DÍLI, August 20, 2020 (TATOLI) – Timor-Leste Celebrate’s 45th anniversary of the Armed Forces of National Liberation of Timor-Leste (Falintil).
The President of the Republic, Francisco Guterres Lú Olo, said in his speech that the Falintil commemorations allow us to recall and reflect on the past of the struggle of the former guerrillas that fought against the Indonesian occupation. Their continued efforts, together with the referendum on August 30, 1999, led to national victory for Timor-Leste.
“Today’s ceremony carries the theme “Ha’u prontu no desididu atu serve interese povu no nasaun nian” [‘I am ready and determined to serve the people and the nation’]. The motto fits the historical past of the Falintil which, with resilience and capacity, knew how to lead us to national liberation”, President Lu Olo in his speech commemorating the 45th anniversary of falintil in Dili.
According to the President, the strong spirit of the Falintil gave both inspiration and strength to the Maubere people towards development and social well-being.
Teki Timor, a former fighter, highlighted the importance of Falintil Day celebrations to preserve the true history for future generations, making them aware of the suffering experienced by the guerrillas.
Teki Timor also acknowledged the worsening conditions many war veterans are experiencing, suggesting that the state give them more support, providing them with “a dignified life”.
“Despite some apprehension, we should be patient because the day will come when we will achieve this goal,” he said.
The former guerrilla fighter also called on the Government to guarantee medical care to veterans.
The veteran also called for the Timorese population to reflect on the current situation being experienced in the country, recalling that Timor-Leste’s independence was not short, but was the result of a long process of an armed struggle against the invaders. He, therefore, suggested that politicians “stop being selfish and stop heading towards the destruction of the national interest.”
The ceremony that marked the 45th anniversary of the Falintil, was held at the Headquarters of the F-FDTL in Fatuhada, in attendance were Senior Australian Officials, Australian military, Australian Veterans, Australian Diplomats, and other diplomats.
Journalist: Zezito Silva
Editor: Maria Auxliadora/Nick Kettle
