MANATUTO, 05 may 2024 (TATOLI) – Prime Minister, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, accompanied by Government members, partners, and local leaders inaugurated Balkaun Uniku, the One-Stop-Shop (OSS) in Manatuto Municipality, marking a significant step towards decentralization in Timor-Leste.
The OSS makes it easier than ever for citizens to access key government services in one convenient location. It allows citizens to get their passports, ID cards, and criminal records checked all at the same place.
He said the launch of the OSS gives Timor-Leste another important step to move forward, calling on Manatuto’s civil servants to serve the people accordingly.
“With the launch of OSS, we’re not just simplifying processes; we’re also increasing transparency, lowering costs, and combating corruption, all while paving the path for a more efficient, accessible, and accountable public service system,” said Adeline Carrier, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative.
The decentralization process is part of Timor-Leste’s vision for the future, and the partnership between UNDP and the Government of Timor-Leste, via Ministério Administração Estatal (MAE) has been fundamental in moving it forward.
The inauguration of the OSS counted with the presence Prime Minister Gusmão, Minister of State Administration, Tomás Cabral, President Court of Appeal, Deolindo dos Santos, First Vice President National Parliament, Deputy Maria Terezinha Viegas, EU Ambassador in Timor-Leste, Marc Fiedrich, Australia’s Ambassador in Timor-Leste, Caitlin Wilson and United Nations Timor-Leste Resident Coordinator, Funmi Balogun.
“The two new OSSs, Manatuto and Liquiça, are examples of the fruitful collaboration that is intended to continue. With ongoing digitalization efforts, we are hoping to make these services accessible to even more people across our country, particularly those in remote areas,” said Carrier.
Journalist: Cidalia Fátima
Editor: Armandina Moniz
Translation: Jose Belarmino de Sa
