DILI, 27 May 2025 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta addressed a range of pressing national issues during a press conference today, providing clarifications on recent presidential pardons, detailing the ongoing progress of Timor-Leste’s ASEAN accession, and offering an update on a legal case involving a Filipino national.
President Horta clarified that six pardons were granted, primarily to women who were victims of violence and reacted to their circumstances, deeming their continued imprisonment an injustice.
He stressed these did not apply to individuals convicted of serious crimes like murder, embezzlement, or abuse of power.
On ASEAN, the President reaffirmed Timor-Leste’s commitment, referencing the November 2022 “in principle” agreement and the May 2023 roadmap.
President described the “ongoing” process as requiring sustained government efforts, international lobbying, meeting various criteria (including infrastructure), and highlighted crucial regional support, particularly from Indonesia.
Horta also addressed a legal case concerning a Filipino national, expressing hope for a swift resolution and confirming the matter is currently with Timor-Leste’s justice system.
TATOLI
