DILI, 17 december 2025 (TATOLI) – The Council of Ministers has approved a draft government resolution mandating an audit of outstanding electricity debts owed by public institutions to Eletricidade de Timor-Leste, E.P. (EDTL), and authorising the partial settlement of validated amounts under the 2025 General State Budget.
The resolution, presented jointly by Finance Minister Santina Cardoso and Public Works Minister Samuel Marçal, addresses accumulated arrears linked to electricity supply that are estimated at about US$28 million.
The Government said the unpaid debts have undermined EDTL’s financial sustainability and operational capacity, a concern also identified in reports by the Chamber of Accounts.
Under the resolution, the Ministry of Finance is tasked with conducting a detailed audit to verify the amounts owed by each public entity.
The measure authorises the payment of US$18 million in 2025, an amount already included in the General State Budget, following validation of the audited figures.
The remaining balance will be settled through a phased payment plan to be implemented in subsequent years.
The resolution also requires all public institutions to properly budget for electricity expenses to prevent the accumulation of new arrears and to safeguard the long-term sustainability of EDTL’s services.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
