Ramos-Horta urges Timorese youth to lead innovation and sustainable development
DÍLI, 12 November 2026 (TATOLI) – President José Ramos-Horta has called on Timor-Leste’s young people to take a leading role in driving innovation, strengthening national unity and advancing sustainable development, as the country marks the 35th anniversary of the Santa Cruz Massacre and the 21st National Youth Day.
In a message commemorating the two occasions on Thursday, Ramos-Horta paid tribute to the young Timorese who were killed during the peaceful demonstration at Santa Cruz Cemetery on November 12, 1991, describing their courage and sacrifice as a defining moment in the country’s struggle for independence.
On that day, young Timorese marched from Motael Church to Santa Cruz Cemetery to honour a fellow compatriot who had been killed and to demand justice and freedom. Indonesian security forces opened fire on the demonstrators, killing and injuring many people.
The massacre was captured on film by British journalist Max Stahl, and the footage was broadcast internationally, drawing global attention to the violence and strengthening international support for Timor-Leste’s struggle for self-determination.
“The young martyrs of Santa Cruz did not die in vain,” Ramos-Horta said, adding that their courage had helped shape the nation’s path towards independence and laid the foundations for the sovereign country Timor-Leste is today.
He said the annual commemoration was not only an opportunity to remember the sacrifices made during the independence struggle but also a moment to reinforce the values of unity, peace, solidarity and national identity.
The president also highlighted the significance of National Youth Day, saying the occasion recognised the courage, resilience and enthusiasm of young people and their potential to drive positive change.
He drew a connection between the generations, noting that young people in 1991 had fought for the right of Timorese to determine their own future, while today’s generation had the responsibility and opportunity to shape the country’s development.
“With the spirit of 12 November, I call upon every Timorese to come together to build peace and prosperity for sustainable development,” he said.
Ramos-Horta stressed that the challenges facing the younger generation were different from those confronted during the independence struggle, arguing that the country’s priorities should now focus on creativity, innovation and regional competitiveness rather than conflict.
He urged young people to strengthen their technological skills, pursue education, reject division and prepare themselves to lead across different sectors of society.
“You are not only the leaders of tomorrow; you are the changemakers of today,” he said.
The president concluded his message by expressing hope that the memory of the Santa Cruz martyrs would continue to inspire future generations and contribute to building a peaceful and prosperous Timor-Leste.
TATOLI
