UNMIT Daily Media Review 21 January 2008
Alfredo Reinado: UNMIT has no right to interfere in TL's internal problems - Alfredo Reinado said that the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) has no right to intervene in the internal problems of Timor-Leste as the nation has its own laws and appropriate models to solve problems. "UNMIT has no right to condemn me as a Timorese because Timor-Leste is a democratic nation which has its own law to implement, it is not made by internationals," said Alfredo on Thursday (17/1) in Suai in responding to an UNMIT statement that suggests that Alfredo should submit himself to the justice. (STL) Reinado was responding to the comments made by UNMIT, which asked that he submit himself to the justice.
Basic Training for F-FDTL to NATO's standards - The Department of Defence (DD) has decided that the basic training for the F-FDTL will follow NATO's standards. State Secretary for Defence Julio Thomas Pinto said that in conducting the basic training, the DD will look at the countries belonging to NATO. "We will use NATO's standards as Timor-Leste is familiar with the standards used by Portuguese forces,†said Mr. Pinto on Saturday (19/1) in his office in Dili. (STL)
Bishop Ricardo: the Church will not get involved in the Task Force - Bishop Ricardo from the Diocese of Dili said that the Church will not be involved with the government Task Force to solve Alfredo's problem as it is considered a political problem. (STL)
Salsinha: Ramos-Horta pledges a screening of the petitioners - The Spokesperson of the petitioners Gastao Salsinha stated that President of the Republic Jose Ramos-Horta has agreed with the Petitioner's proposal to have a screening for the petitioners. "… the decision is the President's as thhe Supreme Commander of the F-FDTL; if he accepts that we are to have a screening as military people then we will take it a sign that we are still regarded as military," said Salsinha on Thursday (17/1) in Suai. (STL)
DSRSG Finn Reske-Nielsen: hard work is needed if the IDPs are to go home - The Deputy Special Representative of Secretary-General (DSRSG) of United Nations in Timor-Leste Finn Reske-Nielsen said that returning the IDPs to their homes or community will be very difficult. DSRSG Finn said that it would require a long period of time. "On the humanitarian aspect, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) will give strong support to the government plan to bring the IDPs back home," said DSRSG Finn on Thursday (17/1) in Obrigado Barracks, Dili. DSRSG Finn also said that in 2008, the priority will also give to support the government's national recovery plan. (DN)
IDPs returning homes: security to be provided 24/7 - The Commander of the National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL) of Dili District, Pedro Belo, said that PNTL Dili district will provide 24 security when the IDPs return home. Commander Belo said that the most affected areas in Dili will be prioritized and there will be no tolerance to criminals and those who hide them. (DN)
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REPÚBLICA DEMOCRÁTICA DE TIMOR-LESTE
GABINETE DO PRIMEIRO-MINISTRO Dili, 18 January, 2008 Media Release
OPPOSITION PROPAGANDA CAMPAIGN ENDAGERS ACCURATE REPORTING IN EAST TIMOR
This week reached an all time low in East Timor when a smear campaign, launched by the opposition against the AMP Government escalated, resulted in mass reporting of misinformation and propaganda to the public by the domestic media.
On January 14, Fernanda Borges, President of Unity Party and Elisário Ferreira, member of the Fretilin party, alleged in parliament, and then later through the domestic media in print, radio and television, that on Friday January 11, 2008, three people died and twelve injured in a “stampede” in line for a $100.00 government Small Business subsidy outside the offices of the Ministry of Social Solidarity. The media reported the incidents as fact, although all reports were fraudulent.
Gusmão addressed the media this week in a press conference with a clear message to report factual information to the public or risk becoming a party to creating further instability.
He reaffirmed his views today, “All democracies are based upon the foundations of a national free and fair media, but the media is charged with the responsibility to report fact with credible evidence rather than hear say, innuendo and propaganda that is liable and defamatory. If we as a nation are embarking on an era of reform, the media must uphold the global standards of reporting with accurate facts and credible sources.
‘Reporting the tragic deaths of citizens when no such events happened is beyond the acceptable standard of journalism. Our nation deserves to receive credible reports void of propaganda. I challenge the media to raise the standard and follow a code of ethics which is inherent in the profession and not to be pawns in rabid politicking.”
ENDS
For further information contact: Office of the Prime Minister Tel: +670 332 2026
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UNMIT Daily Media Review 18 January 2008
RTL news coverage - Reinado asks the Supreme Commander to set up a new commission to replace the Task Force team: Fugitive rebel leader Alfredo Reinado Alves has asked President Jose Ramos Horta,
who is also the Timorese Defense Force Supreme Commander, to set up a new commission to replace the Task Force set up by the Government. Reinado and the petitioners' spokesperson, Gastao Salsinha, made the request after they were not able to meet with President Jose Ramos Horta in Suai yesterday. Reinado and Salsinha said the Task Force set up by the Government is not able to resolve their problems, because they work for political interests. They said only the Supreme Commander is able to resolve their problems, not the Government. Reinado said that if the state considers them civilians, they will form a new military force in this country.
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Ramos-Horta: "The Deadline for solving Alfredo and the petitioners' case is May" - President (PR) José Ramos-Horta said that May 2008 is the deadline for solving Alfredo and the petitioners' problems. "It is not definitive yet, but all parties should be prepared to work on this from now until May," said PR Ramos-Horta on Thursday (17/1). (DN)
Finn Reske-Nielsen: "UN congratulates PNTL for arresting 73 people" - Deputy Special Representative of Secretary-General (DSRSG) in Timor-Leste Finn Reske-Nielsen congratulated the police who captured 73 people alleged to be involved in prostitution and drugs in five bars in Dili on Tuesday (15/1) night. DSRSG Finn explained that the arrests were made because the alleged activities have a negative effect upon the country. (DN)
Arsenio: "the President shouldn't try to gag Alfredo" - Vice President of Fretilin and Member of NP Arsenio Bano said that Fretilin are pressuring PR Ramos-Horta to release publicly his discussion with Alfredo Reinado so that the public are informed, otherwise he is gagging Reinado and compromising the truth. "There should be the truth. If Alfredo said that Xanana is the author of 2006 crisis, let Alfredo tell the truth and Xanana should then justify himself," said Mr. Bano on Thursday (17/1) in the NP in Dili. "The people of Timor-Leste and the NP should know what is discussed by Pr Ramos-Horta and Alfredo. Whether the PR is going to give amnesty, send Alfredo back to the F-FDTL or submit him to justice, people should know about it. Or is it just a trap?" added Mr. Bano. (DN)
ICG: government needs to reform F-FDTL and PNTL - The government of Timor-Leste and the UN Mission in Timor-Leste should revitalize efforts to reform the F-FDTL and PNTL in order to decrease civil conflict in the country. Based on the new report of the International Crisis Group (ICG), it seems that to move the country forward the security institutions' reformation is key. ICG also reported that until now there is no clear authority line between defence forces and the police and there is no national consensus about the type of defence force needed and what its job should be. ICG said that the government has to conduct an immediate analysis of comprehensive security reform as recommended by the Security Council of the United Nations. (TP)
Ramos-Horta: Indonesia to close embassy if TL establishes an international tribunal - PR Ramos-Horta is arguing strongly against the recommendation of organizations which are asking the state to establish an international tribunal in Timor-Leste to judge the cases of 1999. "I have not accepted your recommendation about establishing an international tribunal ever since I was Minister of Foreign Affairs. Even though you step over me until I die, I will never accept it," said PR Ramos-Horta on Thursday (17/1) when meeting with Forum of NGOs in Caicoli, Dili. PR Ramos-Horta said that it is impossible to establish the international tribunal in Timor-Leste as there is no support from the Security Council. (TP)
"Mandate doesn't work; Alfredo doesn't go to the court - The lawyer for Alfredo Reinado's case, Benevides Barros, said that PR Ramos-Horta has already told all relevant national and international institutions to not execute the arrest warrant given by the judge. Mr. Barros also said that Alfredo Reinado will not appear in court on January 24 this year as the arrest warrant on him is still valid. Fretilin is calling on Alfredo to take the accusation to the court. "Fretilin supports Alfredo is his legal stand, but does not support Alfredo and the petitioners' actions. Our support is that if Alfredo has all the evidence, then come down. It is time to go through the legal process and the Constitution," said Jose Manuel, a member of Fretilin. While the President of the Court of Appeal Claudio Ximenes said that if there is a strong reason then the arrest warrant will be withdrawn, if not then all should follow the decision made by the judge. (TP and STL)
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UNMIT Weekly United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste Issue No 25 — 18 January 2008 - Featured stories this week:
UN Police Commissioner, Staff Discuss UNPol Mandate with Civil Society Representatives
CEDAW Training Follows 1st Report on Women’s Rights
Solar Energy Illuminates Buildings, Powers Water Pumps
Gender Issues in Peacekeeping Focus of New York Meeting
UNMIT, Government Brief Donors, Diplomats on Humanitarian Issues, National Recovery Strategy
http://www.unmit.org/unmisetwebsite.nsf/192bda2f4f2cbc284925739500311c4c/$FILE/25.weekly.english.180108.pdf
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From Timor-Leste: Citizens Finally Able to Read Laws in Own Language Timor Leste By Katherine S. Hunter
Katherine S. Hunter was The Asia Foundation’s Country Representative in Timor-Leste until January 2008 and is the Coordinator for the Luce Scholars Program.
The newly independent nation of Timor-Leste (formerly East Timor) faces daunting challenges in implementing the rule of law. Until recently, most efforts have focused on the important “hardware” of the justice system: training judges and prosecutors, establishing courts, and adopting laws. With insights gained from five years of independence and the security crisis of 2006 and 2007, officials now realize that strengthening the rule of law also requires critical attention to the “software” side, including broad and regular public access to legal information resources ranging from increased availability of the text of new laws, materials that explain and highlight key provisions of the laws, and reference materials in languages commonly understood by a multi-lingual citizenry. Information needs in the justice sector are particularly acute because laws are written primarily in Portuguese, which is understood by less than 10% of the population. This means that almost no one has access to the basic Civil Procedures Code.
But now, to meet the needs of both justice sector actors and ordinary citizens, these documents are finally going to be published in Tetun, the language spoken by more than 90% of the population. For the Court of Appeal, The Asia Foundation is helping publish a bilingual reference volume in both Tetun and Portuguese, the country’s two official languages. Although all new laws and regulations are printed in the national gazette, the Jornal da Republica, it is difficult to obtain and is beyond most people’s budgets. As a result, with the publication of this essential legal reference tool, judges, prosecutors, law students, and private lawyers will now have ready access to the new Civil Procedures Code.
Another milestone is publication of the new book by Judge Duarte Tilman Soares, who was formally installed as one of the country’s first permanent judges in June 2007. Judge Soares has written the country’s first Tetun-language explanation of court responsibilities under the new Penal Procedures Code. In addition to descriptions of key provisions of the newly adopted Code, the book contains definitions and explanations for procedures that differ from the Indonesian penal procedures code previously used. The book’s forward is written by Chief Justice Claudio Ximenes, the country’s most senior judge, and will be distributed widely to judges, prosecutors, public defenders, and private lawyers, as well as to the Legal Training Center and university law faculties.
The Office of Prosecutor General recently completed three new brochures in the Tetun language designed to explain key provisions of the new Penal Procedures Code relating to prosecutorial services to citizens and officials alike. The brochures fill a critical gap in legal information. The security crisis of 2006-2007 illustrated major gaps in understanding the legal process and the prosecutor’s functions among all sectors. The first brochure provides an overview of responsibilities and functions of the Office of Prosecutor General, the second explains key responsibilities under the Penal Procedures Code, and the third focuses on the 72-hour detention hearing — one of the least understood procedures among citizens. The brochures will be distributed widely to judges, prosecutors, and public defenders, as well as to private lawyers, police, village councils, government officials, and citizens.
These publications are made possible by the support of USAID for The Asia Foundation’s Access to Justice program.
http://asiafoundation.org/in-asia/2008/01/16/from-timor-leste-citizens-finally-able-to-read-laws-in-own-language/
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UNMIT Daily Media Review 17 January 2008
TVTL news coverage
F-DTL to withdraw from the government offices: The Timorese Defense Force (F-FDTL) Commander, Brigadier General Taur Matan Ruak, said that his soldiers who were deployed to secure Government buildings in the capital of Dili will soon be withdrawn, because the situation in the capital has returned to normal. The Commander said F-FDTL soldiers deployed in the country's east, in areas such as Lospalos and Uatolari, have been withdrawn and the task of providing security has been handed over to the national police. Matan Ruak made the comments yesterday after meeting with President Jose Ramos Horta at the Presidential Palacio das Cinzas. Ruak said that during the meeting, they discussed Reinado, the petitioners and IDPs'.
PNTL 'Lafaek Operation' arrests 73 people in 5 bars in Dili: The National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL) arrested 73 people for alleged prostitution and drug-related offences from five bars on Tuesday night (15/1) in Dili. The PNTL Task Force Commander Pedro Belo said that the 'Lafaek Operation' resulted in 73 arrests, including 20 Timorese who were suspected of being involved in drug use and prostituton.
RTL news coverage
Fretilin's youth pressure the Court of Appeal to investigate the author of the 2006 crisis: Fretilin's youth are pressuring the Court of Appeal to investigate immediately the author of 2006 crisis that led to the deaths of many people and the destruction of hundreds of houses. The Spokesperson of the youth, Paulino Soares, declared that the video is the corroborating evidence that Xanana Gusmão was the author of the 2006 crisis. "Xanana gave a speech and divided the country into east and west, which resulted in a crisis with many victims," declared Paulo on Wednesday (16/1) in a press conference in Quintal Boot, Dili.
* * *
General prosecutor doesn't get involved in the case of Alfredo's video - The General Prosecutor Longuinhos Monteiro said that he has received a letter from the President of Fretilin Francisco Guterres Lu-Olo about Alfredo's CD which accused Prime Minister (PM) Xanana Gusmão of being the author of the 2006 crisis. Mr. Monteiro said that the Public Ministry will not get involved in this case as it is a political issue. (TP and DN)
ISF expands its role in TL - The International Security Forces (ISF) in Timor-Leste recently expanded their role to help people in various areas in the country. The ISF has of late not only been guaranteeing security and stability, but it has also been providing humanitarian and engineering assistance, among other things, to help address people's needs in the country. "Our role has expanded to include giving humanitarian assistance to the people," said Commander of the ISF John Hutchison. (TP)
'Lafaek Operation' results in the arrest of 73 people - The PNTL 'Lafaek Operation' resulted in the arrest of 73 people in 5 bars in Dili who were suspected of being involved in drug use and prostitution in 5 bars on Tuesday night (15/1) in Dili. PNTL Dili District Commander Pedro Belo said that the intention of the 'Lafaek Operation' was to arrest 73 people, including 20 Timorese who are allegedly involved in prostitution and drugs. (DN, RTL, and TVTL)
Guterres: IDPs returning home as Alfredo and the petitioners' case will be solved - The representative of the IDPs from Motael Camp, Francisco Guterres, said that the government's plan to help the IDPs to return home is good. Mr. Guterres said since the problem of Alfredo and the petitioners will be solved, the IDPs will return home since the country is no longer in a military or political crisis. (DN)
Fretilin's youth: pressuring an investigation into the author of the 2006 crisis - Fretilin's youth are pressuring the Court of Appeal to investigate immediately the author of 2006 crisis that led to the deaths of many people and the destruction of hundreds of houses. The Spokesperson of the youth, Paulino Soares, declared that the speech of President Xanana Gusmão on TVTL on 23 of March 2006 caused conflicts and violence in Dili. Many people, including military men, were victims of that speech. "For this reason we need the Court of Appeal to investigate the video where Alfredo accuses Xanana of being the author of the 2006 crisis. We also ask the President to take action on this constitutionally. Mari Alkatiri resigned because of a video played in Australia. So we say that Alfredo's video could be the evidence and we ask PM Xanana Gusmão to resign and dissolve the government," declared Paulo on Wednesday (16/1) in a press conference in Quintal Boot, Dili. (DN, TVTL and RTL)
Ramos-Horta: asking Taur Matan Ruak to help solve Alfredo's case - President (PR) José Ramos-Horta is asking F-FDTL Commander Brigadier Taur Matan Ruak to cooperate with state institutions and help solve the problems of Alfredo, the petitioners and IDPs. President Jose Ramos Horta made the statement after having a weekly meeting with Brigadier General Taur Matan Ruak on Wednesday (16/1) in Palacio da Cinzas, Dili. (STL)
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Foreigners arrested in E Timor prostitution swoop ABC News Australia 17 January 2008 - Eighty-seven foreign nationals have been arrested for prostitution and drug offences in East Timor. The arrests were part of a joint crackdown between the nation's police force and officers from the United Nations. East Timor police say the 87 foreigners were arrested at a number of bars. Most of them were women involved in prostitution and illegal drugs and are from from Indonesia, Malaysia, China and Thailand. The latest arrests follow a raid on two bars earlier this year that netted 28 foreign nationals over suspected human trafficking. A United States State Department report last year identified East Timor as a destination country for women trafficked from China, Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand. http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/01/17/2140236.htm?section=justin
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UNMIT Daily Media Review 16 January 2008
TVTL news coverage
The ISF will not arrest Alfredo Reinado: The Commander of the International Stabilization Forces (ISF), Brigadier General, John Hutcheson, said they will not carry out the arrest warrant issued by the court to capture rebel leader, Alfredo Reinado Alves and his followers. The commander said they will not implement the arrest warrant issued by the court because they do not want intervene in the internal problems of the country. Hutcheson made the comments yesterday during a press conference held at the ISF base in Caicoli, Dili.
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ISF sends soldiers to Suai; not a show of force - The Commander of the International Security Forces (ISF) in Timor-Leste - John Hutchison - said that he has sent soldiers to Suai, Covalima district, to provide security; in western and eastern parts of the country. Brigadier Hutchison said that the people in Suai had been informed prior to the deployment and added that the ISF is trying to contribute to development in the communities. Brigadier Hutchison also said that since the security situation of the country as a whole has been calm, it is now important to encourage peace in the communities. (STL)
Timor-Leste still needs the UN Mission - The President of the Millenium Democratic Party and the Spokesperson of the Progressive Democratic League, Hermenegildo "Kupa", said that the presence of the United Nations (UN) is still needed even though its mandate will end in February 2008. "I think this nation still needs the UN mission, UNMIT, to continue its mission in Timor-Leste. Their presence is needed in the case of Alfredo and the petitioners. We would not be able to solve the problem without their presence in the country if the dialogue were to end in deadlock. We do need a UN presence, but we also need to know what the mission's goals are, it shouldn't just be extended," said Mr. 'Kupa' on Tuesday (15/1) in Hotel Timor, Dili. (STL)
Borges: Horta-Alfredo dialogue is constitutional - The Member of the National Parliament from the National Unity Party (PUN) Fernanda Borges said that the position of President (PR) José Ramos-Horta to build dialogue with Alfredo Reinado and his groups is constitutional. "Based on the constitution, the PR is obliged to stabilize the situation of the country. Since Alfredo's case is about national stability, the PR has the right to intervene," said Ms. Borges on Tuesday (15/1) in the NP, Dili. (STL)
AMP: asks Alfredo to bring Xanana's case to court - A Member of the NP from the Alliance asked Alfredo Reinado to go to court and present his evidence that former President Xanana Gusmão is author of the 2006 crisis. MP Cecilio Caminha from CNRT said that as a representative of the people, he is asking Alfredo to provide evidence to back up accusations made against Xanana Gusmao in his video and elsewhere. "100% I am provoking Alfredo. I am provoking him to come to court to present the evidence that he has. Better to declare it court than just shout and confuse people. I am not standing up for Xanana, but I don't want CNRT's name spoiled," said Mr. Caminha in the NP, Dili. (TP)
Commander Hutchison: "Only the Government can explain the Court decision on Alfredo" - The Commander of the International Security Forces (ISF) in Timor-Leste, John Hutchison said that the ISF mission in Timor-Leste will not involve itself in all the problems being faced by the country, but will follow the correct processes to guarantee the security and stability of Timor-Leste. Commander Hutchison also said that ISF mission should do its job as requested by the government of Timor-Leste, and that it has a commitment to maintaining stability in the country. (DN)
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If Instability Emerges in Timor-Leste, Xanana: "We will arrest the press." - Timor Post, Dili, Wednesday 16 January 2006. Dili – Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão threatened that his side would arrest members of the press (media) if when instability emerged in the nation. Because of this he asked the media to undertake its work with more responsibility for the situation. "You have to exercise more responsibility towards the environment of stability or instability. We close our eyes when in the case of small and big things you go and interview Alfredo. Perhaps because of these things instability may emerge in the country, because of you, we will arrest you," he said to journalists on Tuesday (15/1) at the Ministry for Social Solidarity, Kaikoli, Dili. PM Xanana said the press should not hide the failings of government, but they should confirm information before publishing. Xanana said 2008 is the year of reform, and because of this there must also be reform in the professionalism of the media. "The TV, Radio report that people have died, and you just report it without going and asking about it. If we are talking about reforming society, we must also talk about reforming you," said Xanana.
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UNMIT Daily Media Review 15 January 2008
TVTL news coverage
Horta is confident that the Task Force can resolve the Reinado issue: Following the recent withdrawal of the National Movement for Peace and Justice (MUNJ) from the Task Force team set up by the Government, President Jose Ramos Horta still firmly believes in the Task Force's ability to resolve Alfredo Reinado and the petitioners' problems. Horta said he will soon contact the Catholic Church and ask them to appoint a church representative to be a mediator in the dialogue. Horta also said Reinado and the petitioners are victims of the political crises of 2006 and he called on them to continue holding dialogue with the Government.
RTL news coverage
More than a hundred people come to the office of the president to ask for assistance under the President's Poverty Reduction Programme: More than a hundred people came to the office of the president on Monday (14/1) to ask for assistance. Some of them were protesting against the registration process, claiming nepotism and unfairness. "They are looking for their families and then registering them," said Lucia Rosa, one of the protesters. She said that they should identify the exact number of poor people first before giving them assistance.
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UNMIT: asks PR Horta to conduct dialogue with Reinado as soon as possible - The Special Representative of Secretary-General (SRSG) for Timor Leste and the Head of United Nations Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT), Atul Khare, asked President (PR) José Ramos-Horta, who just met Alfredo Reinado in Maubisse, to bring about dialogue as soon as possible. "I used to meet PR Horta weekly. We would speak about security in the country and about how to solve the problems of the petitioners and Alfredo's group," said SRSG Khare on Monday (14/1) in the Palacio das Cinzas Caicoli, Dili. Today MUNJ - who withdrew from the Task Force of the Government – went to Suai before PR Horta to have a meeting with Alfredo on Wednesday (16/1). (STL)
Alkatiri: asks Xanana to step down - East Timor's former Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri has called on current Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao to resign, amid claims he orchestrated the deadly unrest that erupted in 2006. Alkatiri resigned as prime minister in June that year after a request from then President Gusmao, based on allegations that Alkatiri and several of his ministers gave instructions to arm civilian militia during the crisis. His government had earlier sacked more than a third of the country's defence force, sparking factional violence that left 37 people dead and drove 100,000 from their homes. Many of the sacked soldiers joined the rebellious former military police chief Alfredo Reinado, who last week alleged Gusmao was the "mastermind" who had fomented the unrest. "I think that it is time for Xanana to resign from his post because he has established a precedent in 2006 based on allegations without fact," Alkatiri said on Sunday. Alkatiri said the people of East Timor were waiting to find out the truth behind the crisis. Gusmao should resign and submit to justice, he said. "Nobody in this country is untouchable," Alkatiri said. He said a task force set up to investigate the 2006 crisis was a sham and would never return an adverse finding against Gusmao. President Jose Ramos-Horta should also be pushing for Gusmao's resignation, Alkatiri said. "Ramos-Horta, as foreign minister, was very supportive of Xanana to force me to resign. Now he is president of the republic and he has to do the same." Local media last week reported that Gusmao was refusing to respond to Reinado's claims, saying he did not want to engage in a "war of words". (TP)
Alfredo: Ramos-Horta should explain to the people - Former Commander of the Military Police Alfredo Reinado asked PR Ramos-Horta to disseminate information about their informal dialogue in Maubisse on Sunday (13/1) to people. Reinado said that he could not release any details of the meeting because it was agreed that only PR Ramos-Horta should do so. Mr. Benevides Barros, Alfredo's lawyer, said that he will not comment until PR Ramos-Horta makes his statement about the meeting. (TP)
UN asks Alfredo to submit himself to justice - The Special Representative of Secretary-General (SRSG) for Timor-Leste, Atul Khare, said that the UN asks Alfredo to submit himself to justice. SRSG Atul Khare said that the position of UN on Alfredo's case is that he should face justice, and so the UN supports all the efforts of the government to solve the problem. "I give my support to the task force and their efforts to bring Alfredo to submit himself to justice. Our (UN) position is clear - everyone should submit themselves to justice, including Alfredo Reinado," said SRSG Atul Khare on Friday (11/1) in the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) Headquarters at Caicoli, Dili. (DN)
UN Concerned about 4000 pending cases in the court - The Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) for Timor-Leste, Atul Khare, said that the UN Mission in Timor-Leste is concerned by the fact that there are more than 4000 pending cases in courts across the country. SRSG Khare said that the cases should be effectively reviewed in a short time to convince people that the justice system works and is acting in their best interests. SRSG Khare also said that the UN Mission in Timor-Leste is committed to continue working in Timor-Leste based on the provisions of its mandate. (DN)
Alfredo accuses Xanana. Alkatiri: "Xanana should face trial" - "I never found out whether Xanana was behind or in front of the crisis. I always used to say that there was a great conspiracy. Now they are not getting along, and Alfredo expresses all the truth. No one should believe that in this country some may face trial while others don't. I submitted myself to justice because of a false accusation from Railos. Now Xanana should be encouraged to do the same thing in light of Alfredo's accusation, you can never say that it is irrelevant," said Mari Alkatiri, the Secretary General of Fretilin on Saturday (12/1) in Comoro Airport, Dili. (DN)
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UNMIT Daily Media Review 14 January 2008
Radio Timor Leste News Coverage
The government and the National Parliament (NP) reducing the pension for veterans and former combatants is an insult: Veteran Biloi Mali claimed that it is a big insult for the government and NP to reduce the pension for veterans and former combatants.
Biloi Mali said that the living conditions for veterans and former combatants are not as good as the living conditions of those with a means of earning a living.
Biloi Mali also said now is the time for veterans and former combatants to claim their rights.
Immigration officials to keep out those who are a threat to the nation: The State Secretary for Security Francisco Guterres said that the Department of Immigration plays an important role in protecting the nation by identifying those who are a threat to the nation.
The State Secretary for Security also said that immigration officials should identify immigrants who have tourist visas but are working in Timor-Leste and should take administrative action against them.
Head of UN Mission, Atul Khare, supports the Task Force of the government as a peaceful way to solve Alfredo's problem: The Special Representative of Secretary-General (SRSG) for Timor-Leste, Atul Khare, said that UN welcomes the work of the Task Force in bringing about dialogue to enable Alfredo to submit himself to justice.
SRSG Atul Khare said it is important that justice and the rule of law are adhered to help security and development in the country. The UN position on Alfredo's case is that Alfredo should be brought to justice and the UN supports the efforts of the government to solve the problem.
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Ramos-Horta: F-FDTL and PNTL to act according to constitution - President (PR) Jose Ramos-Horta said that the Defence Forces of Timor-Leste (F-FDTL) and the National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL) need to act according to the constitution to guarantee the peace and stability of the country. PR Ramos-Horta said that if the two institutions fall victim once more to the political maneuverings of political leaders, there will be new crisis in the country. PR Ramos-Horta also said the PNTL needs to absorb the lessons of 2006 to improve itself. (TP and DN)
February 2008: GNR to train PNTL in discipline - In February, PNTL will receive training from the Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR) of Portugal to improve its discipline. The State Secretary for Security Francisco Guterres declared that Portugal's GNR is preparing a curriculum for the training. "Discipline training is important, it helps officers to act professionally, and people therefore feel calm and secure when the PNTL is in action," said State Secretary Francisco Guterres on Friday (11/1) in the Headquarters of the Unidade de Intervenção Rápida (UIR), Dili, at the ceremony of provisional certification to 29 members of the UIR who had taken their first phase of the training. (TP)
UN supports Task Force: Alfredo should submit himself to justice - The Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) for Timor-Leste, Atul Khare, said that UN supports the work of the task force to bring about a dialogue so that Alfredo can submit himself to the justice. SRSG Atul Khare said that the position of UN on Alfredo's case is that he should face justice, and so the UN welcomes the efforts of the government to solve the problem. "I support the task force and its efforts to ensure that Alfredo submit himself to justice. Our (UN) position is clear: everyone should face justice, including Alfredo Reinado," said SRSG Atul Khare on Friday (11/1) in the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT) Headquarters at Caicoli, Dili. (TP and STL)
UNPol to assist PNTL in operation - United Nations Police (UNPol) in Timor-Leste will accompany the PNTL, in particular the PNTL Task Force, in order to allay concerns about the behaviour of the PNTL in Dili and other districts. UNPol Commissioner Rodolfo Tor said that a key part of UNPol's mission is to capacity-build PNTL members so that they are professional. Commissioner Tor also said that UNPol can only handover all police stations to the PNTL once assessments have been made, certain criteria have been met, and the PNTL are logistically equipped to handle such a transfer. "All these things should be considered before UNPol hands over the police station to the PNTL. The decision is not made by UNPol alone; all the stakeholders make the decision," said Commissioner Tor on Friday (11/1) on Friday (11/1) in UNMIT Headquarters at Caicoli, Dili. (TP)
Horta-Xanana glad: Fretilin wants to support the state - PR Ramos-Horta said that he and Prime Minister (PM) Xanana Gusmao are happy that Fretilin wants to support efforts to solve the issues of IDPs, Reinado and the petitioners. PR Ramos-Horta said that he met the President of Fretilin, Francisco Guterres Lu-Olo, and that Fretilin wants to help the state and current government to solve the problems of the IDPs, the petitioners and Alfredo Reinado. (DN)
Bishop Basilio: "The state and Alfredo should be in agreement" - Bishop Basilio do Nascimento of Baucau Diocese said that the Church is ready to collaborate with the government to solve the case of the petitioners and Alfredo Reinado. "The Church can help to solve it politically, not morally," said Bishop Basilio in Dili when asked about the Church's point of view on Reinado. Bishop Basilio also said that the government, Reinado and the petitioners must all be in agreement. This means that the Task Force of the government should involve other organizations to find a way towards dialogue. "I believe that the petitioners will not cooperate if the government does not adhere to strong principles in its attempt to solve the problem," added the Bishop. (DN)
Alfredo accuses Xanana. Alkatiri: "Xanana should go to court" - "I never wavered from saying that Xanana was behind or in front of the crisis. I used to say previously that this was all a great conspiracy. Now they are not getting along, and Alfredo decides to reveal the truth. It is wrong that some people should go to court and not others. I submitted myself to justice because of the false accusations of Railos. Xanana should do the same now that he has been accused. He cannot say it is not relevant," said Mari Alkatiri, the Secretary-General of Fretilin on Saturday (12/1) at Comoro Airport, Dili. (DN)
Atul Khare: "It's important to change the mentality of the UIR" - SRSG Atul Khare stated in front of PR Ramos-Horta and PM Xanana Gusmao, Minister of Interior Rai Pereira of Portugal, UNPol Commissioner Rodolfo Tor and other members of the government that the Government plans to change the mentality of the UIR are important for its future. "I want the police to do their work based upon law and order, as it determines the whether the public see them as professional, but they must also serve the community with personal integrity," said the SRSG Khare on the ceremony of provisional certification for 29 UIR members on Friday (11/1) in the Headquarter of UIR in Dili. (DN)
7 Indonesian and 2 Chinese citizens deported - The Immigration Department Director, Inspector Carlos Jeremias, said that the Government of Timor-Leste through the Department of Immigration deported seven Indonesian and two Chinese citizens. "From the total number of 33 foreign citizens investigated, in the past two days we have deported seven Indonesian and two Chinese citizens to their own countries…some of them were not deported as they paid a fine," said Mr. Jeremias. The deported citizens were found guilty of working whilst in the country on tourist visas. Those foreign citizens who were voluntarily deported will not be allowed to enter Timor-Leste for another two years. (STL))
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UN chief: UN will help reform East Timor's rival security forces - AP - Friday, December 14 DILI, East Timor - The United Nations will help East Timor reform the police and military forces who were at the heart of deadly gunbattles last year that killed dozens in the fledgling country, U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon said Friday.
Around a third of the army deserted in April 2006 to protest alleged discrimination, triggering several weeks of lawlessness. Gang warfare, gunbattles and widespread arson plagued the capital, sending a fifth of the population on the run.
Relative calm was restored by thousands of foreign troops, and the nation of under a million is still policed by the United Nations, which oversaw peaceful elections earlier this year.
"The United Nations and the international community will fully support" reform of the security force and judiciary, Ki-moon told reporters after meeting with leaders including President Jose Ramos-Horta, a Nobel Peace Prize winner.
The new government of Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao has ambitious plans to rebuild state institutions and revive the economy. But security is an immediate priority with a rebel leader accused of murder during last year's upheaval still evading arrest.
Last month, Alfredo Reinado threatened to turn to violence again if the demands of 600 renegade soldiers were not addressed.
East Timor, also known as Timor Leste, broke from decades of brutal Indonesian rule in 1999. Its transition to democracy has been guided by the United Nations, but it faces chronic poverty, food shortages and gang warfare.
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East Timor Needs UN Peace Troops for `Several' Years (Update1) By Michael Heath Dec. 14 (Bloomberg) -- United Nations troops will need to remain in East Timor for ``several'' more years to prevent a resumption of violence in the Southeast Asian nation, the head of UN peacekeeping said.
Violence erupted in East Timor in March last year when former Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri fired a third of the country's armed forces
for desertion, prompting clashes that killed 37 people. About 155,000 people, or 15 percent of the population, were forced from their homes and international peacekeepers and UN police were deployed to restore order.
The nation still has "major internal problems that need to be resolved,'' Jean Marie Guehenno said before a visit to East Timor by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today. Until it has "a credible security sector that has the trust of the people,'' the nation will continue to face instability, he added.
The former Portuguese colony was occupied by Indonesia for 24 years. The UN has been operating in the nation since East Timorese voted for independence in a 1999 referendum, triggering a campaign of violence by Indonesian-backed militia that left hundreds of civilians dead.
East Timor, also known as Timor Leste, borders part of Indonesia on an island about 500 kilometers (310 miles) north of Australia. It
became independent in May 2002.
"We stand ready to assist our friends in Timor Leste with their continuing security needs,'' Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd told reporters today in the capital, Dili, according to a transcript. ``We look forward to the day when Timor Leste assumes its own responsibility in relation to security matters.''
August Riots
There was more violence in August this year after the Fretilin party was excluded from government for the first time since independence. The Aug. 6 appointment as prime minister of former President Xanana Gusmao triggered riots.
Fretilin, which won the most votes in the June 30 election, said the appointment was unconstitutional. Gusmao, a former guerrilla leader who fought against Indonesian occupation, pledged to unite the nation when he was sworn in.
The violence last year demonstrated the weakness of state bodies, particularly the police force, Guehenno said, according to a statement on the UN's Web site.
The UN must step up police training, he added, after meeting yesterday with representatives of political parties, civil society and women's groups. Guehenno also visited a camp for displaced people.
While holding the rights to an estimated 8 trillion cubic feet of natural gas and 300 million barrels of light oil, East Timor is one of the region's poorest countries. It has a jobless rate of 50 percent and about 42 percent of the population lives below the poverty line.
To contact the reporter on this story: Michael Heath in Sydney at <mailto:mheath1@bloomberg.net>mheath1@bloomberg.net . Last Updated: December 14, 2007 02:35 EST
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UNMIT Daily Media Review 11 January 2008
TVTL news coverage - F-FDTL to withdraw from the government offices: The government is going to withdraw the F-FDTL who are currently providing security to the government offices, and replace them with the PNTL. State Secretary for Security Francisco Guterres said that the government will conduct an assessment before replacing the F-FDTL in February.
140 GNR awarded UN medals: One hundred and forty members of the United Nations Police (UNPol) from the Portuguese Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR) have been awarded UN medals. The medals awarded symbolize the valuable contribution of the GNR to the UN in helping to guarantee security in the country. As part of the ceremony, President (PR) José Ramos-Horta said that the PNTL should look at the GNR as a model of how to provide security. At the event, the Minister of the Interior for Portugal, Rui Pereira, said that Portugal will continue to cooperate with Timor-Leste on the board of the UN Mission.
Minister of Interior Rui Pereira of Portugal visits Timor-Leste: The Portuguese Minister of the Interior Rui Pereira of Portugal is visiting Timor-Leste to familiarize himself with the administration of the country and the Guarda Nacional Republicana's work on the island.
RTL news coverage - Interactive Debate about the 1st trimester operational plan of ISF, UNPol and PNTL: The General Commander of the PNTL, Afonso de Jesus, said that the PNTL should provide information about arrest warrants from the courts in order to avoid rumors that PNTL are misconducting their arrest operations. Deputy UNPol Commissioner Hermanprit Singh said that at the end of January, UNPol will hand over three police stations to the PNTL: Bidau, Mercado Lama and Bairo Pite. During the debate many listeners congratulated the PNTL for the work of the Task Force which has been providing security since Christmas Eve.
The court is obliged to act upon the decision of the President: After it has been published in the Journal of the Republic, the court is obliged to act upon the decision of President when he pardons any condemned prisoners. The president of the Court of Appeal, Claudio Ximenes, said that the pardon of the President should be classified as either a total pardon or a pardon for a certain number of years.
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PM Xanana: MUNJ resignation doesn't affect the dialogue process - Prime Minister (PM) Xanana Gusmão declared that the withdrawal of the Youth Movement of National Unity (MUNJ) has no affect on the dialogue process between the government, Alfredo Reinado and the petitioners. PM Xanana said that it is the right of MUNJ to withdraw from the Task Force, and it will not affect the process that the Government is working on to solve the problems of the nation. "We are a democracy…it willl not affect the process of dialogue," said PM Xanana on Thursday (10/1) after meeting President (PR) José Ramos-Horta in the Palacio das Cinzas in Caicoli, Dili. (TP, DN and STL)
PR Ramos-Horta: no new Task Force will be formed - PR Ramos-Horta said that he will not form a new Task Force to replace the Task Force recently formed by the Alliance Government and led by the State Secretary for Security, Francisco Guterres. As the chief of the state, PR Ramos-Horta professed his support for the Task Force to manage the process of dialogue between the government, Alfredo Reinado and the petitioners. (TP)
140 GNR awarded UN medals - One hundred and forty members of the United Nations Police (UNPol) from the Portuguese Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR) have been awarded UN medals. The medals awarded symbolize the valuable contribution of the GNR to the UN in helping to guarantee security in the country. At the ceremony were PR Ramos-Horta, SRSG Atul Khare, PM Xanana, President of the National Parliament (NP), and other officials of the country. (TP, DN, STL and TVTL)
PM Xanana: doesn't react to the accusations of Alfredo and Fretilin - PM Xanana does not want to respond to the accusations made by Alfredo Reinado and Fretilin claiming that he was the author of the crisis. The Alfredo's accusation was made by video and got strong support from Fretilin. "I can say that I received the CD (compact disk) and then gave it to others. I cannot pass judgement on my self and cannot hide anything. I have no comment on the CD because I know nothing about what they are saying," said PM Xanana on Thursday (10/1) in Palacio das Cinzas in Caicoli, Dili. (TP and DN)
Weekly meeting of government: F-FDTL to withdraw from the government offices - The government is going to discuss a strategic security plan to withdraw F-FDTL members, who now provide security to the government offices, and replace them with the PNTL. The State Secretary for Security, Francisco Guterres, said that the government will carry out an assessment before replacing the F-FDTL in February. (TP and TVTL)
Lasama: Alfredo has no right to give deadlines to the state - The President of the NP Fernando Lasama said that the former Commander of the Military Police Major Alfredo Reinado has no right to give a deadline to the state with regards to solving his and the petitioners' problems. "Alfredo is a citizen and has no right to give a deadline to the state. This state is a sovereign state. It has leaders and is planning to solve the problem," said the President NP on Thursday (10/1) in Caicoli, Dili. (STL and DN)
PR Ramos-Horta: "There's no legal ruling that said Alfredo isn't a Major" - PR and Supreme Commander of the F-FDTL José Ramos-Horta declared that until now there has been no legal ruling to say that Alfredo is no longer a Major, and he is still considered as Major Alfredo Reinado Alves. "The status of Alfredo is only clarified through the process of dialogue. If we intend to turn a military man into a civilian, then it should require a legal process, not just a declaration with no direction," said PR Ramos-Horta on Thursday (10/1) in Caicoli, Dili. (STL)
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