31 January 2010

President Horta Asks PM to Reshuffle the AMP Government

FRETILIN.Media Flash Dili, 27.01.2009 : 1643 hours - A translation of an interview by the Dili daily newspaper, Jornal Diario Nacional dated 26 January 2009 with President Ramos-Horta follows, in which he repeats his concerns about the level of corruption with the current de facto government and its impact on Timor-Leste internationally.

The calls for a reshuffle of the government are astonishing in the eyes of many, given his recent contradictory expressions of support for the de facto government despite widespread and persistent evidence of their corruption and ill-governance.

A reshuffle has been mooted by Mr. Gusmao for more than a year now, and speculation has it that he has been unable to do so because of the precarious balance of the so called alliance, due to internal inter-party bickering and because a number of parties comprising the alliance that have publicly known bitter internal disputes and rivalries that would prevent them on ever agreeing on replacements or changes. Some have even splintered into new parties in the last two and a half years.

The fact is that the de facto government is rife with corruption and has governed ineffectively and wastefully, and although a reshuffle is unlikely to change this unfortunate direction the country is heading in, equally, this uncertainty resulting from the President's widely reported remarks must end soon for the good of our nation.

Jose Teixeira MP



Jornal Diario Nacional, 26 January 2010

Title: President of the Republic Asks PM to Reshuffle the AMP Government

The President of the Republic (PR), Jose Manuel Ramos Horta, asked the Prime Minister (PM), Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao to reshuffle the government of the Majority Parliamentary Alliance (AMP) block, because the time has come.

PR Horta said, he does not want a nation whose name is dirty in the international world due to corruption, and so for this year he wants to see cleaning of the dirt that is there.

“I, as President of the Republic of this nation, I do not want to be ashamed in the international community that I am President of a state, a nation where corruption is rampant, as that dirties all of our names, especially the President of the Republic and the Prime Minister,” stated PR Horta to journalists, Monday (25/01), at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace, Bairo-Pite, Dili, right after meeting with national and international business people.

The Head of State said, what he had told the Prime Minister, he does not want to say in public especially to the media but it is a normal concern that he has. More than two years have passed and the Prime Minister can already think to reshuffle the AMP government.

Look to see if a minister is really serving the nation or not, serving the government, truly grasping governance within his or her ministry or not, or is it better to change one minister for another,” suggested PR Horta.

However, PR Horta emphasized to the journalists that the power is in the Prime Minister’s hands.

“I give him 100%, what he does I agree with and I support him, if there is something I don’t agree with I tell him but personally I can’t speak out because the power is in his hands to put in or remove people from the government,” said PR Horta.

PR Horta stated, he has heard the opinions from the population and the international community and he himself has given his opinion to the Prime Minister, but it depends on the Prime Minister to choose to follow or not. “It does not mean that what I have to say is right. I can have my idea, also the Prime Minister is older than me and has more experience and is very intelligent. For this reason what I say, doesn’t mean the Prime Minister has to follow,” stressed PR Horta.

PR Horta said, this year he has already met with the PM and all members of government to improve even more governance, that budget execution must be better, and they must clean Timor’s name and the government’s name of corruption.

“Concretely involved (in corruption), that I can’t say because I am not the Prosecutor General, I am not the Provedor for Justice and Human Rights. I can speculate because I do not have proof. If I did have strong proof in hand and I saw the Prime Minister didn’t do anything, then I could speak, but at this time I do not have proof, I hear only people talking, talk that could be right, but we don’t know,” stated the Head of State. (Ends)

Image added by ETLJB: Artwork by Arte Moris artist.

Timor President silent after witnessing police bashing during international fishing competition

FRETILIN.Media MEDIA RELEASE Dili, 30 January 2010 Timor President silent after witnessing police bashing during international fishing competition - FRETILIN MP, member of the parliamentary defence, security and foreign affairs committee and former government minister Jose Teixeira today questioned why President Jose Ramos-Horta said and did nothing after witnessing an unprovoked brutal police assault on a contestant in a fishing competition promoted by the president.

Mr Teixeira said President Ramos-Horta saw police assault Mr Lhew Comacoshe, a 27 year old university student taking part in Timor Leste's inaugural International Fishing Competition on 27 November 2009, but remained silent until after FRETILIN MPs raised the incident in parliament this week and the media began asking questions.

Mr Comacoshe, a participant in the fishing competition, which attracted entrants from Australia and Asia, was punched, kicked and bashed with a rifle butt on a beach on Atauro Island, 25 kms off the coast of the capital Dili, in full view of hundreds of people.

Film of the assault which happened soon after President Ramos-Horta officially opened the competition has been posted on YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6R7uMaO0e_4

Mr Teixeira said Mr Comacoshe was apparently beaten because he held up a placard on which was written, “Fishing Group From Suco Maunroni, Sub-District of Atauro, District of Dili”, identifying from where his group of competitors were and which he intended to affix to their boat, but the police took objection to it without any explanation, and forcibly removed from his possession, afterwards assaulting him.

Mr Teixeira said police were now persecuting Mr Comacoshe and his family for daring to report the incident to the Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice, the Attorney General and parliament.

"The assault on Mr Comacoshe partly reflects the gung-ho and very militaristic attitude introduced by the new police commander Longuinhos Monteiro, who appears bent on creating a 'shadow army'," Mr Teixeira said.

President Ramos-Horta reportedly told the Dili daily, Jornal Diario Nacional on January 29: "This poor Timorese fellow, was merely holding up a placard, I saw the police beat him but because it was far away I did not understand what was happening. Afterwards I heard that he was holding up a placard, I thought if it was a placard then let him do it, there is no need to beat him just because he was only holding up a placard."

Mr Teixeira said the president should not have remained silent about the incident, especially since Mr Comacoshe, personally delivered a written complaint regarding the incident to the President's office on 17 December last year, and then subsequently, on 23 December last his brother delivered a copy of the video to the President’s Office on his behalf.

"In an apparent act of revenge for having the temerity to lodge a complaint, police on 13 January evicted Comacoshe's law-abiding family from a state owned house they had lived in for six years. There was no formal notification from the government - the village chief and police turned up and threw their belongings out the door, after having threatened him with loaded weapons.

"If president Ramos-Horta had spoken up earlier it might have avoided reprisals against Comacoshe and his family, but the President obviously did not want to spoil the media glow generated by the international fishing competition organized by his office. Many people, the victim included have asked me, ‘Is this what it means to be a President for the for the poor and the weak, as he claims widely?’ I have to ask the same question."

Mr Teixeira said Mr Comacoshe's family had now sought refuge in Dili and have yet to receive any assistance from the government.

"Complaints of police brutality are happening with an unprecedented frequency and on an unprecedented scale. We have citizens making complaints almost every day now. In the past two weeks we received complaints about police joining in with martial arts groups and using violence against their rivals.

"Late last year in Uatolari, Viqueque district, police allegedly assaulted and tortured a number of young men. On 28 December 2009 police shot and killed an unarmed young musician at a party in Dili.

"There is something very wrong with the way police are being trained and commanded. Local media on January 27 reported the new police commander Longuinhos Monteiro as saying in regard to alleged criminal activity recently carried out in border districts by masked groups known as ninjas, 'Any Ninjas who want to take us on, your final stop will be Santacruz' cemetery.'

"Dressed in military style fatigues, wearing black gloves, carrying an automatic rifle and fully equipped with field battle vest Monteiro is personally leading the operation to search and arrest these alleged ninjas. Last year he established a special heavily armed police unit named the 'Public Order Battalion' and late last year attempted to enter into a contract to acquire hundreds of additional automatic rifles.

"The government pays lip service to 'community policing' but it is all about the use of force, force, force, relying on weapons, weapons, weapons. We already have an army, we do not need a shadow army. We have many professional and dedicated policemen and women who feel the same way we do and have asked us to speak up for them to change the direction of policing in this country. They want to serve their communities with pride and professionalism, and deserve our support," Mr Teixeira said.

He said FRETILIN was preparing to table the terms of reference for a Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry into police action over the last two years to establish whether there have been breaches of the law and what can be done in terms of improving police training and legal controls to make policing more community friendly and respecting of human rights.

For further information contact Jose Teixeira on +670 728 7080

29 January 2010

Glas Dowr lined up for duty in Kitan in the East Timor-Australia Joint Petroleum Development Area

Published: Jan 27, 2010 Offshore staff HOOFDORP, The Netherlands -- ENI has issued a Letter of Award to Bluewater Energy Services for an FPSO for the Kitan field in the East Timor/Australian Joint Petroleum Development Area.

Confirmation of the award is subject to ENI gaining approval from its co-venturers in the Kitan project, Inpex and Talisman, and the East Timor government.

If confirmed, Bluewater will supply the FPSO Glas Dowr, which formerly operated on the Durward/Dauntless fields in the UK North Sea, for a minimum term of five years after the start of production, extendable to 10 years. The award as its stands covers chartering, operation and maintenance of the upgraded vessel, along with mooring systems, and provision of logistics and ancillary services.

The Kitan field is in JPDA permit 06-105, around 170 km (105 mi) south of the Timor-Leste coast and 500 km (311 mi) north of the Australian mainland. Water depth is around 344 m (1,128 ft).

In the Norwegian North Sea, Bluewater has opted to sell its 55% interest in the Jotun A FPSO to Jotun field operator ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Norway and Standard Marine Nordsje. Stabdard already owns a 45% interest in the vessel.

01/27/2010

http://www.offshore-mag.com/index/article-display/6348648296/articles/offshore/field-development/australia-new-zealand/2010/01/glas-dowr_lined_up.html

Image added by ETLJB: Map showing the Australia-East Timor JDPA

Timor Government moves into 2010 with strong measures for transparency and accountability

The Secretary of State for the Council of Ministers and Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste Agio Pereira January 27, 2010 Dili, Timor-Leste - Government moves into 2010 with strong measures for transparency and accountability.

With the establishment of the independent Anti-Corruption Commission, further compliance with the EITI in the petroleum sector, progressive adoption of world class Public Finance technologies and the professionalisation of the Civil Service through the Civil Service Commission, the Xanana Gusmao government moves into 2010 maintaining its strong commitment to transparent and accountable government.

Following a consultative process in 2008 to identify the most effective model to fight corruption and promote transparency, laws were passed last year to allow the establishment of Timor-Leste’s first independent Anti-Corruption Commission. The Commission is an independent body that reports to the National Parliament with a mandate to conduct investigations into acts of corruption, carry out education campaigns and provide advice to all public departments and agencies on how to prevent corruption. The process to find a suitable Commissioner has begun with a candidate proposed in December 2009.

On another front Timor-Leste has recently been reported as leading the way in the Asia Pacific Region with good governance in the Petroleum sector through efforts to become compliant with the international mechanism known as the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), which has defined the global standard for transparency in the oil, gas and mining sectors.

Since the launch of Timor-Leste’s EITI report; Timor-Leste been praised by the World Bank and other independent organizations for efforts in ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of the petroleum sector; specifically in the reconciliation and publication of government receipts and industry payments from the oil, gas, and mining sector.

The Xanana Gusmao Government also announced plans to make the public financial management of Timor-Leste one of the most transparent in the world. Discussions are in process to implement systems to enable public scrutiny of government finances. Spokesperson for the Council of Ministers, Agio Pereira said “The next generation of public financial management technology will allow the public to track the budget live, to see where every dollar is being spent, and to gain renewed confidence in the process.”

Secretary of State Pereira affirmed “At every level in the Government and throughout the Civil Service we continue in 2010 building on our achievements in transparency and good governance. The Xanana Gusmao government continues this year ever mindful of its mission to serve the people of Timor-Leste with commitment, determination and integrity.” ENDS

For More Information Please Contact: Agio Pereira +670 723 0011 agiopereira@cdm.gov.tl
or govtlmedia@gmail.com

Image added by ETLJB: Xanana Gusmao (right), Prime Minister of East Timor

UN peacekeepers stood by East Timorese police bash a young man

Watch the video of the PNTL bashing a Timorese man here on ETLJB

Rory Callinan From: The Australian January 29, 2010 12:00AM - UN peacekeepers stood by and watched as the East Timorese police they were supposed to be mentoring allegedly hit, kicked and repeatedly stomped on a young man near an official ceremony.

The incident late last year raises concerns about the supervision and training provided to the local police by the UN Integrated Mission in East Timor, which is supported by a contingent of Australian Federal Police and Australian soldiers.

The beating, which involved Policia Nacional de Timor-Leste officers allegedly grinding their heels into the man's back up to a dozen times, kicking him in the head and hitting him with a rifle butt, came to light after film of the incident was handed to East Timorese authorities this month.

The film, since posted on the internet, initially shows a young man with a sign relating to a local fishing group standing on a beach on Atauro Island where East Timor President Jose Ramos Horta was opening a fishing competition about 25km north of Dili.

Next, the young man is shown being dragged away by uniformed PNTL officers while UN police stand casually in the background.

There is no suggestion that Mr Ramos Horta witnessed the alleged incident.

While the PNTL try to handcuff the man, two other men, believed to be plainclothes officers, are seen to rush in and stand on the man's torso. As he writhes in pain, the officers begin stomping on his back in his kidney region up to a dozen times.

As the man is being dragged to his feet, one of the plainclothes officers is seen to kick him in the head and, as he is being led away, another plainclothes officer runs in carrying a shotgun, which he slams, butt-first, into the man's stomach, sending him staggering.

During the beating, a blue-bereted, uniformed UN police adviser can be seen watching from just outside the circle of officers and at one point appears to say something. Other UN officers are seen just before the beating standing further back along the beach.

UN East Timor spokesman Gyorgy Kakuk said yesterday a joint UN-PNTL investigation had been launched into the incident, along with a separate criminal investigation.

"We are taking this matter very seriously," Mr Kakuk said. "The investigation has to determine what has happened, why did it happen there and, as a result of that investigation, perhaps there will be an investigation established into responsibility of other police officers other than PNTL."

No Australian peacekeepers were involved in the incident.

In 2006, the PNTL and the country's military forces fractured along political and geographic lines, taking the country to the brink of civil war and causing 37 deaths and the displacement of 150,000 people.

Part of the UN mission in East Timor was to rebuild the local police force to take over responsibility for policing the country by the end of this year

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/un-peacekeepers-stood-by-east-timorese-police-bash-a-young-man/story-e6frg6nf-1225824491659

28 January 2010

UNICEF supports launch of Timor-Leste youth parliament

Dili, 18 January 2010 - Secretary of State of Youth and Sports led by Mr. Miguel Manetelu, with support of United Nation Children's Fund (UNICEF) will organize the launch of the Timor-Leste Youth Parliament on 18 January 2010 in Saint John Paul II Comoro at 8:30 am.

H. E. Mr. Jose Ramos Horta, President of Timor – Leste and Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of Timor-Leste are expected to officially launch the Youth Parliament and deliver their messages to around 150 young people between the age of 12 and 17. The opening ceremony will also witnessed by H. E. Mr. Fernando de Araújo Lasama, President of National Parliament.

The Timor-Leste Youth Parliament is the first in the history of Timor-Leste. It aims to provide a forum for Timorese youth to be part of nation building and their voice heard. It promotes civic participation of young people. The Youth Parliament will also serve as a unique school for future leaders.

The launch of the Timor-Leste Youth Parliament will be attended by representatives of National Youth Council (CNJTL) from the 13 districts, civil society organizations and supporters of youth development in Timor-Leste.

"UNICEF is very pleased to be part of the establishment of the Timor-Leste Youth Parliament. UNICEF supports programmes that will help achieve the fastest improvements on the lives of Timorese children and youth", UNICEF Representative Mr. Jun Kukita said. "In 2008, we brought UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Jackie Chan to Timor-Leste to promote peace, unity and discipline among the youth. We hope that the Youth Parliament will further stress the critical role of the youth for peace, stability and development of this young nation."

For additional information, contact:

Mary Ann Q. Maglipon, Chief, Communication Section, UNICEF Timor-Leste
HP: +670-7231103 Email: mmaglipon@unicef.org

Antonio Gomes, Communication Officer, UNICEF Timor-Leste (Tetum Queries)
HP: +670-7232441 Email: angomez@unicef.org

http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwb.nsf/db900SID/MYAI-8247VY?OpenDocument

Australian soldiers left our mother to die, says family of Timorese woman killed after impact with ADF vehicle

From SMH LINDSAY MURDOCH ,DARWIN AND STEVE TICKNER, DILI January 28, 2010 - THE family of an East Timorese woman who died after being hit by an Australian Army vehicle in December believes the army should compensate them.

Soldiers were unaware for 13 days that mother of nine Gracinda da Costa, 65, had died from a head injury hours after being struck while walking along a Dili street early on December 18.

Mrs da Costa's family say no Australian soldiers from the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) in East Timor have contacted them to explain what happened, express regret or offer compensation, which is expected under Timorese tradition.
Killed: Gracinda Da Costa.


Killed: Gracinda Da Costa. Photo: Steve Tickner

Australians serving in East Timor effectively have immunity for crimes they commit, on or off duty.

Cornelio Baros, Mrs da Costa's son-in-law and the family spokesman, told The Age the family received Mrs da Costa's body from a hospital the day after she died but had not been contacted by anyone in authority, including the ISF, the United Nations and Timorese police.

''My family is upset we have not heard anything since the accident,'' Mr Baros said.

He said the family appreciated how Australian soldiers had helped bring peace to East Timor, but ''they need to take care of their responsibilities and not harm those they seek to protect''.

Mr Baros, a former World Vision employee, said compensation was warranted because of the hardship Mrs da Costa's death had caused family members, including her daughters Fatima, 13, and Josefina, 15, who are now living with different families.

''I miss my mother very much and am very sad,'' Josefina said. ''I loved her very much because she did so many things for us, cooking, mending clothes, providing things we need for school and constantly looking for work to find money to support us.''

Under Timorese tradition, families are compensated, even in a token way, by people involved in a death, no matter who is to blame.

A brief statement issued by the Australian Defence Force on January 21 - more than a month after the accident - said ISF personnel administered first aid to a woman they did not identify before she was taken by an East Timorese ambulance to the Dili hospital.

It said an ISF medical officer who went to the hospital that afternoon confirmed she had only a broken leg and lacerations.

But family members and hospital staff have told The Age that Mrs da Costa's injuries were severe. Mr Baros said she had a 10-centimetre opening in her skull. Doctors had operated for three hours to try to save her but told family members her condition was ''helpless''.

A Defence spokesperson said yesterday that when an ISF officer left the hospital, Mrs da Costa was stable, conscious and alert.

The Defence statement on January 21 said it was not until January 1 that an ISF medical officer asked about the woman's health during a visit to the hospital and was told she had died on the evening of admission.

Mr Baros said the accident happened about 100 metres from Mrs da Costa's home.

When he arrived at the scene shortly afterwards she was lying on the ground bleeding heavily from the head.

Mrs da Costa lost everything when her home was burnt down by pro-Indonesian militia in 1999 and she struggled to raise her nine children and many grandchildren.

One of her sons, Leopoldino Exposto, 27, was shot dead alongside rebel leader Alfredo Reinado at the villa of East Timorese President Jose Ramos Horta on February 11, 2008.

In response to questions from The Age, a Defence spokesperson said yesterday that as Timorese police were conducting an investigation ''it is inappropriate for the ISF to be in contact with the da Costa family''.

The spokesperson said an ISF vehicle was unable to avoid hitting Mrs da Costa as she was attempting to cross the road, and that an ISF medical officer gave Mrs da Costa's family compensation claim forms on the day she was admitted to hospital.

But Mr Baros told The Age the family had no idea how to seek compensation.

He said he was told by the office of East Timor's Secretary of State that the ISF was responsible for the death.

The status of Australian troops in East Timor has been controversial since they were sent there in 2006 to quell violence.

The Howard government refused requests by the government in Dili and the United Nations for the Australians to be put under UN command.

Under the UN's system of accountability, national forces operating in foreign countries must answer to an outside body.

La'o Hamutuk, a Timorese non-government organisation, told an Australian parliamentary committee in 2008 there needed to be a ''clear, independent and transparent process for Timorese citizens to report to resolve complaints against the Australian military''.

La'o Hamutuk told the committee that Australian forces in East Timor should be integrated into the UN peacekeeping chain of command.

Image: Josefina Ba Kita, 15, was orphaned when her mother was killed by an ISF vehicle in Dili. Photo: Steve Tickner

26 January 2010

Human Rights Abuses by Out-of-Control Timor Cops



The above is a link to you tube for footage of an unjustified and brutal
attack on a youth university student on Atauro Island, during the
inauguration of the International Fishing Competition on 27 November 2009.

24 January 2010

East Timor Legal News 19 January 2010

Parliament calls on F-FDTL to respond to rumors about Ninja Timor Post 19 January 2010 The Timorese Parliament has called for the Government to deploy the Timorese National Police (PNTL) officers and the Timorese Defense Force (F-FDTL) soldiers to manhunt unidentified groups that have threatened people and impeded their economic and agricultural activities in Bobonaro and Kovalima districts.

Parliament to meet with PM Gusmao Timor Post 19 January 2010 The Parliament has planned to meet with Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao talking on political consensus about appointing commissary for the approved anti-corruption commission (KAK).

Government reforms Procurement Department Timor Post 19 January 2010 Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao said everyone should help support the Government he led by improving the image of Timor-Leste as one of the most corrupt countries in the world.

Court tries a serious crime case committed in 1999 Timor Post 19 January 2010 The Dili District Court has tried a serious crime case committed in 1999 occurred in Kovalima district. The accused in this case is Domingos Norohna alias Maubuti and is a member of pro-Indonesia militia man.

PNTL commander has contacted Vikeke police commander: Monteiro Timor Post 19 January 2010 The Timorese Police Commander, Longinhos Monteiro said he had contacted Vikeke District Police Commander in relation to the police officers’ act of beating up residents in Uatulari sub district.

PM Gusmao: Politician should not mention autonomist in Timor-Leste Diario Nacional 19 January 2010 Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão has called for all the politicians not to mention autonomist [people who wanted to join Indonesia] in Timor-Leste.

Alkatiri: Article No. 85 and 106 should be amended Diario Nacional 19 January 2010 Fretilin Secretary General Mari Alkatiri said it was important to amend the Timorese Constitution, mainly the article No. 85 which was about the competence of the president and the article 106 about the appointment.

Community policing officers plant rice with farmers in Manufahi Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 19 January 2010 Community Policing officers in the southern district of Manufahi have worked together with the farmers in implementing a pilot project of planting rice.

Image added by ETLJB: The East Timor National Parliament

SRSG Ameerah Haq opening remarks at UNMIT Press Conference

13 January 2010 Ameerah Haq Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Timor-Leste - Gyorgy Kakuk (UNMIT Spokesperson): Welcome everybody, Thanks for accepting our invitation for today's press conference which will be held by the newly appointed SRSG, Ameerah Haq. Perhaps you all know she arrived in Timor-Leste last week on the 5th of January. We are going to proceed with the SRSG's initial statement and then we will open up for questions. So please be prepared.

Ameerah Haq: Good morning everybody and thank you very much for coming here. I am really delighted to have an opportunity to speak with all of you today. First of all let me tell you how very pleased I am to be in your beautiful country. I have already had the privilege of meeting many of your leaders. It is a great honour for me to be here leading the efforts of the United Nations to help the people of Timor-Leste and Timorese authorities to continue to consolidate peace and development in your country.

It is exactly a week since I have been here. I remarked to many people how beautiful the country was as I was flying into Dili. And also in driving around Dili town I am very impressed at what I sense is a vibrancy in this town: internet cafes are full, shops are thriving. It is great to see how people are moving around in a town that is peaceful and secure.

I have had the privilege and honour to meet your President, the Prime Minister, the President of the National Parliament, the Secretary-General of Fretilin, among others. And just this morning I felt very privileged to have been able to address the Council of Ministers. I have felt very warmly welcomed by all.

I am also very impressed with the relationship, the depth of the relationship, between the United Nations and the people of Timor-Leste. This has been developed, as you know, over many years, and I am privileged to be leading the United Nations now to help the people in Timor-Leste to continue with nation- and state-building. I am committed to continuing the work that the United Nations has done here, and in my role as the leader of the United Nations I look forward to the invitations that I have had from your leadership for frank and cordial discussions on many issues that we both need to address.

Most of all I am really very happy to have this opportunity today to meet with all of you, as journalists and media. I consider that you have a very important role to play in the development of your country, and your role is absolutely vital to strengthening democracy. I think a free and independent media is one of the essential ingredients of democracy. You have a very important responsibility in conveying a lot of the key messages to the citizens of your country. Information is a source of empowerment. That power, I feel, must be used responsibly. I consider your role very important in making that information go out far and wide all through Timor-Leste. You as media have a very important role to play in advocacy, in setting policy agendas and in social and economic development.

In all of my work in the UN, which has been for quite a long time, I have always stressed that the relationship with the media is one of the ingredients that will make me a good leader of the United Nations. So I look forward to this relationship with all of you. And I know that you have a very good relationship already with our Public Information Office and I look forward to working with them so that we can address many of the challenging issues ahead of us.

Let me take this opportunity, then, as a piece of information, to tell you that right now in the country there is a Technical Assessment Mission of the United Nations. The role of this, we call it the TAM Mission, is to assess the requirements and the situation in Timor-Leste as it relates to the mission of UNMIT. Over a period that started in November there have been extensive consultations with many stakeholders, with the Government, with civil society and I think with the media, and also with bilateral donors. In this final week we have our colleagues who have come from New York and who are meeting with Government authorities, with Members of Parliament, with civil society and a broad range of stakeholders, and they are looking at what the role of UNMIT will be between now and 2012. We are very hopeful that the recommendations which we will all arrive at together will strengthen the partnership between the United Nations and the Government of Timor-Leste on focusing in what we can best do in the period between now and 2012.

Image added by ETLJB: An East Timorese rice farmer.

East Timor Directory - Discover enigmatic East Timor online with East Timor Directory

East Timor Justice Sector Support Facility - ICT System and Network Support Assistants (4 Positions) – Office of Prosecutor General

GRM is the Managing Contractor for the Australian Government assistance provided to Timor-Leste via the East Timor Justice Sector Support Facility (ETJSSF) - The Justice Facility

We are seeking four ICT System and Network Support Assistants to work with the Office of Prosecutor General. Each contract is for a six month term. At the completion of this six month contract the positions will be advertised as full time on-going public service positions with the Office of the Prosecutor General. They will be advertised through the Civil Service Commission at that time. Those who have successfully completed this six month contract will be well positioned to obtain these on-going public service positions.

Successful applicants must commence work on Monday 8th February, 2010.
Successful applicants will undergo training in Dili initially for four weeks, and then further training in Boston, USA, for two weeks from 15-30 March. Successful applicants MUST be available to attend all the training or will not be considered for these positions.

Salary level for these positions is equivalent to Grade D (level 4) within the public service of Timor Leste.

Timorese applicants residing in Timor Leste are encouraged to apply


Instructions for Applicants

All applications are screened for compliance upon receipt. Only those applications that comply with all instructions and include a completed Application Cover Sheet (see below) will be forwarded to the staff responsible for technical evaluation.

Please contact Lidia Santos via email on: Lidia.santos@grm.tl or +670 331 2207 if you have any questions.

Please submit with your application by January 25th 2009 to: Lidia.santos@grm.tl or Justice Facility Office Bairro De Villa Verde.

Please provide the following document:
· A completed application coversheet, available below at the last page of this document
· Your curriculum vitae.

Applications can be in English, Portuguese, Tetun and should not contain any additional material. Applications via email are preferred.

Assessment

A panel will assess applications on the basis of technical merit and availability to complete the training.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: ICT System and Network Support

Office of the Prosecutor General

Category: Technical – Professional
Grade: D (Level 4)
Directorate: Communication and Technology
Salary: US$_____ per month
Department / Section: Help Desk
Location: Dilli, Office of the Prosecutor General
Job Number:
Status: Temporary – 6 months

Reports to: Manager, Communication and Technology Services OPG and
Senior Management Adviser, Justice Facility, for 6 month contract period.

A. Description of the Functional Content of the Job:

Under the overall supervision of the Manager (Communication and Technology Services) and with the assistance of the ICT System and Network Support Officer, the incumbent is responsible for providing effective assistance from the Help Desk to Users and support to the Network and Systems. That includes support and training to users and other help desk staff on office applications, email, internet, special software setups and problems solving to enable users to utilise their approved technology. The incumbent will also be responsible for the support and management of the network and systems in place, including installation and configuration of servers and also troubleshooting of problems related, ensuring that timely services are provided to the Professional Officers of the service to enable them to complete their objectives.

B. Specific Requirements of the Job:

1. In accordance with established policy, procedure and protocol, respond to user needs and provide support services related to office applications, computer operations, email, intranet, chat system, VOIP system, and special software set ups.
2. Troubleshooting problems for both users and servers, assuring minimal downtime of computers and services that are provided to the users within the prosecution service.
3. Report to the Manager, Communication and Technology Services, any user needs including hardware, software, backup, anti virus, cabling, switches, UPS, IP Phones, servers, desktop, scanners, laptops, routers, firewall, modems, printers, spare parts and consumables.
4. In accordance with established policy, procedure and protocol, attend to software installation and configuration, including routine maintenance and upgrading of user workstations and physical installation, configuration, change and testing of equipments.
5. Assist in the installation, configuration and maintenance of the physical set up of the LAN and WAN, including hardware and software such as Switchs, Wi-fi Access Points and WiMax modems.
6. Assist in the support and troubleshooting of systems such as Web, database, proxy, mail and file servers.
7. Provide maintenance, monitoring and updating of security policies, including anti virus protection software, access control and privacy issues.
8. As directed, provide reports on user audit trails and actions performed on the network.
9. Identify User training needs, and develop or access training to meet these needs. Report through the Manager Communication and Technology Services to the Director Administration and Human Resources on these training needs and programs to meet them.

C. Selection Requirements (aligned to requirements of the Public Service of Timor-Leste):
1. Mandatory Requirements:
a) Be a citizen of Tmor-Leste
b) Be a minimum of 17 and a maximum of 50 years old;
c) Have no history of criminal conduct for which a person could be sentenced to 2 or more years of imprisonment, and not have done anything which could be considered incompatible with the functions to be undertaken in the public administration;
d) Have never been dismissed from a State Institution;
e) Be ready to be placed in any part of the national territory or at an official mission overseas;
f) Be ready to travel within the country and overseas;
g) Be in good health and be physically and mentally able to undertake the function for which he/she is competing.
h) Demonstrated capacity (written and spoken) in one of the official languages (Tetun or Portuguese).
i) Demonstrated written and spoken ability with either Bahasa Indonesa or English to a technical level for Information Technology purposes.
j) Competent in English IT language

Mandatory Qualification Requirements
Bachelor (3 – 4 years or equivalent) in Computer Science, Information Systems, Computer Engineering or related field from an Institution recognised by the Ministry of Education in Timor Leste.

2. Additional qualifications, skills and experience specific to the position:
a) Minimum 2 years successful experience working in an Information Technology field;
b) Excellent computer skills and a demonstrated desire to keep up to date and continually improve these skills;
c) Demonstrated understanding of the role of a Help Desk and its support function to the users, systems and network in an organisation;
d) Experience on identifying problems and troubleshooting IT equipments, such as workstations, laptops, printers, scanners and switches.
e) Ability to deploy network cabling and to install switches, routers, access points and authorized software.
f) Understanding of desktop and server security, including viruses, access control, and privacy issues and how to enforce them in the workplace.
g) Previous working experience with Linux, Systems Administration and/or Open Source tools will be considered an asset.
h) High Level Interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to tactfully investigate and identify user problems. Ability to understand and translate problems experienced by users into solutions. Ability to explain in simple language to users the requirements on them to prevent future problems.
i) Experience in developing and presenting simple training sessions to users to resolve skill or knowledge needs.
j) Demonstrated ability to negotiate and resolve conflicts that may arise in the workplace;
k) Demonstrated ability to engage with senior management, external clients and service providers and the ability to develop a team approach to the information technology function;
l) Willingness to deliver ongoing on the job training, in Dili and in the Districts. Willingness to travel frequently to the districts.

RECRUITMENT PREFERENCES:

Appointment will be determined by merit. Where applicants have equal merit, preference will be given to applicants who are:
· Women; and/or
· Aged between 20 and 30 years.

EAST TIMOR (TIMOR-LESTE) JUSTICE SECTOR SUPPORT FACILITY (ETJSSF)


Applications must reach GRM International by 5.00pm on Monday 25th January. Applications may be submitted in English, Portuguese or Tetun. Email: Lidia.santos@grm.tl or Justice Facility Office Barrio De Villa Verde

Iha Inisiu Fulan Janeiro 2010 Tribunal Distrital Oe-Cusse La hala'o Julgamentu

ETLJB Editor's Note: Unfortunately, despite the many millions of donor money spent in the justice sector in East Timor, JSMP -a leading and respected justice sector civil society organisation - still can not translate the critical reports it publishes on the legal system. Consequently, the following report on the Oecusse District Court is only available in Tetum. Shame donors! Shame!

Judicial System Monitoring Program Dili Timor-Leste Komunikado Imprensa Janeiro 2010 - Iha semana 2 inisiu fulan Janeiro 2010 Tribunal Distrital Oe-Cusse (TDO) la iha agenda julgamentu ba kazu ruma tantu kazu krime no civil. Situasaun ne’e akontese tanba Juiz nain rua ne’ebe maka toma konta serbisu iha area Jurisdisaun tribunal Oecusse nian sei dauk fila husi ferias. Juiz nain rua ne’e mak Dr. Antonio Helder no Dr. Francisco Fereira ne’ebe maka passa ferias Natal no Ano Novo nian ne’e seidauk hala’o ninia kna’ar iha sira nia serbisu fatin tanba sira sei iha Dili.

Sr. Vasco Kehi nu’udar Ofisial Justisa iha TDO,. iha nia servisu fatin esplika katak tanba juiz sira seidauk fila husi sira nia feiras, nune’e julgamentu seidauk bele hala’o”. Nune’e mos tuir ofisial ne’e haktuir katak, tuir agenda TDO nian ne’ebe konfirmadu ona katak, julgamentu foin bele hahu fali iha dia 19, 20 no 21 de Janeiro. Ofisial Justisa ne’e mos esplika katak, kazu 4 tuir mai ne’ebe maka agenda tiha ona atu julga iha data hirak ne’ebe determinadu iha leten mak hanesan tuir mai ne’e:

1. Prosesu No. 48/PCO/09/TDO [ Arg. E T]
2. Prosesu No.47/PCO/09/TDO [ Arg. C K]
3. Prosesu No. 26/PCO/09/TDO [Arg. C C]
4. Prosesu No. 49/PCO/09/TDO [ Arg. I d R].

Tuir livro regista nian ne’ebe maka Ofisial Justisa TDO nian inforna katak, volume kazu iha TDO la duun barak.Nia mos esplika katak iha fulan Janeiro nia laran, iha deit prosesu singular 4 ne’ebe maka regista ona mai be kazu sira ne’e tama iha tinan uluk 2009 nian.

Alende numeru kazu ne’ebe uitoan, ofisial ne’e mos esplika katak, “iha TDO ikus-ikus ne’e kazu laduun barak maka regista. Maske akontese kazu ruma, partes sira refere liu ba rezolve tuir kustume ou tesi iha lia nain sira”.

Kona ba kazu Civil, ofisial ne’e hateten katak durante tinan kotuk liu ba TDO prosesa kazu ida ka rua deit. Tanba prosesu civil ne’e nia prosesual kleur. Nune’e TDO durante ne’e sei fokus liu liu ba prosesu krime nian.

Hare husi situasaun aktual sira ne’ebe maka akontese iha Tribunal Distrital de Oe-Cusse no Tribunal Distrital sira seluk, JSMP hakarak ho honestidade requere ba orgaun kompetente atu tau matan ho buka meius atu aumenta tan atór tribunal, funsionarius sira hodi nune’e bele responde ba nesesidade kada tribunal ninian hodi halo servisu tribunal nian efetivo liu tan iha tempu oin mai.

Atu hetan informasaun klaru favor kontaktu: Luis de Oliveira Sampaio Diretor Ezekutivu JSMP Diresaun e-mail: luis@jsmp.minihub.org Landline: 3323883

Timor-Leste Government: Public Finance Management will provide public access with the click of a button

The Secretary of State for the Council of Ministers and Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste Agio Pereira January 22, 2010Dili, Timor-Leste - Public Finance Management will provide public access with the click of a button

The Council of Ministers has just approved amendments to the procurement juridical regime to further enhance the responsibility of each ministry to undertake due processes to ensure successful budget execution at all levels.

The changes establish a new Technical Secretariat and a Commission which includes members of the civil society to directly oversee the procurement processes. The next steps of reforms will include changes to the treasury and free balance regimes.

The Xanana Gusmão government plans to make a major and decisive move to make public financial management of Timor-Leste one of the most transparent in the world.

The Government has been in discussions with FreeBalance, a global provider of software solutions for public financial management to provide further support for the modernization of Timor-Leste’s public financial management systems.

Secretary of State Pereira said “The next generation of public financial management technology will allow the public to track the budget live, to see where every dollar is being spent, and to gain renewed confidence in the process.”

As part of the Public Financial Modernization and for strengthening governance and transparency, the Government of Timor-Leste is going to implement the e-Procurement System which allows the citizens to scrutinize what the Government is procuring and who is being awarded, at the same time this will promote local economic development and better expenditure management by creating more vendor awareness.

Pereira noted ‘This state of the art technology will be a major step in providing transparency and accountability to Timor-Leste for this Government and all future Governments. The Government of the day will have immediate access to accurate data to prepare for future budgets and to provide a thorough archival system for country wide analysis. These initiatives will be a major advancement in the Xanana Gusmão Governments anti-corruption measures.”

While other countries have made progress with public financial management, Timor-Leste is looking to take advantage of the next generation of comprehensive and integrated web-based solutions to meet the requirements of the nation. Such systems not only provide public access to real time information but also the ability to link financial data with the Objectives of the Government; which can be tracked to the outcome and results of any given budget allocation.

Pereira concluded by saying “This major step in transparency will eventually eliminate much of the speculation over budget allocations, budget execution rates, project implementation and provide exact data in real time to the public. The project will be a challenging technical undertaking; but an important initiative for the people of Timor-Leste to take ownership of information on how public money is being managed while enhancing and safeguarding quality control.” ENDS

23 January 2010

Joint UN Police and Policia Nacional Timor-Leste Press Conference

Police Commissioner Luis Carrilho and PNTL General Commander Longuinhos Monteiro

12 January, 2010PNTL Headquarters, Dili

Excerpts from transcript of remarks by Police Commissioner Luis Carrilho

Good afternoon. Thank you for your presence here. I would like first of all to salute PNTL General Commander and to wish all of you happy New Year 2010.

First of all I would like reassure community members that UNPOL and PNTL, United Nations Police and Polícia Nacional Timor-Leste are working together all over Timor-Leste including of course the capital Dili, to assure and to maintain public order. Of course as you know we are in the resumption process in the districts where UNPOL will have the primary responsibility, together with PNTL. In the other districts we are assisting Polícia Nacional Timor-Leste to discharge the police duties.

Unfortunately we all know during the holiday period, Christmas and New Year’s Eve, police had to address more incidents than usual. I am also aware that unfortunately more than one incident had a very tragic ending, which we all consider regrettable.

As our colleagues said earlier, this case is under serious scrutiny. A joint PNTL and UNPOL internal inquiry has been launched. There is a criminal investigation going on, that as you know according to the laws in Timor-Leste, the Penal Code and the procedure of the penal code, is run by the Public Prosecutor.

In the meantime, as you know measures, were taken in terms of discipline…One PNTL officer…has been placed on preventive suspension pending internal inquiry and investigation. I can not comment on ongoing inquiry or criminal investigation. And we all should allow the case to be properly processed. I would also stress that everyone is innocent until proven guilty and given a fair trail and we should respect that. Police officers are also entitled to this right

I would like also to seize this opportunity publically, I know that the General Commander of PNTL already did it personally, but I will take this opportunity publically to express my condolences to the family of the victims of the incidents, especially of the incident at Delta Nova, the family of Mr. Correia.

I would also like to make it clear that police officers, UNPOL and PNTL, are doing their utmost to make Dili, every place in Dili and Timor-Lest,e a safe place. Law and order is an essential part, of course, of a secure society where human rights are protected, human rights of all people. And professional policing is essential to guarantee law and order.

Another essential part of law and order is of course the cooperation of the community.
We the police, we need the cooperation of the community. By listening to each other, respecting each other, working together we can make Dili and we can make Timor-Leste a safer and more secure place for everyone. Police need the support and the help of the community.

I will not focus on statistics however I can make them, we can make them available to everyone, because I know that behind every statistic there is a human face. I would like also to stress that the statistics are good in Timor-Leste. And it is important also to bear in mind that overall policing in Timor-Leste has improved greatly in the recent years, especially in the streets of Dili. And as you know Timor-Leste is now a safer place, much safer than it was in 2006, not safer only compared with 2006 but safer compared with some other places in the world. That should be our comparison. And the people and the police of this country should and can be proud of this fact.

We of course can and must do more. We UNPOL and PNTL must work hard to earn and maintain the people’s trust. We must always be there for your service in the streets of Dili, Baucau, Maliana, Suai and all the other places and towns and villages of Timor-Leste working with you to uphold law and order. We can assure you that this is our duty, and our goal is and will always be to keep working to improve ourselves to make Timor-Leste a safer place and a good place to live like it is today.

Timor-Leste Legal News 12 January 2010

A man detained for killing his wife Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 12 January 2010 Police of Manatuto station has detained a twenty-eight year old man, due to he is engaged in killing his wife.

Paixao does not want put hands into decision of Defense and Security ministry Diario Nacional 12 January 2010 Deputy Parliamentary President Maria Paixão said she did not want to put her hands into decision made by Ministry for Defense and Security, Xanana Gusmao to limit the Timorese task force police’s response to situation.

Government is successfully reforming Defense and Security sector Diario Nacional 12 January 2010 The UN’s Secretary General Special Representative to Timor-Leste, Ameerah Haq has Praised Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão’s efforts of reforming the Timorese Defense Force (F-FDTL) and the Timorese National Police (PNTL) institutions in the country.

PD and Fretilin concerned about UN Police’s work Timor Newsline 12 January 2010 The Democratic Party (PD) in the Parliament is very concerned about the UN Police officers in the terrain, due to they are incapable of responding to conflict appears.

President Horta and Alkatiri hold secret meeting Diario Nacional 12 January 2010 President Jose Ramos Horta and Fretilin Secretary General Mari Alkatiri have held a secret meeting at the President Horta’s residence in Metiaut of Dili.

Timor-Leste Legal News 20 January 2010

Community of Wesoru rejects allegation against police officers Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 20 January 2010 The community members of Wesoru, Uatulari sub district of Vikeke have rejected recent statement made by some residents during a press conference saying the Uatulari police officers engaged in maltreating people.

Police in Bobonaro finds out facts on groups threaten residents Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 20 January 2010 Police of Bononaro district on Tuesday (19/1) has held an operation in Lolotoi sub district to find out facts about unidentified groups that suspected of threatening and assaulting the residents.

F-FDTL ready to provide security to residents: Colonel Paixao Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 20 January 2010 The Timorese Defense Force (F-FDTL) Chief of Staffs, Colonel Filomeno Paixao said he had not received yet information about well-organized groups that had threatened and frightened residents in the district of Kovalima and Bobonaro, yet they were ready to provide security to the residents in these districts.

Horta supports AMP Government as it is legal Diario Nacional 20 January 2010 President Jose Ramos Horta said he should support the Parliamentary Majority Alliance (AMP) Government, as it was legal.

Horta calls on Lamasa and Gusmao to resolve issue of Anti-Corruption Commissioner Chief Diario Nacional 20 January 2010 President Jose Ramos Horta has called on the Parliamentary President Fernando Lasama de Araujo and Prime Minister Xaanana Gusmao to resolve as soon as possible the issue of appointing commissary for the approved anti-corruption commission.

Some ministers sign invoice recklessly: Horta Diario Nacional 20 January 2010 President Jose Ramos Horta said he there was indication of corruption found within the Government, but he did not tell it specifically, yet based on his observation that some ministers signed invoice recklessly.

Police commander yet to receive claims about rumors on Ninja Diario Nacional 20 January 2010 The Timorese Operational Police Commander, Inspector Mateus Fernandes said the PNTL had not received yet any claims from the residents in Kovalima and Bobonaro on Ninja who had tried to kill and threaten the residents.

Horta, Gusmao, Alkatiri and Lu-Olo hold secret meeting Timor Post 20 January 2010 President Jose Ramos Horta, Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao, Fretilin Secretary General Mari Alkatiri and Fretilin Party’s President Francisco Lu-Olo Guterres have hald a secret meeting at the presedint’s recidence in Metiaut of Dili.

Fernandes: PNTL has responded to Ninja and situation is calm now Timor Post 20 January 2010 Timorese Police Operational Commander, Inspector Mateus Fernandes said they had overcome movement of the illegal group who were in mask like ninja in Bobonaro and Kovalima districts.

TO read more about martial arts gangs including the so-called ninjas, please see 2009 ETLJ 1 The Regulation of Martial Arts in East Timor: An Overview of Law No 10 of 2008 on the practice of martial arts on East Timor Law Journal - Towards the rule of law in Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste Legal News 21 January 2010

Headlines: President Horta is yet to testify in court - PNTL’s role limited by supplementary agreement - PNTL commanders give chance community to make assessment - A young man killed after martial art clubs clash - Matak denies allegation that CPD-RDTL is involved with ninjas - Police officers engaged in maltreating residents is falsehood - Comoro’s village chief pledges to resolve Faularan case - AMP needs to pay attention to PDHJ’s mandate - Government has right to find another Company - Fretilin questions about project provided to PM Gusmao’s relatives - Police seize three air rifles from residents in the border

President Horta is yet to testify in court
Diario Nacional 21 January 2010 President Jose Ramos Horta is yet to testify in the court regarding the attempted assassination to him by the rebel leader, Alfredo Alves Reinado and his follower on the February 11, 2008.

PNTL’s role limited by supplementary agreement
Timor Post 21 January 2010 The Timorese people should understand the decision to limit the Timorese National Police (PNTL) role in responding to situations in the country because the supplementary agreement gives the UN Police power to undertake security in Timor-Leste.

PNTL commanders give chance community to make assessment Timor Post 21 January 2010 Timorese National Police (PNTL) General Commander Commissioner Longuinhos Monteiro said responsibility for responding to acts of violence in the country was currently in the hands of the UN Police as the PNTL wants to give the Timorese people a chance of making an assessment of both the PNTL and UN Police’s work.

A young man killed after martial art clubs clash Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 21 January 2010 A young man has died in Ostique village Vemase sub district of Baukau after a martial art clubs’ clash, Vemase Administrator Thomas Francisco says.

Matak denies allegation that CPD-RDTL is involved with ninjas Timor Post 21 January 2010 General Coordinator for CPD-RDTL [a Timorese Resistance Organization] Antonio Aitahan Matak has denied an allegation that the CPD-RDTL’s members engaged in ninja movements in Bobonaro and Kovalima districts.

Police officers engaged in maltreating residents is falsehood Timor Post 21 January 2010 The Timorese Operational Police (PNTL) Commander Inspector Mateus Fernandes has denied an allegation that his police officers engaged in maltreating residents in Uatulati of Vikeke saying it is falsehood.

Comoro’s village chief pledges to resolve Faularan case Timor Post 21 January 2010 Village chief of Comoro Eurico da Costa has pledged to cooperate with the PNTL and the UN Police to resolve as soon as possible the assault case that happened in Faulara in Bebonuk in Dili.

AMP needs to pay attention to PDHJ’s mandate Diario Nacional 21 January 2010 MP Antonino Bianco said the Parliamentary Majority Alliance (AMP) should pay attention to the Human Rights and Justice Ombudsman (PDHJ) mandate which had ended.

Government has right to find another Company Diario Nacional 21 January 2010 State Secretary for Natural Resources Alfredo Pires said Woodside Company had no capability to build up pipeline from the Greater Sun Rise oil and gas field; therefore the Government had absolute right to find another company to replace it.

Fretilin questions about project provided to PM Gusmão’s relatives Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 21 January 2010 Fretilin MP Arsenio Bano has questioned about the Department of Procurement that continues to give big projects to the relatives of Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao.

Police seize three air rifles from residents in the border Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 21 January 2010 The Timorese National Police (PNTL) has seized three air rifles from the residents in the border area of Kovalima district, as they [the air rifles] are illegally taken from west Timor.

East Timor Law Journal

22 January 2010

Dili woman died after being hit by Australian army vehicle

Sydney Morning Herald January 22, 2010 - AN AUSTRALIAN Defence Force vehicle in East Timor struck a pedestrian last month, and she later died, but the Department of Defence has taken almost three weeks to make the information public.

The department issued a statement yesterday saying an accident between the vehicle operating as part of the International Stabilisation Force and the East Timorese pedestrian had occurred on December 18.

First aid was given by Defence Force personnel, and the woman was taken to hospital with a broken leg and lacerations.

An International Stabilisation Force medical officer visited the woman in Dili Hospital that afternoon, the statement said.

It was not until the medical officer visited the hospital on January 1, and inquired about the woman's condition, that it was advised the woman had died on the evening she was admitted.

A Department of Defence spokeswoman declined last night to comment on why the information had not been made public earlier. ''The ISF immediately contacted local police to offer assistance in the investigation and were informed the matter was not under investigation,'' a defence media statement said.

It also said the International Stabilisation Force was conducting an internal investigation.

Ellie Harvey

Image added by ETLJB

19 January 2010

East Timor Legal News 18 January 2010

Parliament to approve the draft law on municipalities Diario Naciona l18 January 2010 Parliamentary President Fernando Lasama de Araujo said the Parliament would approve the draft law on the municipalities system based on the set timetable.

Parliament will approve municipality system law next month Timor Post 18 January 2010 Parliamentary President Fernando “Lasama” de Araujo said the Parliament will approve the Law on Municipality System next month as it would support elections for municipal assemblies that will be held this year.

UN to provide security and facilities for municipal assembly elections Timor Newsline15 January 2010 Special Representative of the Secretary General Ameerah Haq said the UN was ready to provide security and facilities for the process of the country's municipal assembly elections.

33 of PNTL officers do not participate in promotion test Diario Nacional 18 January 2010 State Secretary for Security Francisco Guterres said that 33 police officers failed to attend promotion examinations.

Police Commander Monteiro: PNTL task force to suspend operations for training Timor Post 18 January 2010 Timorese National Police (PNTL) Commander Commissioner Longuinhos Monteiro said the PNTL Task Force team would stop carrying out their work in order to participate in training.

Police to set up information center for claims Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 18 January 2010 Timorese Police Commander Commissary Longuinhos Monteiro said the police would set up an information center for claims so that people could come to put their claims and information in connection with the police's work.

UN Police Commissioner concerned about attitude of police officers Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 18 January 2010 The UN Police Commissioner Luis Carrilho said he was concerned about the attitude of police officers against the communities and said the UN Police would make efforts to provide training to increase quality and professionalism of the Timorese National Police (PNTL).

F-FDTL promotes four of its officials Radio Televisaun Timor Leste15 January 2010 The Timorese Defence Force (F-FDTL) has today (14/1) promoted four of its officials to the rank of colonel. Those F-FDTL officials are Colonel Maunana, Colonel Falur Rate Laek, Colonel Pedro Klamar Fuik and Colonel Filomeno Paixao.

Major General Ruak calls on his four colonels to work harder Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 15 January 2010 The Timorese Defense Force (F-FDTL) Commander Major General Taur Matak Ruak has called on four of the F-FDTL new colonels promoted today to work harder to create a disciplined, nationalist and patriotic defense force.

General Ruak: F-FDTL recruitment in 2011 will focus on masters Timor Post 18 January 2010 Timorese Defense Force (F-FDTL) Commander Major General Taur Matan Ruak said the F-FDTL would prioritise on recruiting those who had academic titles such as S1, S2 and S3, so that they could be responsible for the F-FDTL’s administration.

Ruak: F-FDTL has prepared a concept plan Radio Televisaun Timor Leste18 January 2010 Timorese Defense Force (F-FDTL) Commander Major General Taur Matan Ruak said they had prepared a concept plan known as “2020” in order to better develop the defense force.

Government supports new UN chief: State secretary for Council of Ministers Radio Televisaun Timor Leste15 January 2010 The Timorese Government has expressed its support for the new Chief of the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) to strengthen the program of development in the country.

UN technical team is making assessment to UNMIT Mission Radio Televisaun Timor Leste15 January 2010 The UN technical team is currently conducting an assessment of the United Nations Integrated Mission’s work and is also consulting with the country's political leaders to get their opinions about making changes to the UNMIT Mission.

PM Gusmao: Government agrees to replace its Anti-Corruption Commission nominee Aderito de Jesus Soares Timor Post15 January 2010 Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao said the Government was ready to replace its nominee Aderito de Jesus Soares with another figure to take up the leadership of the anti-corruption commission so that a consensus could be reached.

18 January 2010

UNDP Timor-Leste: Becora Prison Development

Becora, Timor-Leste: 14 January 2010 - Looking at the Google Earth images above it is easy to see the physical improvements that have been made at the Becora prison over the past 3 years. However, in addition to the physical improvements, there are numerous other improvements in the capacity of prison guards, and also the conditions of living for the prisoners. The above photos show the physical development over the past two years, the photo on the left taken the 2007 and the photo on the right, in 2009. Prisons Director, Ms. Helena Madeira Gomes, remarks that the progress over the past two years has been very notable.

Of most importance is that effective security measures have been created and resulted in the fact that no prisoners have escaped from the prison since 2007. She advised that "in the years up to 2007, numerous prisoners escaped over the years , the number over 100." It was at this time that the JSP began to assist the Prison System with the provision of two specialized advisors. Since that time, the UNDP JSP has collaborated with the Ministry of Justice to give recommendations for development, as well as implement the MoJ Strategic Plan for the Correction Services. The significant improvements in security can be credited to a exterior wall build by the Ministry of Justice and a fence constructed by the JSP.

Additionally, the Prison advisors have worked with national trainers, to deliver trainings aimed at the capacity development of the prison guards. Initially, trainings in basic security began and more recently have been expanded into new areas such as first aid, self defense and maintaining security in a situation of prisoner disturbance. UNDP has also implemented a training of trainers in these topics, to ensure the sustainability of the JSP support. Developments at Becora Prison have not only created a secure facility, but have also worked towards international standards. The JSP will continue to work with the Prison service on further developments in physical and human resource, in line with national strategic objectives.


see pictures at http://www.tl.undp.org/undp/Becora%20Prison%20Development.htm

ETLJB expresses the deepest condolences to the people of Haiti as the rule of law collapses

ETLJB 18 January 2010 - ETLJB expresses the deepest condolences to the people of Haiti after their capital city Port au Prince was destroyed in a massive earthquake - leaving tens of thousands dead and hundreds of thousands injured. Unknown destruction outside of the capital remains to be encountered.

This image shows the Presidential palace - the centre of political power in Haiti and symbol of the nation - devastated by the horrifying tremblor.

Along with the buildings and the lives of those lost and injured, the rule of law is also crumbling rapidly as violence and chaos threaten to cascade into further destruction.

Looting, mob justice and summary executions have already commenced. The security forces are dysfunctional as is the entire state apparatus.

Delays in international aid will further endanger public security and law and order.

You can assist by donating to the Red Cross and Medecins Sans Frontieres

17 January 2010

UN Delegation discusses future of UN peacekeeping role with Alkatiri and FRETILIN

FRETILIN MEDIA RELEASE Dili, 13 January 2010 - UN Delegation discusses future of UN peacekeeping role with Alkatiri and FRETILIN


Yesterday, Monday the 12th of January in 2010, the former Prime Minister and Secretary-General of FRETILIN, Dr. Mari Alkatiri, met with a UN technical mission led by Mr. Ian Martin, together with the new SRSG Ms Ahmeera Haq and her assistant as well as other UN officials to discuss the role of the follow on UN mission to the country.

Whilst in Timor-Leste the mission will consult with the political leadership and Timorese civil society about the future and role of the UN mission in Timor-Leste.

In an interview with journalists after the meeting, Dr. Alkatiri told journalists that the meeting was very productive and positive, because it was good opportunity for him as the former Prime Minister with extensive governance experience as well as Secretary-General of the historical FRETILIN party, the largest party in Timor-Leste, to contribute to the process of building lasting peace, stability and development in Timor-Leste.

“This mission is headed by someone we all know, Mr. Ian Martin, a good friend of Timor-Leste from a long time who now comes here to listen to our views as Timorese as to how the UN can best assist Timor-Leste in the coming years to find peace, stability and development. This team will prepare a report for the Secretary General of the UN and he will in turn recommend to the UN Security Council to decide on UNMIT’s future role. For this reason it is important we share our opinions with the team so that they can better assist our country and people in the future," stated Alkatiri.

Dr. Alkatiri added, "FRETILIN is always ready to collaborate with the whole international community, especially the UN, to find a way for them to continue to provide the assistance we need to build peace and stability. But I also told them that it is important that our people do not become psychologically dependent on the international community, as is already happening in a way. What we need is for them to assist us to develop our institutions and the skills of Timorese so that in future we can live in peace and stability, which are vital to enable us to implement a development programme that will quickly lift our people from poverty.”

Dr. Alkatiri also informed journalists that Vice President of FRETILIN and Member of Parliament Arsenio Bano, and MP Jose Teixeira, and Mr. Filomeno Aleixo, Assistant to the former PM, also participated in the meeting.

“We expressed FRETILIN’s point of view about many issues of relevance to their mission and how the UN can help improve certain sectors in order to guarantee good governance. I informed them that we need national consensus in certain areas such as administrative divisions, security and defence sector reform, justice sector and how to strengthen institutions to give the public confidence in them and they in turn will fulfill their role of respecting a state based on democratic rights. I said that I was greatly worried by the situation where one constitutional branch does not respect others and interferes with the other sovereign constitutional institutions. Interference by politicians with justice for example. This needs to change for people to have confidence in their governors, in the law and the justice
system. No one is above the law.”

“Regarding the UN mandate, we in FRETILIN agree that the UN mandate should be extended for another year and until 2012 we will need to continue to reflect carefully on the situation of security and stability in the country at that time. Only then can we assess if the UN presence should continue for a further period,” Alkatiri said.

However, Alkatiri stressed that he also informed the UN mission that FRETILIN believes "that a draw down in the international stabilization forces is appropriate given the ongoing stability and improving security situation in the country."

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT MR FILOMENO ALEIXO AT 734 0383

Timor-Leste Legal News 11 January 2010

PNTL violates human rights: Amaral Diario Nacional 11 January 2010The Timorese first President Francisco Xavier do Amaral who was also the one who proclaimed Timor-Leste’s independence said the recent case of shooting that a young man in Delta Nova by police officer was human rights violation.

Parliamentary Committee B calls for people’s collaboration Timor Post 11 January 2010 Parliamentary Committee B for Defense and Security President Duarte Nunes has called for all the Timorese People to help find out solution to the weapons belong to the Timorese National Police (PNTL) which still missing.

Residents concerned about Govt decision of limiting PNTL’s power Timor Post 11 January 2010 Jose Soares a resident of Kulu-Hun (Dili) said he was concerned about the decision made by the Government for limiting the Timorese National Police (PNTL) power, mainly for Dili district police in responding to any incident that might happen in future.

SEOP respects President Horta’s threats Timor Post 11 January 2010 State Secretary for Public Works, Domingos Caero said he respected the recent comments by made President Jose Ramos Horta threatening to take minister for public works to the court in relation to road conditions in the Capital Dili.

Timor-Leste Legal News 6 -7 January 2010

Salsinha: “I am concerned about provisional sentence which has been over” Suara Timor Loro Sae 6 January 2010 Ex-rebel leader Gastao Salsinha has expressed concerns over provisional sentence given to him and his men by the court, as it has been over and says this is a kind of discrimination by the judge.

Victim’s family urges Police to detain suspect Diario Nacional 6 January 2010 Mateus de Carvalho has urged the Timorese National Police (PNTL) to detain suspects who stoned and jabbed Prime Sergeant of the Timorese Defense Force (F-FDTL) officer, Antonio Soares on January 1st 2010 in Kulau of Dili.

Delta-Nova’s incident is serious one: UN Police Diario Nacional 7 January 2010 Acting UN Police Commissary, Idris Ibrahin said the recent incident of shooting dead a young man named Valdir Sezar by a Timorese National Police (PNTL) officer who also wounded Francisco in Delta-Nova was serious case.

PNTL will not tolerate criminals Timor Post 7 January 2010 Timorese Police Commander, Commissary Longuinhos Monteiro said they would not tolerate those people who engaged in incident happened in Kulau and Becora of Dili.

State secretary for defense calls for profound investigation into F-FDTL officer assault Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 7 January 2010 State Secretary for Defense, Julio Thomas Pinto has called for the State Secretariat for security to launch a profound investigation into the assault to a Timorese Defense Force (F-FDTL) officer, as it is serious ones.

F-FDTL authorizes security institution to investigate assault to F-FDTL officer Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 7 January 2010 State Secretary for Defense, Julio Thomas Pinto said the Timorese Defense Force (F-FDTL) had fully given authorization the Timorese National Police (PNTL) to launch investigation into the assault to the F-FDTL officer, Antonio Soares.

Horta calls for people to stay away from violence Timor Post 7 January 2010 President Jose Ramos Horta has called for all the Timorese people to stay away from the act of violence in 2010.

Case of jabbing F-FDTL officer needs to be investigated profoundly Diario Nacional 7 January 2010 Timorese Defense Force (F-FDTL) Commander, Major General Taur Matan Ruak said it was important to launch a profound investigation into the case of assault committed by some irresponsible young gang to one of his soldiers in Kulau on January 1st.

Government signed an agreement with oil companies from Malaysia to bring Pipeline GSR for Timor-Leste

FORUM-HAKSESUK, domingo, 20 de Dezembro de 2009 - Government signed an agreement with oil companies from Malaysia to bring Pipeline GSR for Timor-Leste

Dili - The Government of Timor-Leste, decided to sign agreement with oil companies of Malaysia for cooperation whose objective is to bring Pipeline Greater Sun Rise (GSR) for Timor-Leste. The visit of former PM on days (December 10-11), bringing Malayu entrepreneurs to invest in Timor-Leste, signed the MOU's between the Government of Timor-Leste and Malayu companies such as: Company Kencana HL SDN ( KHL), IBEX Company Cooperation and Janar Amalgamated Resources SDN BHD.

In high-level contacts between the Government of Timor-Leste and representatives of companies Petrokimia and Petronas of Malaysia, which had access to the Journal, "The Government is looking for a company alternative to exchange with Woodside to explore the possibility to bring the Pipeline GSR for Timor-Leste. "The Malaysia has demonstrated its commitment to assist Timor-Leste, in technical-scientific stand, to bring the Pipeline GSR for Timor-Leste .

Companies such as Petronas and Petrokimia will support Timor-Leste in all aspects, besides the technical and scientific vector , are also ready to create infrastructure for oil rigs, training human resources in the oil and natural gas. And to help create the company's Oil and Gas Timor-Leste. Timor-Leste also approached the company KOGAS of South Korea, the largest purchaser of gas in the world, which is also ready to support the Government Timor-Leste, in the technical-scientific stay in the areas of Oil and Gas have claimed will help Timor-Leste to build the LNG in Timor-Leste.

Australia, through Woodside, wants to Pipeline GSR for Australia

The Australian Government, through the company Woodside has developed their utmost to bring the Pipeline GSR for your country, mainly to northern Australia. By Woodside has sought to weaken the State of Timor-Leste in the negotiations. Official sources said this, Woodside, is a company that is increasing its budget to develop extra activities such as support groups in Timorese society to weaken the Timorese state, favoring the interests of Australia and Woodside. As a last resort, you can try to feed the political and military crisis to create instability in Timor-Leste!

Sources: Suara Timor Lorasa (STL, 14/12.pag.1 and 14)!

Dr.Ramos-Horta welcomes H.E. the SRSG to Timor-Leste, Mme. Ameerah Haq

Office of the President of the Republic Press Release - The Timorese Head of State, Dr. Jose Ramos-Horta welcomed today in his office, at the Presidential Palace Nicolau Lobato, in Díli the new UN SRSG Mme. Ameerah Haq, for the first official meeting that lasted about one hour.

H.E. the Special Representative to Timor-Leste of the UN Secretary-Geral, Ban Ki-moon, replaces in these high functions Dr. Atul Khare, who finished his mandate in the end of 2009.

“Welcome, we are very pleased to work with you”, said in the occasion the Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, before a group of journalist.

“I am most delighted to be in Timor-Leste. My meeting with H.E. the President was very constructive. It is my personal honor, because Dr. Ramos-Horta, a Peace Prize Laureate, has a tremendous leadership”, stated Mme.Haq after the meeting, speaking to the journalists.

The SRSG added that she was informed about “the vision and plans – of the Timorese President of the Republic – for the development and the future of Timor-Leste”.

“I’m looking forward to precede the work of my predecessor”, Dr. Atul Khare, said Mme. Haq.

She is considered to bring to the Mission extensive management and operational experience, particularly at the senior level.

Haq most recently served as Deputy Special Representative of Mr. Ban Ki-moon for Sudan, as well as the UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator for Sudan (2007-2009).

Before that, she served as Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Afghanistan, as well as the UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator for Afghanistan (2004-2007).

Mme. Ameerah Haq's broad management experience in supporting complex mission deployment activities will greatly contribute to her new role at UNMIT, according to a press release.

She was formerly the Deputy Assistant Administrator and Deputy Director of the Bureau for Crisis Prevention and Recovery at United Nations Development Program (UNDP) Headquarters in New York.

The new SRSG to Timor-Leste served as the United Nations Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in Malaysia from 1994 to 1997 and in the same capacity in Laos from 1991 to 1994.

Mme. Haq worked in the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific at UNDP Headquarters in various capacities from 1980-1990, which included responsibilities for aid coordination mechanisms and as Desk Officer for Thailand, Myanmar and Bhutan.

She also had an assignment with the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) from 1985 to 1987.

She started her career in 1976 as a Junior Professional Officer in Jakarta, Indonesia and was transferred to Afghanistan as Assistant Resident Representative in 1978.

Haq obtained master's degrees in community organization and planning, and in business administration from Columbia University and New York University respectively. She completed a Bachelor of Arts at Western College in Oxford, Ohio.

PPR - Dili, 06.JAN-10



Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste

Presidency of the Republic
Dr. José H. Meirelles
Int. Relations/Media Senior Adviser
Nicolau Lobato Palace
Aitarak-Lara, Díli, Timor-Leste
PBX : +670-333-9999/ext. 242 Mobile: +670-751-6413

Timor-Leste Legal News 25 November 2010

A young man seriously wounded as shot by police officer Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 25 November 2009 An 18-year-old young man is sustained serious injury to his arm, as he was shot by an off duty police officer in party last Saturday (21/11) in Vila Verde of Dili.

It necessary to reduce numbers of advisors for president office: PD MP Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 25 November 2009 MP Vital dos Santos from the Democratic Party (PD) said it was necessary to reduce numbers of the advisors for the office of president, due to some of the advisors did not respond to the state’s needs.

China to hold test to the two ships for F-FDTL Timor Post 25 November 2009 State Secretary for Defense, Julio Tomas Pinto said China Company which was responsible for constructing two ships for the Timorese Defense Force (F-FDTL) would hold a test to these ships before coming to the country.

Belo refuses to give comments in trial process Timor Post 25 November 2009 Jose Belo a Journalist of Tempo Semanal who is also correspondent for ABC [Australian Broadcasting Corporation] has refused to give responses during the trial process in the court, because of the journalism ethic codes reason.

SEPI-SES holds workshop about prevention of gender violence Timor Post 25 November 2009 Acting State Secretary for Promotion and Gender Equality (SEPI), Alfredo Pires and State Secretary for Security (SES), Francisco Guterres have officially opened a workshop about seven international conventions ratified by the Timorese Government.

Monsignor Nascimento: Aderito Soares is capable to lead Anti-Corruption Commission Timor Post 25 November 2009 Bishop for Baucau Diocese, Monsignor Basilio do Nascimento said one of the three nominees were credible to take up the post of the proposed anti-corruption commission’s commissary.

Timor-Leste Legal News 19 November 2010

LABEH urges Inspectorate General to investigate corruption cases Timor Newsline 19 A local NGO known as LABEH Director, Christopher Henry Samson has urged the Inspectorate General to launch a profound investigation into three suspicions of corruption case that have been submitted to it.

State budget for 2010 reflects Government’s compromises: Gusmao Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 19 November 2009Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao said the general state budget for 2010 reflected the Parliamentary Majority Alliance (AMP) Government’s compromises about creating peace and development in the country.

Political parties should be realistic in analyzing state budget: Youth president Radio Televisaun Timor Leste 19 November 2009 President of the Timorese National Youth Council, Levogildo Hornai said the political parties and community members should be realistic in analyzing the country’s state budget execution for 2009.

Govt puts forward US $ 8 million to set up a bank Timor Post 19 November 2009 The Government has put forward US 8 million for setting up a national bank and US $ 1 million to be allocated for establishing anti-corruption commission in the country’s state budget for 2010.

Committee C calls Govt to execute well 2010’s general state budget Diario Nacional 19 The Parliamentary Committee C for finance and anti-corruption has called for the Government to execute well and transparently spend the 2010 general state budget.

Lobato: “State would use Police to force illegal occupants out of the seashore” Diario Nacional 19 November 2009 Justice Minister Lucia Lobato said the Government would use police to force those people who illegally occupying seashore out of that place if they refused to move and keep living there.