DILI, 29 September 2025 (TATOLI) — President José Ramos-Horta promulgated a new law that revokes the lifetime pensions and benefits for former members of parliament, government officials, and holders of sovereign offices, with retroactive effect from 20 May 2002.
The law, approved unanimously by the National Parliament, marks a rare moment of complete political consensus in Timor-Leste’s 23 years of restored independence. Ramos-Horta noted that even the Constitution, the Strategic Development Plan, and the 2018 Maritime Boundary Treaty with Australia did not enjoy such unanimity.
“This is, without a doubt, one of the most significant moments in our young democracy,” the president said in a televised address. He described the law as both corrective because it amends legislation that violated the principle of equity, and educational, because it reflects the values of fairness and accountability.
Ramos-Horta acknowledged the social and human impact of the decision. “I am aware that it will affect the lives of leaders and militants of the long struggle for independence,” he said. “This Law does not strip them of their rights as veterans, nor of the rights enshrined to a fair and dignified retirement.”
The President urged the government to implement the law with “a rational and just transition” to ensure fair treatment of those affected.
Ramos-Horta said that he has already discussed the matter twice with Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão and received assurances that dignified solutions are being considered.
He also consulted a wide range of national figures, including the President of the Court of Appeal, the Prosecutor General, the Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice, the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, the Chief of Defence, his senior adviser General Lere Anan Timur, as well as students and members of the resistance.
“This law reflects, in an unequivocal way, the will of all representatives of the people and of the IX Constitutional Government,” Ramos-Horta said. He reminded that many political leaders had promised during the 2023 electoral campaign to abolish the lifetime pension law.
“The path of democracy is made of difficult choices,” he added. “The greatness of a nation is measured not only by the courage to reform, but also by the humanity with which it treats its citizens, including those who have served the State.”
The President concluded his speech by reaffirming confidence in Timor-Leste’s political maturity. “May solidarity and human dignity continue to guide our common destiny,” he said.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
