DILI, 30 april 2024 (TATOLI) – Today, U.S. Embassy Dili Chargé d’Affaires Marc A. Weinstock, President of the Court of Appeal Deolindo dos Santos, Vice Prime Minister Mariano “Assanami” Sabino, and USAID Interim Mission Director Mark White launched the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) newly created “Accountability and Integrity Mechanism Activity,” known as AIM, focused on promoting accountability and anti-corruption reforms in Timor-Leste.
The three-year, US$7.9 million activity, implemented by Dexis Consulting Group, intends to enhance the country’s institutions and democratic system to deliver “an inclusive, prosperous, and healthy Timor-Leste” for all Timorese.
“We believe in the power of accountability and transparency to build a foundation for a thriving democracy. People-level impact is paramount, and the new AIM activity is a testament to the U.S. Government’s commitment to empower the people of Timor-Leste,” said U.S. Embassy Dili Chargé d’Affaires Marc A. Weinstock.
AIM will enhance the capacity of crucial accountability institutions, including the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Office of the Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice, and the Audit Chamber. Activities will bolster institutional independence and facilitate citizen-led accountability through improved legislative and governmental policies.
“We appreciate the confidence USAID has expressed in Dexis and look forward to working with the citizens of Timor-Leste to promote greater accountability,” said Dexis Chief Executive Officer Mihir Desai.
The Minister of Justice Sergio Hornai, Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice Virgilio Guterres, representatives from Civil Society organizations, and members of the media were also present at the event.
Through USAID, the United States Embassy to Timor-Leste is contributing nearly $92 million between 2021 and 2025, bolstering Timor-Leste’s economy and promoting good governance. Since Timor-Leste’s independence, USAID has contributed over US$323 million, fostering inclusive and peaceful development for a more prosperous, healthy, and self-reliant nation.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
