Dr Mari Alkatiri says that the resignation of Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão will reinforce Timor-Leste’s national stability. Dr Mari Alkatiri, The Secretary General of the Fretelin Party held a community meeting in Oecusse in February to discuss the Special Zones of Social Market Economy (ZEESM) program. Dr Mari Alkatiri used this event to encourage the people of Oecusse to see the resignation of Prime Minster Xanana Gusmão not as a crisis but an as an opportunity for the new generation to take power and strive for strength, stability and peace for the nation.
Oecusse community members Mr Emanuel Oki, a local primary school teacher and youth representative Mr Agustinhor Elo have said that the Veterans are still united and in the wake of PM Gusmão’s resignation the young resistance groups will not let the “bad people” lead and corrupt the nation. The Veterans have committed to continue to support the development of the nation and have received some Government funding to support development initiatives. However there is still some doubt whether PM Xanana Gusmão will resign; Mr. Konstansiu Suni the sub-district administrator for Oecusse said he does not believe the PM will resign next year as announced.
Joe Feno, RCAL
Association of Community Radio Timor-Leste (ARKTL) 