DILI, 25 June 2026 (TATOLI) — Street vendors from Taibessi Market gathered outside the Farol residence of former President Francisco Guterres “Lú Olo” on Thursday to pay their final respects to former President Francisco Guterres “Lú Olo”.
The vendors brought baskets of fruit and other local produce to the residence, where the former president’s body is lying in state, before lining up to offer flowers, gifts and prayers to his grieving family.
The vendors said the tribute was a gesture of gratitude and respect for a leader whose death had deeply saddened the community of street vendors and small traders.
Florinda dos Reis, a street vendor from Turiscai in Manufahi Municipality, said the initiative came from the vendors themselves shortly after they learned of “Lú Olo’s” passing.
“We regarded President ‘Lú Olo’ as a great tree that gave shade and protection to ordinary people. We were deeply saddened by his passing and decided to come together to pay our final respects,” she said.
Dos Reis said the fruits and local produce symbolized the vendors’ appreciation for the support and respect that “Lú Olo” consistently showed toward street vendors, and disadvantaged families.
“Our protective tree has fallen. We came to thank him for everything he did for us and to wish him eternal peace. His body is no longer with us, but his spirit will remain with us forever,” she added.
Manuel de Jesus, recalled his long-standing relationship with the former president, which began in 2006 when he sold vegetables from a handcart on the streets of Dili.
He said “Lú Olo” and his wife allowed him to enter their home to sell vegetables, a gesture he described as rare and unforgettable.
“When I was selling vegetables from my handcart, the President and his wife allowed me to enter their home. Over time, they became regular customers, and we maintained that relationship for nearly two years,” he said.
Manuel said he continued supplying fresh produce even after “Lú Olo” moved to another residence.
Before visiting the presidential residence, he would first contact security officers to ensure there were no official engagements. Once cleared, he was allowed to enter and deliver the produce directly to the kitchen.
“When I arrived, the President would come out to buy the vegetables. Sometimes he would stay and chat with me, and even invite me for coffee,” Manuel recalled, describing the former president as humble and approachable.
“The President genuinely cared about us, the street vendors. When I heard the news of his death, I was deeply shaken. It will be very difficult to find another person with the same humility and respect for ordinary people,” he said.
Manuel added that “Lú Olo” and his wife consistently supported locally produced food and maintained a close relationship with small vendors, a legacy that, he said, will remain in the memories of the street vendor community for years to come.
Journalist: Afonso do Rosário
Editor: Isaura Lemos de Deus
Translation: Filomeno Martins
