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63 results found

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Aug 2010

Unchanged

FM da Costa downplayed concern over “aggressive” Indonesia army patrols in disputed Natuka area (Oecusse enclave) from May. Timor-Leste National Police commander announced major rotation of senior officers in further step towards full implementation of promotions law. Australia PM Gillard 6 July announced plans to create regional processing centre for refugees in Timor-Leste; President Ramos-Horta expressed cautious support, but parliament 12 July unanimously rejected plan in non-binding resolution.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Jul 2010

Unchanged

Angelita Pires, former partner of late rebel leader Alfredo Reinado, cleared 16 June by appeals court of plotting to assassinate political leaders in Feb 2008; appeals court 14 June reduced some sentences of 24 others jailed in connection with 2008 attack. Govt 11 June took delivery of 2 new Chinese-built patrol boats, doubling size of navy; planned operations include joint police-army patrols.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Jun 2010

Unchanged

Police reportedly clashed with 13 men of illegal armed group 16 May in Ermera district; followed recent reports illegal weapons circulating in area. Police alleged group, which remains at large, led by retired Indonesian soldier.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 May 2010

Unchanged

UN 16 Apr handed over former control of policing in Baucau, 2nd largest city and southern Ainaro district on 12 April. Prosecutor-General 9 Apr appealed against March acquittal of Australian Angelita Pires on charges of conspiracy to kill political leaders in 2008.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Apr 2010

Unchanged

Dili court 3 March convicted 23 rebels of involvement in 2008 attacks on President Ramos-Horta, PM Gusmao; 4 others acquitted. Ramos-Horta 11 March repeated opposition to establishment of international tribunal to examine human rights abuses during Indonesian occupation, 16 March said Indonesia still needs to apologise for “suffering” it caused during occupation. 

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Mar 2010

Unchanged

Country’s first anti-corruption commissioner, lawyer Aderito de Jesus Soares, appointed early month; Soares 6 Feb called for campaign to change public attitudes about corruption. Defence lawyers 15 Feb said new evidence undermined prosecution case against 28 people accused of Feb 2008 attack on President Ramos-Horta and PM Gusmao. UNSG Ban 18 Feb expressed concern about fragile security and justice institutions. UNSC 26 Feb extended UNMIT mandate until Feb 2011 and endorsed gradual drawdown of international police presence.

  • Comment by Cillian Nolan (Crisis Group), “Is Policing in Timor-Leste a Spectator Sport?”, Lowy Interpreter, 24 Feb. 2010.
  • For latest report, see Crisis Group Asia Report N°180, Handing Back Responsibility to Timor-Leste’s Police, 3 Dec. 2009.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Feb 2010

Unchanged

Complaints about police misconduct in wake of late-Dec fatal shooting by police of popular musician at Dili party; results of investigation into shooting not yet announced, preliminary proceedings launched against 1 officer; PM Gusmao ordered police commander to limit operations. President Ramos-Horta late Dec announced pardons or commuted sentences for 50 prisoners, including individuals involved in violence during 2006 political crisis. New UNSR for Timor-Leste Ameerah Haq of Bangladesh arrived in Dili 5 Jan.

Timor-Leste

  |  4 Jan 2010

Unchanged

UNMIT handed over formal control of policing in Viqueque district to Timorese police 5 Dec, 4th district to receive such powers. In 9 Dec speech President Ramos-Horta outlined timetable for UNMIT withdrawal, with nationwide handover by end 2010. Agreement reached for joint Australia-New Zealand International Stabilisation Force to withdraw 250 members of 800-strong force by March. At 5-6 Dec national conference in Dili, opposition FRETILIN party renounced long-planned “peace march” on capital, committed to active participation in parliament. Parliament 14 Dec adopted resolution calling for justice committee to develop measures for implementing recommendations of truth and reconciliation commissions.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Dec 2009

Unchanged

Prosecutors in trial of 28 people accused of Feb 2008 attack on President Ramos-Horta and PM Gusmao 20 Nov refused to release autopsy photos allegedly showing rebel leader Alfredo Reinado executed at close range. Ramos-Horta 12 Nov repeated calls for “mutual reconciliation” with Indonesia. Court of Appeal investigation continued into govt’s Aug release of Maternus Bere, Indonesian-era militia leader indicted for crimes against humanity; Bere repatriated to Indonesia 30 Oct.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Nov 2009

Unchanged

Govt 12 Oct survived censure motion brought by opposition FRETILIN, KOTA parties over Aug decision to release Maternus Bere, former Suai commander of Indonesia-era Laksaur militia indicted by UN Serious Crimes Unit for crimes against humanity. Nationwide village elections 9 Oct passed with few reports of violence but evidence of technical errors; formal results expected Nov. PM Ramos-Horta cited peaceful elections as sign of progress; UNSG Ban 12 Oct said community level tensions continued to threaten security.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Oct 2009

Unchanged

UN, opposition, local judges criticised govt over its Aug decision, after Indonesian pressure, to release Maternus Bere, former Suai commander of Indonesia-era Laksaur militia indicted by UN Serious Crimes Unit for crimes against humanity. Appeals Court president Ximenes 9 Sept said release illegal, courts to investigate. UN OHCHR 15 Sept said normal legal procedures were not followed. Opposition Fretilin party 14 Sept pushed parliamentary censure motion over issue, threatened to force early elections. President Ramos-Horta 16 Sept continued to defend release, said UN “out of touch”. TNI Commander Gen Santoso, during first visit by Indonesian military commander since independence, 3 Sept announced plans for increased military cooperation.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Sep 2009

Unchanged

Timor police early Aug arrested Maternus Bere, former Suai commander of Indonesia-era Laksaur militia indicted by UN Serious Crimes Unit for crimes against humanity, after he entered country from Indonesia; late Aug reportedly handed him over to Indonesian officials. In speech marking 10th anniversary of independence referendum, President Ramos-Horta called on Timorese to forgive Indonesian crimes committed at time of vote, including over 1,000 killed; said no international tribunal will be established, UN should disband its Serious Crimes Unit. Activists calling for prosecution of crimes later dispersed by police.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Aug 2009

Unchanged

Trial began 13 July of 28 people accused of involvement in Feb 2008 attack on President Jose Ramos-Horta.

  • “Justice in the dock”, ISN, 16 July 2009.
  • For latest report, see Crisis Group Asia Briefing N°87, Timor-Leste: No Time for Complacency, 9 Feb. 2009.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Jul 2009

Unchanged

17-19 June national dialogue on truth, reconciliation and justice brought together President, PM, political leaders, NGOs, clergy. President reportedly sought consensus to offer amnesty for crimes committed 1975-1999, ahead of 10th anniversary of 1999 referendum. Investigation launched into 7 June confrontation between F-FDTL and UNPOL in which soldiers allegedly turned weapons on international police following disagreement over F-FDTL intervention in clash between 2 martial arts groups in Maliana.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Jun 2009

Unchanged

Eastern Lautem district 14 May became first to be handed back to Timor-Leste National Police (PNTL) after almost 3 years of control by UN Police (UNPOL). 12 May agreement between govt and UN mission foreshadows phased resumption of policing responsibilities across the country’s 13 districts. UNPOL to remain in an advisory and monitoring role.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Apr 2009

Unchanged

Govt 4 March announced 28 to stand trial, charged 27 Feb in connection with Feb 2008 attempted assassination of President Ramos-Horta. Govt, UN 27 March announced start to transition of responsibility to national police.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Mar 2009

Unchanged

Following 19 Feb appeal by President Ramos-Horta during UNSC debate, UNSC 26 Feb renewed UNMIT mandate without major changes for 1 year, noting situation in Timor “although generally calm, remains fragile”.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Feb 2009

Unchanged

Roughly 100 Australian troops serving in Timor-Leste began redeployment 23 Jan; some 650 remain.

Timor-Leste

  |  5 Jan 2009

Unchanged

Judiciary appointments council declined to renew contract of Court of Appeal judge who wrote Nov finding that aspects of govt’s 2009 budget related to oil income expenditure illegal; move raised concerns over independence of judiciary. FRETILIN continued threats it would withdraw from parliament if budget approved, believing withdrawal would trigger early elections. UN special envoy for human rights of IDPs noted in mid-month visit that causes of 2006 violence not yet addressed.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Dec 2008

Unchanged

Court of Appeals 13 Nov ruled unconstitutional AMP govt’s proposed transfer of oil funds to Economic Stabilisation Fund. Govt rejected finding, further stoking political tensions with Fretilin partner, which has threatened to leave govt in move that require early elections.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Nov 2008

Unchanged

Australian defence minister announced 100 of 750 Australian members of the international stabilisation force would return home early next year.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Oct 2008

Unchanged

Leste PM Gusmão clarified earlier comments on withdrawal of International Stabilisation Force, saying troops needed for “at least 1 more year”. Timorese Court of Appeal refused petition presented by parliamentarians, human rights groups against president’s amnesty law, pardoning 94 implicated in 2006 crisis.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Sep 2008

Unchanged

Leaked UN report of investigation into Feb attacks on president highlighted weakness of Timorese forces’ response, slowness of UN. Leaked autopsy findings on rebel Alfredo Reinado killed in same incident showed shot 4 times at close range. Separate UN report noted increase in complaints about abuses by security forces. IDP camp at Dili airport, one of country’s largest, closed without incident.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Aug 2008

Unchanged

President Ramos-Horta and PM Gusmão indicated satisfaction at Indonesia President Yudhoyono’s regret for human rights violations surrounding Timor’s 1999 referendum (see Indonesia). Ramos-Horta said would not seek further judicial proceedings. Ramos-Horta proposing new amnesty legislation for perpetrators of 2006 violence. Police in Dili 7 July used tear gas to disperse student protest.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Jul 2008

Unchanged

UNPOL reportedly considering handover of command to national police in phased approach from July.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Jun 2008

Unchanged

Marking sixth anniversary of independence 20 May, President Ramos-Horta announced some 90 pardons, remitted sentences: including former Interior Minister Rogerio Lobato, imprisoned for arming civilians in 2006 violence. 4 Reinado supporters linked to 11 Feb attacks on Ramos-Horta, PM Xanana Gusmão extradited from Indonesia 5 May. 3 May agreement between governing coalition member Timorese Social Democratic Association and opposition FRETILIN puts coalition’s parliamentary majority at risk; increased chance of elections early 2009. Ramos-Horta early month requested UN presence until 2012: current UN mandate expires Feb 2009.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 May 2008

Improved

Security threat removed; 29 Apr surrender of Gastão Salsinha and 11 other fugitive rebels linked to 11 Feb attacks on President Ramos-Horta may bring increased stability. But ramifications of presidential efforts at reconciliation in month unclear: upon 17 Apr return to Dili to resume presidential duties, Ramos-Horta announced pardon of 80 criminals, including convicted former interior minister Rogério Lobato, to take effect 20 May. After surrender, Ramos-Horta said “forgave” Salsinha but that he must face courts with 5 others. State of emergency lifted 22 Apr except in Ermera, where joint police-military command now tasked with search for illegal weapons. 4 Timorese rebels also detained in Indonesia in month for suspected involvement in attacks; 3 to be deported to Dili early May. 28 Apr Australia announced withdrawal of 200 extra troops sent after Feb attacks.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Apr 2008

Unchanged

Rebel Amaro da Costa, alias Susar, surrendered to police custody 2 March; 6 other rebels implicated in 11 Feb attacks on President Ramos-Horta and PM Gusmão surrendered 22-23 March. Government talks with lead rebel Gastão Salsinha aimed at his surrender continued. State of emergency extended for 30 days from 23 March. Ombudsman report listed 8 incidents of police and military abuse since imposition of emergency. Ramos-Horta discharged from hospital 19 March. PM Araújo announced 31 March that assistance to Salsinha a criminal offence.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Mar 2008

Deteriorated Resolution Opportunity

President Ramos-Horta shot in attack on home 11 Feb by rebels led by former head of military police Alfredo Reinado, himself killed in firefight with guards. PM Gusmão escaped uninjured from attack same morning reportedly led by Reinado associate and leader of 2006 “petitioners” (disgruntled former soldiers) group, Gastão Salsinha. Reinado’s death may clear obstacle to reconciliation with petitioners, hundreds of whom have come to Dili to negotiate with government, and are housed in government-supported IDP camp. Gusmão declared 48-hour state of emergency, extended for 30 days 22 Feb. Ramos-Horta recovering in Darwin, Australia; Parliament President Araujo appointed acting president 14 Feb. Hunt for Salsinha and others closely associated with Reinado, now hiding in hills, continues. 4 suspects arrested after launch of security operations against rebels. Australia provided extra 200 soldiers and 70 police to help shore up security; few public disturbances reported. UNMIT mandate extended 1 year 25 Feb.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Feb 2008

Unchanged

Rebel leader Alfredo Reinado accused PM Gusmao of masterminding 2006 crisis in video released early Jan. Gusmao refused to respond to allegations. Former PM Alkatiri called for his resignation. President Ramos-Horta met with Reinado 13 Jan in Maubisse; declared May 2008 deadline for addressing his and petitioners’ grievances. 8 houses burnt in village in Covalima district by neighbouring villagers 4 Jan. Joint UN and local police operations targeted illegal immigration, drugs, and possible human trafficking.

Timor-Leste

  |  2 Jan 2008

Unchanged

Trial of former head of military police Major Alfredo Reinado, scheduled to commence 3 December, postponed to January 2008. PM Xanana Gusmao and President Ramos Horta attempted to hold dialogue 16 December with Reinado and leader of “petitioners” Gastao Salsinha – both refused to attend. Gusmao gave fugitive Reinado and supporters last chance to surrender, though consequences of non-compliance not elaborated. November UNSC mission reported 13 December; recommended extension of UNMIT mandate which expires February 2008. UNSG Ban Ki-moon visited 14 December, as did Australian PM Kevin Rudd who promised Australian troop presence until at least end 2008.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Dec 2007

Unchanged

PM Xanana Gusmão led first government dialogue with “petitioner” group 15-16 November in Ailieu; only 17 of 593 petitioners attended. Violent crime increased from 12 November with martial arts group fights killing 2 in Dili. Electricity problems and impending rice shortage risks triggering further unrest. UNSC delegation arrived 27 November to assess UNMIT operations. UNMIT announced successful completion of weapons recovery operation, 26 November.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Nov 2007

Unchanged

Former soldier Vicente Conceicao (aka Railos) arrested 3 October for role in 2006 violence, specifically for 9 deaths in Taci Tolu/Tibar 24 May 2006. Court of Appeal ordered re-trials in 2 high-profile cases of politically-related violence: May 2006 attack on house of army commander Taur Matan Ruak, and murder of CNRT supporter during June parliamentary elections. Timorese man shot dead by Indonesian border troops, 26 October, after allegedly attacking soldiers when confronted. Parliament approved government’s transitional budget 9 October.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Oct 2007

Unchanged

Sporadic arson attacks continued in Liquica, Ermera and Viqueque districts. Police (PNTL’s rapid reaction unit) made 8 arrests (including 6 PNTL officers) 15, 16 September in Viqueque district in connection with August arson. Disturbances along Comoro river in Dili throughout month, with hundreds involved in rock fights. Government introduced new 5-year program in parliament 13 September; passed 14 September, 41 to 23 votes; Fretilin criticised lack of government priorities, no allocation of budget by sector. SRSG Atul Khare called 10 September for extension of UNMIT beyond current mandate of 26 February 2008; said mission would take 3-5 years. FM Zacarias da Costa requested UNSC consideration of UNMIT extension to 2012.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Sep 2007

Unchanged

President Ramos-Horta asked AMP alliance (CNRT, PSD, ASDT, PD) to form government 6 August, after AMP candidates elected parliament president, vice-president and secretary end July. Fretilin Secretary-General Mari Alkatiri called decision unconstitutional and announced parliamentary boycott. Violent protests and arson attacks followed in Dili, Baucau and Viqueque. UN reported 4,000 displaced. Most ministers and some secretaries of state of new government sworn in 8 August: Xanana Gusmao new PM, with additional direct responsibility for defence, security and natural resources. Jose Luis Guterres of Fretilin Mudansa elected vice prime-minister. Fretilin returned to parliament 20 August.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Aug 2007

Unchanged

Period since 30 June parliamentary elections characterised by political uncertainty and sporadic violence. Vote proved inconclusive: Fretilin, led by former PM Mari Alkatiri, received most votes with 29%; CNRT, under former President Xanana Gusmao, won 24%. Gusmao is seeking to form government in coalition with other parties (ASDT/PSD and PD), while Fretilin insists on constitutional right to form minority government and former PM Mari Alkatiri announced intention to run for PM 1 August. New parliament inaugurated 30 July. President Ramos-Horta now has to decide who has constitutional right to form government.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Jul 2007

Unchanged

Parliamentary elections held 30 June without major incident. Campaign period marred by 3 June shooting in Viqueque district of 2 CNRT supporters by police (one off-duty). Series of house burnings and intimidation displaced over hundred families from Ermera district. President Ramos-Horta asked International Security Forces to stop search for fugitive rebel soldier Alfredo Reinado 19 June and called on prosecutor-general to discuss terms for Reinado’s surrender and weapons handover under mediation of Catholic Church.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Jun 2007

Unchanged

Jose Ramos-Horta scored landslide victory in 9 May second round presidential elections with 69%; sworn in 20 May. Fretilin candidate “Lu-Olo” Guterres conceded defeat and encouraged supporters to accept results. Campaign period relatively peaceful, elections pronounced generally free and fair, but accusations of electoral fraud, voter intimidation and vote-buying persisted. 14 parties to contest 30 June parliamentary election, although only 4 expected to win seats: Fretilin, CNRT (headed by Xanana Gusmao), PD, and ASDT/PSD coalition. Clashes between CNRT and Fretilin supporters reported 31 May. Court of Appeal upheld 7 and half year sentence against former interior minister, Rogerio Lobato, for arming civilians in 2006 violence.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 May 2007

Unchanged

First round of presidential elections held 9 April: after 82% turnout, Fretilin candidate Francisco “Lu Olo” Guterres (28%) will face José Ramos Horta (22%) in second round 9 May. Limited campaign-related violence between Fretilin and other supporters in Viqueque and Dili, observers declared polls generally free and fair and devoid of violence. Losing candidates complained of irregularities and intimidation at poll; in Baucau, number of votes exceeded registered voters by factor of 3. Efforts to capture ex-army rebel Alfredo Reinado called off 23 April by Ramos. Sporadic clashes in Dili in late April, but security situation relatively stable.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Apr 2007

Unchanged Risk Alert

Presidential election campaigns began for 9 April poll with risk of increased political violence. Supporters of current PM Jose Ramos-Horta and Fretilin party clashed 30 March. Ramos-Horta seen as favourite while incumbent President Xanana Gusmao to stand for PM later in year as candidate for newly formed Congress for National Reconstruction of East Timor. Australian-led international peacekeeping forces failed to capture rebel leader Alfredo Reinado in 4 March raid on his base; 4 rebels died and mass protests followed in Dili.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Mar 2007

Deteriorated Risk Alert

Violence surged towards end of month with increased targeting of and resentment towards international peacekeepers. Australian troops launched operation against rebel leader Alfredo Reinado 27 February in response to government request after Reinado’s group raided several police border posts, seizing weapons. Australian peacekeeper killed 2 civilians 23 February, after allegedly being attacked at refugee camp near Dili. More unrest feared in run-up to presidential elections in April. PM Jose Ramos-Horta urged UN to send more Portuguese police to bolster security; announced candidacy for presidency. Charges against former PM Alkatiri dropped 5 February. UN Security Council voted 22 February to extend UN peacekeeping mission (UNMIT) for further year.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Feb 2007

Unchanged

Rogerio Lobato, former interior minister, went on trial 9 January on charges of setting up hit squads during April-May 2006 unrest. Former police inspector Neto Mok and 3 Timor-Leste defense force personnel named in UN Special Commission of Inquiry report remanded to Becora prison 12 January. President Xanana Gusmao announced would not run again in forthcoming elections. UN, T-L and Australia signed trilateral agreement 26 January establishing forum to discuss security issues and ensure coordination between government and peacekeepers. PM Horta submitted controversial bill to parliament providing for conscription into defence forces.

Timor-Leste

  |  2 Jan 2007

Unchanged

Low-level gang violence continued in Dili. Army rebel Alfredo Reinado, in hiding since August jailbreak, met armed forces chief Taur Matan Rauk in Dili 21 December for reconciliation talks before retreating to jungle hideout. New UN envoy Atul Khare arrived in country; pledged to make security sector reform his priority.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Dec 2006

Unchanged

PM Ramos-Horta asked Australian and New Zealand troops to stay in Dili alongside UN police; said seeking trilateral accord with UN and Australia on command structure. Peace rallies in Dili to mark 15th anniversary of Santa Cruz massacre united rival gangs in Dili, but gang violence erupted again 19 November, killing Brazilian missionary. Former PM Mari Alkatiri announced would not stand for re-election in 2007.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Nov 2006

Unchanged

Violence escalated after publication of UN inquiry into April-May unrest: report claimed former PM Mari Alkatiri’s government knowingly provided civilians with state weapons, called for further investigation of his failure to stop transfers and recommended prosecution of former minster Rogerio Lobato, armed forces chief Taur Matan Rauk, and dozens of others. Street fighting left several dead in final week of October. T-L government dropped request for all-UN peacekeeping force, deciding to keep Australian and New Zealand troops under separate but coordinated command.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Oct 2006

Unchanged

UN force of 550 took over policing duties as clashes between gangs continued to break out in Dili. UN envoy Hasegawa ended 4-year tenure with bleak speech warning of “very fragile and volatile” situation and highlighting concerns over unrest in IDP camps near the capital. Australian foreign minister Downer, in visit to Dili, warned current UN deployment insufficient.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Sep 2006

Unchanged

Situation remained tense with local trust in international police/defence forces and government greatly reduced. Process of removing illicit weapons and holding those responsible for April/May violence yet to begin; 56 prisoners, including Alfredo Reinado, rebel leader arrested in July, escaped from Dili jail 30 August. UN Security Council unanimously approved new and expanded UN mission (UNMIT) 26 August. Mission to consist of 1,600 police and 35 military liaison officers, but no troops. Previous request by Dili, UNSG Annan, China, France and others for UN control over all international troops rejected in resolution - allowing Australia, with 1,500 troops in multi-national force of 2,300, to retain control and financial burden for military component; Annan to review arrangements by 25 October. Intermittent violence persisted in Dili despite President Gusmao’s suspension of emergency rule. Attacks by youths on refugee camps saw Australian police fire warning shots. 25 gang members arrested for arson and attack on police 21 August.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Aug 2006

Improved

Situation showed signs of improvement as former Foreign and Defence Minister Ramos-Horta sworn in as new PM 10 July, prompting more rebels to surrender weapons. New cabinet sworn in 14 July with PM retaining defence portfolio. TL asked UN Security Council for 800 international police for 2 to 5 years. UN Special Envoy told UNSC substantial long-term military and police presence required. Peacekeepers arrested 20 for illegal possession of weapons, including rebel leader Reinado. UN commission of inquiry set October deadline for its investigations into April-May violence. Former PM Alkatiri questioned over allegations he paid rebels to attack opponents. International police force gradually replacing military patrols in Dili as first Australian troops withdrew. Violent attacks by teenage gangs increased, including attack on UNICEF worker.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Jul 2006

Unchanged

Political and security situation remained tense. PM Alkatiri resigned 26 June after mass demonstrations and President Gusmao threatened to resign if he stayed in office: sparked new violence in Dili. Foreign and Defence Minister Ramos-Horta resigned in objection to ruling Frelitin party support for Alkatiri but appeared ready to resume duties if asked. Former Interior Minister Lobato arrested for arming rebels; Alkatiri claimed immunity to avoid investigation. Rebels agreed to disarm; Australian troops began process 16 June. Australian government pushed for greater UN involvement but U.S. opposed deployment of UN peacekeepers to replace Australian-led contingent. UN appointed 3-member commission of inquiry to investigate April-May violence. UN mission extended until 20 August.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Jun 2006

Deteriorated

Security collapsed as 600 renegade soldiers, dismissed in April after strike over perceived discrimination against western recruits and led by Maj. Alfredo Reinado, clashed with security forces. 30 killed since late April, including 10 disarmed police under UN protection, leading to deployment of over 2,000 mostly Australian troops 25-29 May at request of government. Arson attacks and looting throughout capital as urban gang members contributed to chaos, along with protests calling for resignation of PM Alkatiri. President Gusmao imposed emergency powers of full presidential control 30 May; defence and interior ministers resigned 1 June.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 May 2006

Deteriorated

Protest against government sacking of 600 soldiers turned violent 28 April, at least 2 killed; was latest in series of demonstrations by troops - many from west of country - claiming discrimination in military.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Feb 2006

Unchanged

Border patrol shot dead 3 Indonesians, reportedly former militia members, sparking protests. President Gusmao presented report on Indonesian occupation to UNSG Annan, which attributes 183,000 civilian deaths to Jakarta.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Jan 2005

Unchanged

Joint Indonesian/Timor-Leste Commission on Truth and Friendship unveiled by foreign ministers 21 December. Likely to supersede UN plans for own enquiry.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Dec 2004

Unchanged

UN Security Council unanimously voted to extend UN mission for final 6 months until 20 May 2005.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Oct 2004

Unchanged

Maritime boundary talks with Australia continued. New framework whereby Timor-Leste foregoes boundary claims in return for oil/gas revenue may make December deadline achievable.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Sep 2004

Unchanged

Secretary-General of Timor-Leste’s foreign ministry Nelson Santos urged UN peacekeepers to remain until 2005, citing potentially unstable border with Indonesia and delays training security forces. UN to review 604-strong force in October. Clashes broke out between gangs in Ainaro 16-18 August. Police commander killed and dozens of houses burned. Three Indonesian army commanders and 1 police officer convicted in 1999 of crimes against humanity by Jakarta ad-hoc human rights court had sentences overturned by Indonesia’s Supreme Court.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Aug 2004

Unchanged

Approximately 100 former guerrillas demonstrated outside main government building demanding more reform 20 July. Vital revenue from Timor Sea oil/gas fields at stake in continuing border dispute with Australia.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Jul 2004

Unchanged

Preliminary border agreement signed with Indonesia at meeting of Association of South-East Asian Nations in Jakarta 30 June. President Xanana Gusmao’s government not to pursue UN prosecutors’ arrest warrant for Indonesian presidential candidate Wiranto (indicted for crimes against humanity).

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Jun 2004

Unchanged

Dili took over responsibility for defence and internal policing 19 May. UN declared 12-month "consolidation phase" during which peacekeepers can be used in extraordinary circumstances. Security Council cut UN peacekeepers from 3000 to 700; gave 6-month mandate. Nervousness about ability of indigenous forces to handle job alone, especially in border areas where militia activity reported in recent months.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 May 2004

Unchanged

Continuing concern over possible militia incursions from West Timor. Next UN resolution on security situation due 10 May.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Apr 2004

Unchanged

East Timor welcomed proposals to form new foreign police unit to boost security after current UN mission is scaled down in May. Australia, U.S. and Britain suggested creation of 125-strong armed emergency response police unit. Prosecutors intensified push for arrest of former Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI) commander General Wiranto, citing evidence he failed to prevent crimes against humanity in 1999.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Mar 2004

Unchanged

UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan urged a scaled-back peacekeeping force be kept in place for another year to guard against unexpected developments. East Timor Foreign Minister Jose Ramos-Horta agreed with Annan's recommendation. Presently 1,750 UN troops and military observers in country. A force of 310 soldiers will remain after 20 May.

Timor-Leste

  |  1 Feb 2004

Unchanged

Government called for UN to extend its mission beyond 20 May deadline. At present 2000 UN personnel in East Timor. UN Secretary General to report to Security Council in February. Australian Defence Force chief, General Peter Cosgrove, said his troops should remain in East Timor even if UN pulls out in May. Two issues raising tensions on border with Indonesia: East Timorese upset by Indonesian military exercises on Palau Batek, small island off coast of East Timorese enclave. Secondly, group composed of disgruntled former Fretilin members, Kolimau, allegedly infiltrating from East Timor into West Timor to recruit former militias there to help destabilise East Timor once UN peacekeepers withdraw May 2004.