2027 Presidential Elections: Govt approve timetable for electoral registration abroad

DÍLI, 11 September 2026 (TATOLI) — The Council of Ministers has approved a draft Government Decree setting the timetable for electoral registration and the updating of voter records abroad ahead of Timor-Leste’s 2027 presidential election.

The draft legislation, presented by Minister for State Administration Tomás do Rosário Cabral, sets the overseas registration period from October 8, 2026, to January 22, 2027.

“The legislation stipulates that the registration and updating of electoral registration records abroad will take place between October 8th, 2026, and January 22nd, 2027,” said in a statement.

According to the government, additional material and human resources will be deployed at the main diplomatic missions and consular posts, and the possibility of setting up mobile registration posts will be considered.

The extended period is also intended to allow voters to update their details for the new biometric system and to facilitate the exercise of the right to vote by Timorese citizens living abroad.

TATOLI