Aileu, March 18, 2026 – The Centro Nacional Chega! I.P. hosted a public consultation on the Timorese Reconciliation Process (PRT, in Tetum) and the Policy of Reparations at the Hall of Timor Klaran in Aileu Municipality.

During his intervention, Hugo Maria Fernandes, the Executive Director of Centro Nacional Chega! I.P. stated that the purpose of the public consultation in Aileu was to gather insights, suggestions, and recommendations from various entities. This input aims to enhance the draft of the National Policy of Reparations and the Law of Reparations, which has been developed by Centro Chega! in collaboration with its partners.

Centro Chega! I.P. conducted a Public Consultation in 2026 as part of an initiative orientation by Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão. This consultation followed discussions with the Timorese Reconciliation Process Task Force (GT-PRT, in Tetum) at Antigo Comarca Balide in Dili in 2025. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of consulting with various entities about how to approach reconciliation among the Timorese people. Recognizing the significance of this basis, Centro Chega! I.P. organized public consultations in Dili, Aileu, Bobonaro, and will also organize public consultations in Viqueque. Hugo highlighted that the consultation in Aileu was especially important, as Aileu was a center in the struggle for independence. It is also a historical site marked by many atrocities, leaving behind painful memories, scars, and wounds that continue to this day.

José Neves Samalarua, the spokesperson of the GT-PRT, explained that today marks a phase of consultation aimed at gathering opinions from those affected by the conflicts. Following this, a reconciliation process between the Timorese from 1974 to 1999 will be conducted. This effort requires sincerity, honesty, and a willingness to engage in reconciliation, as it is a crucial aspect that must be addressed in the process.

“We are Timorese. We need to acknowledge that the conditions and situations of the past played a significant role in liberating us from colonialism. However, many of us experienced situations where we harmed one another, leaving behind our family relationships, cultures, and communities. Now is the time for us to come together and reconcile,” stated the spokesperson.

In his opening remarks, Rev. Arlindo Marçal, speaking on behalf of the Vice Minister of Parliamentary Affairs (VMAP), emphasized that the people of Aileu are heroic and courageous, as demonstrated by our history—our resistance began in Aileu.

Our country, Timor-Leste, has faced conflicts throughout World War I, World War II, and from 1974 to 1999. At times, we have murdered one another, leading to numerous conflicts and too many victims, hatred, and revenge everywhere. Unfortunately, these issues continue to persist in our society. We must solve these problems through reconciliation. Additionally, reparations must be made to the victims and survivors.

The Public Consultation organized by Centro Chega! IP is crucial for gathering insights from various entities. It focuses on establishing effective reconciliation mechanisms rooted in culture and religion, fostering a spirit of reception that will create peace and stability in our country.

Rogério da Conceição, speaking on behalf of the President of the Aileu Municipal Authority, expressed his appreciation for the Public Consultation held in Aileu Municipality. He emphasized that this is an important opportunity to begin discussing the Timorese Reconciliation Process and the Reparation Policy. He encouraged everyone to participate actively and share their valuable perspectives during the activity.

“I want to congratulate you all and invite you to share your thoughts. Let’s reflect on what we achieved and received from 1974 to 1999. We come together to reconcile one another as brothers and sisters, as uncles and grandparents, and as communities within our village and municipality. Together, we are committed to bringing development into the future,” congratulated Rogério.

Jonias M. Exposto, representing the Generation of Patriots, expressed appreciation for the public consultation on the Timorese Reconciliation Process and Reparation Policy conducted by Centro Cheg! I.P., considering it as an important initial step in the Timorese Reconciliation Process.

“I agree that reconciliation is essential. It is important to discuss reconciliation with one another sincerely and without emotions. The older generation has left a legacy for the current generation to uphold. While we recall the bitter conflicts of the past, we now come together to celebrate peace,” said Jonias.

Alarico Almeida Salsinha, the Head of Leikitura Village, emphasized that past conflicts still linger in the hearts of many. Some have passed away, while others remain. Feelings of hatred and revenge can be passed down through generations. Therefore, I support reconciliation as a means to address past issues so that we can work towards mutual development in the future.

The Public Consultation was attended by representatives from various groups, including Municipal and Local Authorities, religious organizations, veterans, victims and survivors, youth, civil society organizations, resistance Organizations, the former President of the Municipal Authorities, the President of the National Liberation Combatants of Aileu Municipality, managers of the Municipal Memorial Museum, and members of the Timorese Reconciliation Process Task Force (GT-PRT). A total of 110 participants were present.

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