DILI, 19 february 2026 (TATOLI) – Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão met today with President José Ramos-Horta to provide updates on Timor-Leste’s international engagements and the Government’s decentralization strategy.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister confirmed the suspension of Timor-Leste’s planned support mission to Guinea-Bissau due to the country’s political instability.
He also presented the 2026 calendar of the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP), which includes high-level ministerial meetings in Dili and Lisbon and will culminate in celebrations marking the Lusophone bloc’s 30th anniversary in july.
On domestic governance, Gusmão outlined the Government’s decentralization roadmap, announcing a series of municipal visits beginning next week to assess the performance and capacity of local administrations nationwide.
The assessments will determine which municipalities are ready for the transition to autonomy and participation in Timor-Leste’s first local elections, currently planned for 2027.
Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão emphasized a policy of reconciliation and the search for truth regarding the national struggle, while simultaneously reaffirming a strict stance against the legalization of casinos. He further noted that the Government remains committed to protecting Timorese families from the financial ruin associated with unregulated gambling.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
