“As Prime Minister, Defence Minister, and as an individual, I share with President Xanana Gusmáo and with the President of the National Parliament Francisco Guterres ‘Lu-Olo’ the same views expressed in our joint statement, and I quote:
 
The impartial and independent manner in which the commission undertook its work, in accordance with international standards, is commended. The wise manner in which the commission guided itself in their analyses by adopting the standard of ‘reasonable suspect’ is singled out. This implies that our courts will have to take on the responsibility to undertake further investigations and also the responsibility to prosecute.
 
We call upon the entire civil society and the professionals of the media to adopt a positive behavior by also committing themselves to assist stabilizing the already difficult situation, particularly in the capital of the city.
 
We call upon all groups that continue to be involved in violence to put an end to such violent actions. We cannot live eternally under this climate of continued disrespect for the lives and goods of the others.
 
“We must leave it to the judicial system to take the steps that they deem necessary in regard to the recommendations of the commission of inquiry.
 
“I have spoken with the Chief of the Armed Forces of Timor-Leste Brigadier-General Taur Matan Ruak and I am reiterating my full confidence in him and in his leadership. Throughout the crisis the senior command of F-FDTL showed zeal and discipline.
 
“It was known to all that the leadership of F-FDTL were not engaged in any cover up of allegations that weapons were distributed by F-FDTL leadership to former combatants.
 
“When the leadership of F-FDTL received orders to disarm all the former combatants who had received weapons, they did so promptly.
 
“An international commission of verification comprising elements from Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Portugal, the UK and US took part in the verification of the F-FDTL armory and verified that all weapons were accounted for and were safely locked in the F-FDTL armory.
 
“On the alleged massacre reportedly perpetrated by elements of F-FDTL, the commission found it to be baseless, and it confirms my personal belief based on my own numerous conversations with the so-called Petitioners and others that such massacre never took place.
 
“Hence, one of the main reasons for the resentment and distrust of F-FDTL has now been removed. And I believe this will help restore F-FDTL prestige and credibility in the eyes of our people.
 
“As Minister for Defence I am pleased to say that having spoken with General Taur Matan Ruak he has also expressed his acceptance of the report, which he regards as very fair and balanced.
 
“F-FDTL soldiers are now studying the report, in groups, and the order from their leadership is that that they should analyze the report with serenity, with courage and humility, draw lessons from our mistakes so our defence force can recover its past glory and prestige.”
 
For further information please contact::
Joel Maria Pereira
Information Officer
Gabinete Primeiru Ministru
Email: riko_joel@yahoo.com
Telephone: +670 7254740
 
Ivana Belo
Information Officer
Gabinete Primeiru Ministru
Email: unugina2004@yahoo.com
Telephone: +670 724 3559.
 
Julian Swinstead
Communications/Media Advisor
Office of the Prime Minister
Email: jswinstead@hotmail.com
Telephone: +670 732 7776.