DILI, 09 august 2022 (TATOLI) – The former Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, the Secretary-General of the FRETILIN Party, Marí bin Amude Alkatiri, called for a national consensus among the national leaders of the 1975 generation before the responsibility is passed on to the next generation.
“The President and I have discussed many things. We need to have a national consensus among the national leaders of my generation. So, we need to have a dialogue among ourselves before we hand over the responsibility to the next generation,” Alkatiri said after meeting with President Horta at the Presidential Palace today.
He said that national dialogue and national consensus are important for older leaders to correct their mistakes and strengthen national unity for the next generation.
“It is important for us as national leaders of the 1975 generation to leave something memorable to our next generation to ensure the sustainability of this country,” he stressed.
Alkatiri said that the older generation must leave a legacy of blessings, unity, and stability for generations to come.
“We are human. So, I think during the past 20 years we have made significant progress. And not everything we did in the past was perfect. So, it’s time to reflect on the past and look to the future,” Alkatiri said.
When asked about any specific issues in his discussion with President Horta, Alkatiri refused to answer.
“I am willing to talk to any national leaders to move this nation forward. That is why I am here today at the Presidential Palace to discuss with President Horta about the future of Timor-Leste,” he said.
Alkatiri reiterated that: “It is time for the national leaders of the generation of the 75s to have a round table discussion because we know that Timor-Leste needs us and our unity.”
Journalist: Filomeno Martins
Editor: Nelia Borges
