSMAO TO UP HOLD CONSTITUTION
14.6.2006. 17:04:15
East Timor's popular president Xanana Gusmao vowed to uphold the constitution amid speculation he may dissolve parliament in a bid to end weeks of crisis in the tiny nation.
"From 20 May, 2002 onwards, I have been the president of the republic and it is incumbent upon me to be the guardian of the constitution," he said in his first address to parliament since East Timor was hit by violence last month.
"And to be a guardian of the constitution of the republic basically means to safeguard the democratic state based on the rule of law," he said.
"To the happiness of some and to the discontent of others I will continue to fulfil the sacred duty of safeguarding the democratic state, based on the rule of law, until the end of my mandate in May 2007, and I will do so unwaveringly and the people can be sure of that," Mr Gusmao said.
…
They were hoping to come up with a proposal that would allow Mr Gusmao to dissolve parliament and appoint a transitional government by suspending part of the constitution.
Mr Gusmao, a political rival of Mr Alkatiri's, has not commented directly on whether he supports their plans but his speech suggested that he would not be agreeing to go along with them.
…
SOURCE: AAP/ AFP
Dos leitores
O Procurador-Geral é uma das peças fundamentais para o regular funcionamento do sistema judicial.Em Timor é generalizada a opinião de que o actual Procurador-Geral em lugar de acautelar o cumprimento da lei acautela os seus interesses pessoais. O PR terá que proceder à sua substituição para que o povo possa ter acesso à justiça!
PE vai defender reforço da missão da ONU e mais apoios da UE
Estrasburgo, França, 14 Jun (Lusa) - O Parlamento Europeu vai adoptar q uinta-feira, em Estrasburgo, uma resolução sobre Timor-Leste na qual reclama o r eforço da missão das Nações Unidas no território e mais apoios da comunidade int ernacional e da União Europeia (UE).
O texto de proposta da resolução comum acordado entre as diversas famíl ias políticas da assembleia, ao qual a Agência Lusa teve acesso, aponta também p ara o envio de uma delegação do Parlamento Europeu a Timor-Leste no próximo Outo no, para avaliar a situação política e examinar a adequação dos programas de ass istência da UE.
A resolução sublinha que o papel desempenhado pela comunidade internaci onal, e em particular a ONU e o seu Conselho de Segurança, é de "importância vit al" para o processo de consolidação da democracia na "jovem nação" de Timor-Lest e.
Nesse sentido, defende que "o processo de gradual redução da missão das Nações Unidas em Timor-Leste ao longo dos últimos quatro anos tem de ser invert ido", e solicita o envio urgente de uma força policial sob os auspícios das Naçõ es Unidas para ajudar a restaurar a estabilidade no país.
A resolução sublinha a necessidade de, no respeito pela soberania das a utoridades de Timor-Leste, se estabelecerem canais eficazes de comunicação e col aboração entre as forças internacionais presentes no território, com vista à res tauração da ordem pública e rápida reposição da normalidade institucional.
Ainda no campo da segurança, solicita ao Conselho da União Europeia e à Comissão Europeia que inste as autoridades timorenses a "proibir, dissolver e d esarmar" todos os grupos paramilitares, gangs e civis armados, e a dar conta das preocupação da UE relativamente à violência policial em todos os encontros ofic iais ao mais alto nível que mantenha com o governo de Timor-Leste.
O texto que será adoptado pela assembleia pede à UE e à comunidade inte rnacional que "mantenham e aumentem o apoio necessário para consolidar a democra cia e a cultura democrática em Timor-Leste", concentrando-se designadamente no f omento da cultura multipartidária, na edificação das instituições e no reforço d as redes de educação e de saúde.
Aponta também a urgência de estender a cobertura por parte dos órgãos d e comunicação social a todo o território.
A resolução pede à comunidade internacional que aumente "substancialmen te" o apoio com vista à monitorização efectiva da questão dos direitos humanos e m Timor-Leste e que providencie assistência para o desenvolvimento de grupos loc ais de direitos humanos, bem como serviços locais para vítimas de abusos.
Dirigindo-se aos timorenses, o Parlamento Europeu insta o governo e o p residente a tomarem "todos os passos necessários" para pôr fim à violência e res taurar um ambiente estável em total respeito pela Constituição.
Pede também às partes em conflito para se envolverem num diálogo que in clua todos para discutir as diferenças políticas.
A proposta de resolução tem como co-signatários a deputada socialista A na Gomes, pelo Grupo Socialista, e o líder democrata-cristão José Ribeiro e Cast ro, pelo Partido Popular Europeu, e será votada quinta-feira à tarde, no hemicic lo de Estrasburgo.
Terça-feira, por ocasião de uma reunião do Conselho de Segurança das Na ções Unidas, o secretário-geral Kofi Annan admitiu que a ONU reduziu a sua prese nça em Timor-Leste demasiado rapidamente, e que "tendo em conta o que aconteceu" é preciso reavaliar a presença no terreno.
Todavia, indicou que a ONU não tenciona enviar forças de paz para Timor -leste nos próximos seis meses, e disse esperar que os países que têm actualment e forças no território, como Portugal, continuem a "ajudar a manter a lei e a or dem até que o Conselho de Segurança tome novas decisões".
O Conselho de Segurança reúne-se, novamente, na próxima semana, para pr olongar o actual mandato da missão da ONU em Timor-Leste (UNOTIL), que termina d ia 20, uma decisão desde já saudada na resolução do Parlamento Europeu.
Além de Portugal, que enviou uma força da GNR para Timor-Leste, também a Austrália, Nova Zelândia e Malásia responderam a um pedido das autoridades tim orenses para envio de forças militares e policiais para pôr fim ao clima de viol ência que se vive no país, sobretudo em Díli, desde o final de Abril.
A onda de violência em Timor-Leste já provocou mais de duas dezenas de mortos e cerca de 130 mil deslocados.
ACC.
Annan says UN should send peacekeepers back to East Timor
UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan Tuesday appealed for sustained international engagement in East Timor, saying it is "obvious" that UN peacekeepers need to go back to the tiny state stricken by riots recently.
"We have learned -- at a painful price for Timor-Leste -- that the building of institutions on the basis of fundamental principles of democracy and rule of law is not a simple process that can be completed within a few short years," Annan told the 15- member body.
East Timor, officially known as Timor-Leste, was shepherded to independence by the UN four years ago, which is now in turmoil after the dismissal in April of nearly a third of the armed forces, following by the eruption of killings, rioting and gang violence.
"The sad events of recent weeks reflect shortcomings not only on the part of the Timorese leadership, but also on the part of the international community, in adequately sustaining Timor-Leste's nation-building process," Annan observed.
He appealed to the Security Council to stand united in supporting East Timor's return to normality, and to help its citizens resume their work to build a peaceful and prosperous nation.
"Clearly, tremendous work lies ahead, both for the government of Timor-Leste and for the international community," he noted.
In his briefing, Annan's special envoy to East Timor, Ian Martin, outlined recommendations for renewed international involvement he culled from his recent mission to the nation.
Priorities include restoration of the security sector, including the long-term development of the national police, which he said "was not completed in previous international efforts and has now encountered serious set-back and need for review."
In addition, he said there was strong consensus that the UN should play a major role in the organization of elections for 2007 and in fostering national reconciliation, as well as establishing an independent Special Inquiry Committee to conduct an investigation to the deadly incidents of the past two months.
Asked by reporters outside the council meeting for his priorities among those recommendations, Annan said that a bolstered international presence was crucial.
"It is obvious that the UN will have to go back to Timor-Leste in a much larger form than we are at the moment, and we will need to send an assessment mission on the ground to determine exactly what needs to be done."
He added that he has asked Louise Arbour, the UN high commissioner for human rights, to take the lead in establishing the investigation committee.
Annan spoke after Timorese Ambassador Jose Luis Guterres told the council that the United Nations must establish a new mission with a police force to replace the peacekeepers sent by Australia, New Zealand, Portugal and Malaysia now in place.
He spoke on behalf of Foreign Minister Jose Ramos-Horta, who could not attend because of the unrest, which has killed more than 30 people in the last month.
The UN presence has decreased gradually since the original UN Transitional Administration was set up in 1999 after the country voted for independence from Indonesia.
Once independence was attained in 2002, that mission was replaced with a downsized operation, the UN Mission of Support in East Timor, which in turn was succeeded by the current small UN office in Timor-Leste.
Source: Xinhua
Annan says UN should send peacekeepers back to East Timor
UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan Tuesday appealed for sustained international engagement in East Timor, saying it is "obvious" that UN peacekeepers need to go back to the tiny state stricken by riots recently.
"We have learned -- at a painful price for Timor-Leste -- that the building of institutions on the basis of fundamental principles of democracy and rule of law is not a simple process that can be completed within a few short years," Annan told the 15- member body.
East Timor, officially known as Timor-Leste, was shepherded to independence by the UN four years ago, which is now in turmoil after the dismissal in April of nearly a third of the armed forces, following by the eruption of killings, rioting and gang violence.
"The sad events of recent weeks reflect shortcomings not only on the part of the Timorese leadership, but also on the part of the international community, in adequately sustaining Timor-Leste's nation-building process," Annan observed.
He appealed to the Security Council to stand united in supporting East Timor's return to normality, and to help its citizens resume their work to build a peaceful and prosperous nation.
"Clearly, tremendous work lies ahead, both for the government of Timor-Leste and for the international community," he noted.
In his briefing, Annan's special envoy to East Timor, Ian Martin, outlined recommendations for renewed international involvement he culled from his recent mission to the nation.
Priorities include restoration of the security sector, including the long-term development of the national police, which he said "was not completed in previous international efforts and has now encountered serious set-back and need for review."
In addition, he said there was strong consensus that the UN should play a major role in the organization of elections for 2007 and in fostering national reconciliation, as well as establishing an independent Special Inquiry Committee to conduct an investigation to the deadly incidents of the past two months.
Asked by reporters outside the council meeting for his priorities among those recommendations, Annan said that a bolstered international presence was crucial.
"It is obvious that the UN will have to go back to Timor-Leste in a much larger form than we are at the moment, and we will need to send an assessment mission on the ground to determine exactly what needs to be done."
He added that he has asked Louise Arbour, the UN high commissioner for human rights, to take the lead in establishing the investigation committee.
Annan spoke after Timorese Ambassador Jose Luis Guterres told the council that the United Nations must establish a new mission with a police force to replace the peacekeepers sent by Australia, New Zealand, Portugal and Malaysia now in place.
He spoke on behalf of Foreign Minister Jose Ramos-Horta, who could not attend because of the unrest, which has killed more than 30 people in the last month.
The UN presence has decreased gradually since the original UN Transitional Administration was set up in 1999 after the country voted for independence from Indonesia.
Once independence was attained in 2002, that mission was replaced with a downsized operation, the UN Mission of Support in East Timor, which in turn was succeeded by the current small UN office in Timor-Leste.
Source: Xinhua
President vows to guard East Timor Constitution
Posted at 5:50pm on 14 Jun 2006
East Timor's President Xanana Gusmao vowed on Wednesday to uphold the Constitution amid speculation he may dissolve Parliament in a bid to end weeks of crisis.
Addressing a special sitting of Parliament, Mr Gusmao has compared the current crisis to the bloodshed of 1999, albeit on a smaller scale.
He says the recent violence has caused unacceptable fear and suffering, and paralysed state institutions. He said he remains the guardian of East Timor's Constitution.
Guardian of the Constitution
"From 20 May, 2002 onwards, I have been the President of the Republic and it is incumbent upon me to be the guardian of the Constitution," Mr Gusmao said.
"To be a guardian of the Constitution of the Republic basically means to safeguard the democratic state based on the rule of law.
"I will continue to fulfil the sacred duty of safeguarding the democratic state, based on the rule of law, until the end of my mandate in May 2007.
"I will do so unwaveringly and the people can be sure of that."
Trouble followed sacking of deserters
East Timor sank into chaos after Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri fired 600 soldiers, or nearly half the Army, in March after they deserted complaining of discrimination because they came from the country's west.
At least 21 people died last month as sporadic battles between rival soldiers and police descended into gang clashes.
The government appealed for foreign help and more than 2,200 troops and police have since arrived from Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand and Portugal.
The ABC reports President Gusmao said East Timor has been in talks with Australian Defence chiefs to extend the foreign troop presence to regional districts.
UN troops needed: Annan
The United Nations Secretary-General says he believes peacekeeping forces will have to return to East Timor, just a year after they were withdrawn.
Kofi Annan told a meeting of the Security Council in New York that he was "deeply concerned" about the situation.
Mr Annan announced the UN will hold an independent inquiry into the violence, including an incident on May 25 in which 10 policemen were killed.
International presence
The UN chief says he expects international troops to remain in East Timor in the medium term - before possibly handing over to the UN.
"It is obvious that the UN will have to go back in a much larger form than we are at the moment," he said.
"We will need to send an assessment mission on the ground to determine exactly what needs to be done."
The deployment of any UN peacekeepers in East Timor would require approval by the UN Security Council.
Call for police
Foreign Minister Jose Ramos Horta has asked the United Nations for up to 900 multi-national police to help curb the violence in East Timor.
Dr Ramos Horta said East Timor needs about 870 multi-national police to maintain law and order for at least a year.
Dr Horta also urged the UN to extend its mandate in East Timor for at least one more month after it expires next week.
Copyright © 2006 Radio New Zealand
President vows to guard East Timor Constitution
Posted at 5:50pm on 14 Jun 2006
East Timor's President Xanana Gusmao vowed on Wednesday to uphold the Constitution amid speculation he may dissolve Parliament in a bid to end weeks of crisis.
Addressing a special sitting of Parliament, Mr Gusmao has compared the current crisis to the bloodshed of 1999, albeit on a smaller scale.
He says the recent violence has caused unacceptable fear and suffering, and paralysed state institutions. He said he remains the guardian of East Timor's Constitution.
Guardian of the Constitution
"From 20 May, 2002 onwards, I have been the President of the Republic and it is incumbent upon me to be the guardian of the Constitution," Mr Gusmao said.
"To be a guardian of the Constitution of the Republic basically means to safeguard the democratic state based on the rule of law.
"I will continue to fulfil the sacred duty of safeguarding the democratic state, based on the rule of law, until the end of my mandate in May 2007.
"I will do so unwaveringly and the people can be sure of that."
Trouble followed sacking of deserters
East Timor sank into chaos after Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri fired 600 soldiers, or nearly half the Army, in March after they deserted complaining of discrimination because they came from the country's west.
At least 21 people died last month as sporadic battles between rival soldiers and police descended into gang clashes.
The government appealed for foreign help and more than 2,200 troops and police have since arrived from Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand and Portugal.
The ABC reports President Gusmao said East Timor has been in talks with Australian Defence chiefs to extend the foreign troop presence to regional districts.
UN troops needed: Annan
The United Nations Secretary-General says he believes peacekeeping forces will have to return to East Timor, just a year after they were withdrawn.
Kofi Annan told a meeting of the Security Council in New York that he was "deeply concerned" about the situation.
Mr Annan announced the UN will hold an independent inquiry into the violence, including an incident on May 25 in which 10 policemen were killed.
International presence
The UN chief says he expects international troops to remain in East Timor in the medium term - before possibly handing over to the UN.
"It is obvious that the UN will have to go back in a much larger form than we are at the moment," he said.
"We will need to send an assessment mission on the ground to determine exactly what needs to be done."
The deployment of any UN peacekeepers in East Timor would require approval by the UN Security Council.
Call for police
Foreign Minister Jose Ramos Horta has asked the United Nations for up to 900 multi-national police to help curb the violence in East Timor.
Dr Ramos Horta said East Timor needs about 870 multi-national police to maintain law and order for at least a year.
Dr Horta also urged the UN to extend its mandate in East Timor for at least one more month after it expires next week.
Copyright © 2006 Radio New Zealand
East Timor: A New Cold War - A não perder
By: Maryann Keady
Wednesday 14 June 2006
‘New Neighbour, New Challenge,’ a paper released by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute in 2002, outlines the importance of Australia for East Timor’s security. It also reflects East Timor’s importance for Australia’s security, and provides a prism through which to view the latest developments:
Australia has a lot at stake in the future of our new neighbour. Altruistically we hope the people of East Timor can enjoy a peaceful and prosperous future. More self-interestedly, their success or failure will directly affect Australia’s own prospects for security. Serious problems in East Timor would undermine Australia’s enduring strategic interests in the stability of our immediate neighbourhood.
At the moment, it is the seaways and maritime gas and oil reserves around East Timor that concern Australia, as well as the visible entrance of a regional player: China.
When Australia’s ally, the United States, made the Asia Pacific its top strategic priority in its 2001 Quadrennial Defence Review, it was clear to all defence analysts that the ‘peer competitor’ was China.
The recently released Pentagon annual report on China’s military power said China’s military build-up ‘has already altered military balances in the Asia-Pacific and could pose a threat to regional armed forces.’ The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Liu Jianchao, accused the US of exaggerating China’s military strength saying it is based on a ‘Cold War mentality.’
And a ‘New Cold War’ is exactly what has emerged.
East Timor is just one of the countries in the region caught in the crossfire between two powerful strategic competitors: China and the US. Unfortunately for East Timor, it happens to neighbour some of the Pacific’s most crucial waterways - most notably the Ombei Wetar Straits, a deep-water trough between the Indian and Pacific Oceans important for submarine passage, that would be a vital sea ‘choke point’ in any future conflict.
Politicians and commentators from across the spectrum have been candid about what they see as the dilemmas for East Timor in trying to balance the two giants. From the quick change of allegiance from China to Taiwan in Kiribati, to the targeting of ethnic Chinese during April’s riots in Honiara, the ‘China factor’ is causing chaos across the region. Locals fear that the regional hegemons - China, US and Australia - play a bigger part in this instability than any organic civil unrest.
The Australian press has chosen to ignore the bigger, strategic tussle until very recently, allowing the Australian Government to ‘engage’ in the Pacific with very little criticism or independent analysis.
Australia will continue to assert itself throughout the Pacific — and from a defence rationale, this seems perfectly acceptable. What may be challenged is the wisdom of not intervening prior to conflict, but only once so-called ‘failed states’ have descended into chaos. Both the RAMSI mission in the Solomons and Operation Astute in East Timor reflect this.
Many of these Pacific communities are tiny, and it is easy to find handfuls of witnesses (or in my case, be a witness) to unrest that may have been easily contained and dealt with. It is impossible in East Timor’s case to understand how a gang of unruly unemployed youths protesting about their dismissal from the armed forces could emerge into two rebel gangs (with UN and Australian advisors present throughout the melee) calling for the Prime Minister’s removal.
Much has been said in the Australian press about ethnic divisions between east and west in East Timor having fueled the violence — a convenient division if you wish to use civil chaos as a pretext for sending military forces and keep a country under your sphere of influence. But little is heard about how this is the third time international forces have failed to stop the people of East Timor being terrorised by a third party. First, there was the Indonesian rampage of 1999. Second, the unrest of 4 December 2002 (leading to the first calls by the Australian press for Alkatiri to step down, just prior to oil and gas negotiations). And now, civil chaos in 2006.
Just after the 2002 unrest, I interviewed local witnesses as well as the head of the UN and Australian forces about complaints that they did nothing to stop the chaos. After much investigation, I was told that a UN representative ‘unofficially’ went to the office to ask Prime Minister Alkatiri to resign, an interesting response to civil disturbance - and one that makes a mockery of the UN pretence of apolitical humanitarian efforts.
This time, the UN has said that it will send Ian Martin (who was the UN Special Representative in 1999 when international staff were evacuated, leaving East Timorese at the hands of the Indonesian military). The question that has not been answered is how the situation could have escalated this far? Will the East Timorese again hear hollow words from bureaucrats about ‘limitations’ in ‘ensuring their safety’?
The bigger question is of course whether Australia chose to allow East Timor to descend into anarchy ‘Solomons’ style, thus allowing their troops to be ‘forward deployed’ in this strategic location.
Richard Woolcott, who was Australian Ambassador to Jakarta at the time of the 1975 invasion of East Timor, recently said on ABC Radio that a senior member of the Bush Administration told him in 2000, that ‘Timor will be your Haiti.’
Thanks to Sean Leahy.
Much has been written about Haiti and the American media’s demonisation of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide in 2004. Australia has embarked on a similar campaign with Alkatiri. The American press called Aristide and his Party unreconstructed Leftists whose model was the Chinese Cultural Revolution. Alkatiri is charged with being a ‘Marxist Mozambique’ - and his Fretilin Party ‘communist’ - despite his model being more Malaysia’s Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad than anyone else.
In Haiti, the Opposition had the support of the US State Government-backed International Republican Institute (IRI). The US’s role in East Timor is no less interesting. The IRI, the National Endowment of Democracy and the National Democratic Institute have all created quasi ‘democracy’ programs that fund local opposition in East Timor — the same opposition that enjoys good relations with Australia.
The Catholic Church, an influential body in East Timor, has also been behind the anti-Alkatiri campaign. Their protests in 2005 against Alkatiri’s moves to make religious instruction non-obligatory were a dangerous indication of just how powerful these forces have become.
Richard Woolcott’s Haiti comment came on top of eyewitness reports of Australian troops failing to ensure locals’ security and has only fuelled accusations that Australia is an important actor in the chaos. Local sources say two planes arrived with Australian personnel in non-civilian clothes prior to the call for Australia’s help. Australian advisors were seen meeting with rebels and their local advisors. These charges require further investigation if the suspicion of Australian involvement is to dissipate.
While many East Timorese understand Australia’s defence preoccupations in the Asia-Pacific, they also worry that the ‘Defence defence’ will allow Australia to dominate these small countries — in East Timor’s case, one with substantial oil and gas reserves that have been the focus of difficult and protracted bilateral negotiations.
On 7 May, Marí Alkatiri called the recent unrest a ‘coup’ — saying that ‘foreigners were coming to control and divide East Timor again’ with ‘foreign advisors meeting with politicians and going to the hills’ to meet rebels. He accused the Australian media of spreading rumours that he was no longer Prime Minister. In an interview with me last week, he again reiterated that there was no doubt that forces ‘inside and outside’ East Timor were behind the unrest, and that no one was going to force him to resign through violent means. He claimed 200,000 people would support him in the streets.
Since 2002, Alkatiri’s rhetoric has been ‘let them try’ and ‘not without Fretilin’s consent.’ In interviews, his Cabinet ministers have openly declared that other countries ‘want to raise another flag over this nation.’ The implication has always been directed at Australia.
But when US officials started meeting with East Timorese judiciary in 2003, it was clear that bigger international efforts were underway. The Prime Minister said at the time that the judiciary were interfering ‘politically’ in the country. Privately, Alkatiri’s officials stated last month: ‘they tried the Church protests, now they are trying to oust him via Fretilin. It won’t work. They don’t understand this country.’
The Australian media have made no secret of what they believe should happen in East Timor — editorial and commentary in both broadcast and print media have called for Alkatiri’s resignation. Yet there has been hardly a comment from the press or East Timor ‘human rights’ supporters on the ramifications of ousting Alkatiri unconstitutionally.
Inside East Timor, people are aware of the political games being played, and President Xanana Gusmão is seen as ‘Australia’s man.’ If Alkatiri is ousted through violent means, Gusmão will be left with the undesirable legacy of unconstitutionally expelling East Timor’s first leader, with the tacit support of Australia.
That would be a disaster for East Timor, because Haiti-like political warfare could ensue. East Timor will then truly become part of the ‘arc of instability,’ a convenient label for international political leaders that hides the devastation of local suffering.
If East Timor’s current plight is part of New Cold War politics, then the people of the Asia-Pacific have much to be afraid of — and Canberra much to answer for.
http://www.newmatilda.com/home/articledetailmagazine.asp?ArticleID=1618&HomepageID=145
Dos leitores
Os primeiros comentaristas anonimos mais uma vez demonstraram a sua ignorancia sobre a realidade do seu proprio pais. Tambem estive a trabalhar durante aquela epoca. Fez-se um enorme esforco para para que muitos dos "colaboracionistas" nao dominassem a PNTL. Mesmo assim, aqueles que permaneceram mostraram a sua verdadeira face nesta crise...
Parabéns
Compromisso político PR/Governo desbloqueia aprovação Código Penal
Díli, 14 Jun (Lusa) - O Presidente da República e o governo timorenses alcançaram um compromisso político para desbloquear a aprovação do novo Código P enal, ultrapassando a polémica sobre a forma de penalização prevista para o crim e de difamação, anunciou hoje Xanana Gusmão.
O anúncio presidencial foi feito na mensagem que Xanana Gusmão dirigiu hoje de manhã (hora local), em Díli, aos deputados do Parlamento Nacional.
O governo tinha já aprovado o Código Penal, na sequência da autorização legislativa concedida pelo Parlamento em Julho de 2005, mas o diploma aguardava , desde Dezembro, por uma decisão de Xanana Gusmão que, sensibilizado pelas crít icas de vários sectores quanto à pena de prisão prevista para o crime de difamaç ão, mantinha a incógnita sobre a promulgação ou veto.
Os novos desenvolvimentos sobre o futuro do diploma foram primeiro reve lados terça-feira, pelo gabinete do primeiro-ministro, que anunciou que o govern o iria solicitar ao Parlamento a prorrogação da autorização legislativa para que se possa alterar a proposta e consequente aprovação do Código Penal.
A segunda referência quanto ao desbloqueio do impasse partiu hoje do Pr esidente da República, que na mensagem que dirigiu aos deputados referiu ter alc ançado um "compromisso político" com o primeiro-ministro, Mari Alkatiri.
O "braço de ferro" nesta matéria deverá terminar com o crime de difamaç ão a ser criminalizado unicamente com a pena de multa e não a pena de prisão, de fendida pelo governo.
O restante articulado da proposta não sofrerá alterações, pelo que a pe na máxima prevista em Timor-Leste passa a ser de 30 anos de cadeia.
Em termos de hierarquia, o futuro Código Penal de Timor-Leste estabelec e uma escala de valores protegidos, que estão ordenados da seguinte maneira: cri mes contra a paz, humanidade e liberdade, crimes contra as pessoas, crimes contr a a vida em democracia, crimes contra o património, crimes contra a realização d a justiça, crimes praticados no exercício de funções públicas: crimes de falsifi cação e crimes contra a economia.
EL.
Orçamento revisto é 122 % superior ao do actual ano fiscal
Díli, 14 Jun (Lusa) - O Conselho de Ministros de Timor-Leste aprovou hoje um novo Orçamento de Estado (OE), de 315 milhões de dólares (250 milhões de euros), mais 122 por cento que o orçamento do ano fiscal em curso, anunciou fonte governamental.
O OE, que será enviado ainda esta semana ao Parlamento para agendamento de debate e votação, deverá entrar em vigor a partir de 01 de Julho.
A situação prevalecente em Timor-Leste, com dezenas de milhar de deslocados distribuídos por campos de acolhimento devido à violência que se regista no país desde finais de Abril, obrigou o Governo a rever o OE, cuja primeira versão, no valor de 240 milhões de dólares (190 milhões de euros), tinha sido aprovada no passado dia 12 de Maio.
Segundo um comunicado enviado à agência Lusa, o Governo "resolveu ajustar a sua proposta de orçamento, nas rubricas de salários e vencimentos para o valor de 38 milhões de dólares [30 milhões de euros], de bens e serviços para 123 milhões de dólares [98 milhões de euros], capital e desenvolvimento para 120 milhões de dólares [95 milhões de euros], capital menor para 19 milhões [15 milhões de euros] e transferências para 15 milhões de dólares [12 milhões de euros]".
A importância do OE para que o Estado enfrente a crise social e política vigente foi hoje destacada pelo Presidente Xanana Gusmão, que na mensagem que dirigiu ao Parlamento Nacional, pediu aos deputados "especial atenção" no debate do diploma.
"O tempo foge e a necessidade de responder aos problemas que o povo atravessa tem deveras um carácter de urgência", frisou.
Xanana Gusmão destacou algumas das rubricas da proposta de OE, designadamente a existência de vários fundos de solidariedade, desenvolvimento comunitário, crédito rural, habitação e actividades sociais.
A verba prevista para a segurança alimentar é de oito milhões de dólares (6,3 milhões de euros), enquanto para a reconstrução de casas, incendiadas nas últimas semanas, o governo prevê gastar dez milhões de dólares (7,9 milhões de euros).
O OE revisto prevê ainda aumentos salariais entre 15 e 25 por cento para os cerca de 15 mil funcionários públicos, na que será a primeira actualização de vencimentos em Timor-Leste desde 2001.
Os servidores do Estado que trabalham nas zonas mais isoladas do país beneficiarão ainda de uma segunda actualização salarial, no valor correspondente a 50 por cento.
Segundo o Governo, outras medidas económicas com reflexos imediatos na população e nos seus rendimentos são a revisão do sistema fiscal e de investimentos e a redução das tarifas de electricidade.
No pedido de "especial atenção" que dirigiu aos deputados quando debaterem o orçamento, Xanana Gusmão convidou todos a continuarem a "exigir transparência ao Governo no manejo" dos fundos disponíveis, para que "saibamos que na verdade o dinheiro ou os benefícios foram parar às mãos da população", acrescentou.
EL.
Dos leitores
Sou internacional que trabalhei com as nacoes unidas. Eu sei o que aconteceu, como o Sr Leiria escreve. O recrutamento foi em maior parte a nossa responabilidade sem os memberos do governo ter qualquer intervencao ou participacao. Aceitar responsabilidade do seu cargo e uma coisa...falar a verdade e outra. 80% ou mais dos funcionarios (inclusivo PNTL e F-FDTL) foi um processo durante o primeiro governo transitorio chefeado por Sergio Vieira De Melo nao mari Alkatiri. Quando Mari Alaktiri entrou como Ministro Chefe, ja estava quase tudo em sitio. E foi applicando a politica de reconciliacao, que uns como o Paulo Martins foram aonde foram com apoio de poucos e disgosto de muitos.
Pelo menos com os F-FDTL os veteranos que foram encorajados a entrar foram os que futuramente manteram aquela instituicao com coirencia e etica.
"Mensagem do Presidente foi clara e é boa" - PM Mari Alkatiri
Díli, 14 Jun (Lusa) - O primeiro-ministro de Timor-Leste, Mari Alkatiri, gostou da mensagem que o Presidente Xanana Gusmão dirigiu hoje ao Parlamento Nacional, classificando-a como "clara e boa", em declarações à agência Lusa.
"Foi uma mensagem clara e boa. Acho que é nesse sentido que vamos continuar a trabalhar", salientou Mari Alkatiri, que disse ainda ter ficado "contente" com o facto de Xanana Gusmão ter anunciando o início, dentro em breve, do desdobramento para fora de Díli das forças militares internacionais presentemente estacionadas em Timor-Leste.
O primeiro-ministro, acompanhado dos membros do seu governo, interrompeu o Conselho de Ministros para revisão e aprovação do Orçamento de Estado (OE) que será enviado ainda esta semana para debate e votação no Parlamento Nacional.
A importância deste diploma foi referida pelo presidente da república na sua mensagem, que pediu "especial atenção" aos deputados no debate que se seguirá.
"O tempo foge e a necessidade de responder aos problemas que o povo atravessa tem um carácter de urgência", frisou Xanana Gusmão.
O OE, que tem o valor global de 315 milhões de dólares, foi um dos pontos do habitual encontro semanal do chefe de Estado e do primeiro-ministro.
Fonte governamental disse à Agência Lusa que o OE inclui a execução de projectos ligados à reconstrução de infra-estruturas e várias iniciativas, em que a mais importante é o aumento salarial entre 15 e 25 por cento para os funcionários públicos, a que acresce um aumento de 50 por cento para os trabalhadores do Estado colocados nas zonas mais isoladas.
EL.
Discurso no Parlamento Nacional - Presidente Xanana
Xanana Gusmão anunciou desdobramento...
Xanana Gusmão, que falou português, destacou na sua mensagem, a primeira que faz em público depois de a 30 de Maio ter chamado a si o controlo das áreas de defesa e segurança do país, que a situação actual traduz uma repetição do passado recente.
"Estamos perante uma repetição, embora em menor escala, (dos acontecimentos) de Setembro de 1999, que nos forçou a pedir a intervenção internacional das forças de defesa e segurança de países amigos", recordou.
"E isto devia arrepiar todos quantos foram eleitos por este povo para garantir estabilidade, segurança e melhores condições de vida", salientou Xanana Gusmão.
Considerando que deveria ter sido Timor-Leste a "assumir a responsabilidade", Xanana Gusmão reconheceu que o facto da situação ter fugido à "capacidade de controlo" das autoridades timorenses levou a que fosse pedido a Portugal, Austrália, Malásia e Nova Zelândia o envio de forças militares e policiais.
Depois de saudar os quatro países pela prontidão com que corresponderam ao pedido das autoridades timorenses, o chefe de Estado disse ser evidente que aqueles efectivos "vêm fazendo um admirável trabalho na reposição gradual da normalidade".
"Mas teremos que considerar esta intervenção para um período mais longo do que supúnhamos", declarou o presidente timorense, apontando como razões a existência de armas nas mãos de civis.
Na sua intervenção, Xanana Gusmão convidou também todos os actores políticos timorenses a fazer um "rigoroso exame de consciência".
"Não temos outra alternativa senão medir os actos políticos que viemos praticando, consciente ou inconscientemente, e que contribuíram para que o povo viesse a sofrer mais uma vez com o resultado da nossa falta de capacidade política para resolver os problemas e que não pudemos ou não quisemos decifrar com o nosso conhecimento sobre a realidade de Timor-Leste", sublinhou.
"Não acuso ninguém. Chamo a atenção ao Estado, chamo a atenção a todos os órgãos de soberania para um rigoroso exame de consciência, porque temos que prestar contas ao nosso povo", acrescentou.
Referindo-se à situação provocada pela violência que se regista desde finais de Abril, que já provocou mais de 20 mortos, mais de uma centena de feridos e dezenas de milhar de deslocados internos, Xanana Gusmão disse ser evidente que "o Estado ficou paralisado por toda a situação que ocorreu em Díli e, pior do que isso, a população está a sofrer as consequências da violência e destruição que se geraram".
"Mas o tempo agora é de reconstrução e não de apontar responsabilidades", vincou.
"O que aconteceu ontem, já aconteceu, hoje não vamos falar de ontem, porque a primeiríssima prioridade é terminar com a violência e destruição de bens e propriedades e assegurar uma adequada assistência humanitária à população", explicou.
"Sobre o que aconteceu ontem, teremos muito tempo para falar depois. Para cumprirmos bem o plano de acção no sentido de reactivar o funcionamento normal das actividades do Estado e das entidades privadas, poupemo-nos ainda de apontar os dedos uns aos outros", acrescentou Xanana Gusmão.
Dos leitores
...It seems our boys (Australian Defence Force) are having problems convincing Alfredo to hand over his weapons and that of his gang.
I hear yesterday they went to Maubisse as planned to carry out the handover and he refused.
What now people? This is the self proclaimed "mate" of us Australians.
Many of us Australians are wondering....what are you waiting for? Isnt that your job description...to disarm him as you have done to the whole of the F-FDTL who now are not allowed out of barracks armed?
Now we know who the real fiends and fiends are of the Australian Task Force maybe?
Nota da redacção
A declaração da Fretilin foi entregue apenas em tetum. Houve alguém que a traduziu para inglês e nós colocámos aqui também a versão em inglês. Esclarecidos?
