Ermera, 10 August 2024 —Deputy Ombudsman for Human Rights Maria Marilia da Costa represented the Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice (PDHJ) at a seminar titled “The Role of the Ombudsman on Human Rights Issues Related to Victims of Human Rights Violations from 1974-1999.” The event, organized by the family of the late Bosco Fernandes da Silva, took place in Hatulia A, Ermera Municipality.
In her address, Deputy Ombudsman da Costa emphasized the profound impact of the struggle for independence. “Our nation’s freedom was not won without immense sacrifice—many people died, leaving behind their families and loved ones,” she said. “When we speak of victims, we must focus on their suffering and needs, irrespective of their past affiliations or their families’ involvement in human rights violations.”
She further highlighted the state’s obligation to provide reparations to victims. “The state must establish frameworks and programs to offer restitution or reparation to those affected,” she added.
The PDHJ, as an independent body, is tasked with addressing citizens’ grievances against public authorities to ensure legal compliance and justice, as outlined in Article 27 of the Constitution. The Constitution of Timor-Leste upholds human rights principles, including fundamental rights such as universality, inalienability, and interdependence.
Deputy Ombudsman da Costa also participated in a memorial event on August 9, 2024, where the urn monument of Bosco Fernandes da Silva was inaugurated. Fernandes da Silva was shot by the Indonesian military on January 1, 1983, in Hatulia A. The ceremony was attended by the PDHJ, the Victims Association 1974-1999, the Chega National Center (CNC), as well as various local officials, students, and families of victims.
“The PDHJ remains committed to receiving and addressing complaints from any citizen, individual or collective, who feels their rights have been violated,” Deputy Ombudsman da Costa concluded.
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