On August 24, 2024, the Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice, Virgílio da Silva Guterres, ‘Lamukan,’ addressed a regional seminar in Oé-Cusse titled “Listening to Oecusse People’s Voice on Land Rights in Naktuka.” The seminar aimed to inform the public about the ongoing land dispute and its potential impact on the community. The Ombudsman spoke on the “Provedoria dos Direitos Humanos e Justiça’s (PDHJ) Perspective on Human Rights Violations Related to the Naktuka Case.”
During the seminar, the Ombudsman emphasized that any political decision regarding Naktuka must prioritize the economic, social, and cultural rights of the Naktuka people. He asserted that negotiations with Indonesia over the border demarcation should be based on these rights.
“The colonial powers historically demarcated borders based on rivers and mountains, disregarding the people. Now, as a democratic state, Timor-Leste must ensure that our people’s aspirations guide political decisions on border markings,” stated Ombudsman Guterres.
The Ombudsman further highlighted that the issue of Naktuka extends beyond local or regional concerns, representing a national challenge. He emphasized the unity of Timor-Leste by invoking the words of President Nicolau Lobato, who championed national unity. “As Nicolau Lobato once said, from Lautem to Oé-cusse, and from Jaco to Ataúro, Timor-Leste is one country and one people. Our borders should reflect this unity, and the area of Naktuka is an integral part of our unified nation,” the Ombudsman stated.
He also stressed that decisions regarding the land, even as small as one or two meters, are state matters. Such decisions involve the Government, the President, the National Parliament, and the judiciary. The Ombudsman called for public participation in these processes.
Representatives at the seminar, including National Parliament Deputy Joaquim dos Santos Boraluli and former Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri, echoed the sentiment that the struggle for Naktuka is a national issue, not confined to the people of Oé-Cusse alone.
The seminar concluded with a joint statement signed by various groups, including the Affected Community of Naktuka, community leaders, university students, civil society organizations, and Oé-Cusse youth. The statement affirmed the constitutional mandate of Timor-Leste’s 100% sovereignty over Naktuka and their determination to protect the 270 hectares of land in dispute.
The seminar took place at the Nunbei Oé-Cusse Parish Hall and was organized by the Rede Ba Rai in collaboration with regional and national civil society organizations, including local farming communities.
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