Australian Solidarity Commends New E. Timor Govt

Australian Solidarity Congratulates New East Timor Government

Australian Solidarity activists congratulate the new East Timor Government, with the new Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao sworn in today by President Jose Ramos Horta.

A new Cabinet has been posted by media, with names of many friends, representing a shift to a newer generation of Timorese politicians, from several parties. Some are even from the Fretilin reform wing.

We hope that a new government of hope and inspiration, free of corruption, will develop to the benefit of the ordinary people of East Timor.

Clearly there are many problems ahead, and from yesterday there are dissident youths or possibly professional agitators burning buildings and attacking cars and people. This is a disgrace, and simply sets back the progress of the country.

It is widely reported that these actions are by reputed Fretilin supporters, and although the Fretilin leaders are speaking against such violence, their repeated claim to being legally dudded, their walkout from Parliament, and their predictions of violence, do not suggest adequate preemptive education and persuasion.

Anywhere in the world the person who can command a clear majority of votes in Parliament is the legitimate choice for a President to ask to form a government.

As no government was formed by agreement with Fretilin over 2 weeks, the President had no reasonable option but to ask the AMP (Alliance of the Parliamentary Majority) to form government.

We appeal to all East Timorese citizens to settle their differences peacefully and legally, and urgently work together and productively each other, and with the UN, supportive NGOs and people, towards a prosperous and just future for all East Timorese citizens.

ENDS

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