Díli, 14 August 2025 – The Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice, Virgílio da Silva Guterres “Lamukan,” recently met with Chief of the General Staff of Defence Forces (CEMGFA), Lieutenant General Falur Rate Laek, at the F-FDTL General Headquarters in Fatuhada, Dili. The meeting, initiated by the Provedor, aimed to discuss cases received by PDHJ involving F-FDTL members in alleged human rights violations and to explore constructive solutions.
During the meeting, the Provedor also briefed the CEMGFA on these cases and reiterated PDHJ’s position that the involvement of F-FDTL in civilian evictions contravenes Decree Law No. 26/2009 (Statute of the Military Police), which authorizes only the Military Police to secure high-level military entities, not to intervene in civilian matters.
The Provedor also raised the importance of renewed cooperation with F-FDTL to strengthen human rights training for defence personnel, noting that the current cooperation program is scheduled to conclude in November 2026 but could be extended or updated to better meet current needs.
The CEMGFA appreciated the initiative and acknowledged the issues raised, noting that various approaches have already been undertaken to minimize such cases. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting internal discipline processes and emphasized that any F-FDTL members committing crimes or violating human rights should be held criminally accountable. Furthermore, he suggested further cooperation with PDHJ to revise the F-FDTL training manual to incorporate human rights content, reinforcing the importance of discipline, professionalism, and respect for human dignity. The Commander also highlighted the complexities within F-FDTL but reassured that the force is progressing toward full modernization, discipline, and professionalism, asking for patience and understanding during this transition.
As part of its mandate, PDHJ monitors public entities including the police, defence forces, and prison guards to ensure their conduct aligns with the rule of law and respect for human dignity. This meeting marks an important step in reinforcing collaboration between PDHJ and F-FDTL, with both institutions committed to building a modern, professional, and accountable defence force.
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