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031004** Fernando de Araujo - Reflections on East Timor 1 Year After Independence: An Opposition Leaders Perspective

In May 2002 after 500 years of colonial rule and almost 25 years of armed struggle, East Timor regained its independence. In the lead up to the declaration of independence, free elections were held in August of 2001. During the lead up to those elections various options were put forward as to how this new nation could be structured politically. As the first Prime Minister, Xanana Gusmao, began the task of nation building he reminded his people that both he and they will have to learn the ropes of democracy as they go. But the transition to independence has not yet transformed the lives of ordinary East Timorese. Soaring inflation, lack of employment and unregulated markets along with pressure from the huge oil and gas multinationals has not seen the fruits of democracy flow on to the people it was meant to benefit.

In 2001 Fernando de Araujo was elected the president of the Partido Democratico and in August of that year the party ran second in the election of the Constituent Assembly. During the Second Transitional Administration he became a Cabinet Member as Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs and he currently serves as a member of Parliament and is leader of the Opposition Coalition Platform made up of representatives of eight political parties. Fernando de Araujo spoke at an event held in Melbourne on May 30th 2003 that was jointly organised by the Melbourne Institute of Asian Languages and Societies, the Asialink Centre and the East Timorese Students Association.

** CD only


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Alternative Radio (Aust.) PO Box 780 Morwell Victoria 3848 Australia
tel. 61-3-5134-8556 mob. 61-413-597-828 inquiries@araustralia.org
www.araustralia.org