UNOTIL

Compiled by the Public Information Office from national and international sources

Daily Media Review

Thursday, 23 March 2006

National Media Reports

Security Tightens Upon President’s Arrival

President Xanana Gusmão arrived in Dili on Wednesday amid tight security due to rumours of protest by former members of the Armed Forces recently dismissed. The Special Task Force and the Rapid Response Unit of PNTL and the Military Police were present at the airport to anticipate any demonstration against the President, the media reported. He spoke briefly to the media about his overseas trip and announced that he would make a statement today on the F-FDTL members that were dismissed.

On a separate note, President Gusmão said the reason for delaying distribution of CAVR’s report is due to lack of funding for printing. He said he’s seeking funding for this purpose and people should think before making any accusations that it is being distributed overseas but not in Timor-Leste where the eyewitness and the victims lives. The President added that Japan and America have shown interest in support of this project and that Secretary General Kofi Annan will also discuss this issue with UNDP. Gusmão emphasized that the report will be made public before he concludes his mandate.

In the meantime, Gastão Salsinha told the media that he has been encouraging his colleagues to continue to maintain discipline and await the decision of the Supreme Commander, Xanana Gusmão. Salsinha also made clear that the soldiers who signed the petition had no intention of holding a protest against Gusmão as speculated.

Proof Needed On Whom Is Involved in F-FDTL Case: Lobato

Referring to the statement made by Cornelio “L-7 ” Gama that some leaders are instigating the problems behind F-FDTL, MP Lucia Lobato (PSD) reportedly said “ if we say some leaders are provoking, we have to have proof. It is easier to name the leaders responsible, rather than speak in the air”. Lobato said there are numerous leaders and if one is trying to destroy the nation it would be better to name this person. She added that the same goes for some commanders of F-FDTL who are saying that some opposition parties are behind the problem but not mentioning names.

President Gusmão To Look Into Penal Code

President Gusmão also told the media upon his arrival from an official overseas trip on Wednesday that he is going to look into the Penal Code presented by the Government. Gusmão said he would then make a decision on whether to promulgate or veto it, especially the article on defamation, which has raised intense debate. (STL, TP, DN)

Regional Media Reports

National News Sources

Timor Post (TP) Radio Timor-Leste (RTL) Suara Timor Lorosae (STL) Diario Tempo (DT) Diario Nacional Seminario Lia Foun (LF) Televisaun Timor-Leste [TVTL]

These Items Do Not Reflect the Position or Views of the United Nations. UNOTIL Public Information Office

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