Dili, June 22, 2026 (Media Democracia) – Acting Prime Minister, Mariano Assanami Sabino, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister Coordinator for Social Affairs and Minister of Rural Development and Community Housing, on behalf of the RDTL Government declared national mourning for the passing of Former President of RDTL and President of FRETILIN Party Francisco Guterres Lú-Olo, who passed away in Malaysia.
“Last night we heard news that made all of us very sad, we lost a fighter who breathed his last in Malaysia. We all feel the loss of our compatriot, our comrade and our commander and the Government, with the ministers’ leadership, has ordered the arrangement of a special plane that will arrive here tomorrow.” Said Acting Prime Minister Mariano Assanami
The Acting Head of Government, representing the 9th Constitutional Government, expressed deep condolences to the big family of the FRETILIN party and the people of Timor-Leste.
“We all feel the loss and all of our prayers are important, courage to the children and family to stay strong, keep studying and learning, and keep following in their father’s footsteps. Courage to the family and may all our prayers accompany Brother Lu-Olo’s soul to God’s side.” Said Assanami
The II Deputy Prime Minister informed that the government will charter an Aero Dili plane for a special flight for the Former President and his family only.
“We will use an Aero Dili plane but this one is specially chartered where no one else will board the plane except the family together with the body.” He said
On this occasion, the Ministry of National Liberation Combatants Affairs, Gil da Costa Monteiro “Oan Soru” felt the loss of a leader he fought alongside for 24 years.
“As veterans we feel the loss of a leader, a leader who fought for 24 years together with his people and never bowed down to the invaders’ politics until Timor-Leste’s independence. We see that the 24 years of independence restoration correspond to the 24 years of liberation struggle or struggle for the homeland that he has now left us.” Said Minister Oan Soru
Gil Oan Soru said, Lú-Olo suffered from illness and went for treatment in Malaysia for over 3 weeks, and tomorrow will mark a full month of treatment there.
“Brother Lu-Olo passed away while he was suffering from illness and seeking treatment; tomorrow will mark a full month since he left Dili on 23 May and last night we heard different news. This is destiny.” He said
The Veterans Affairs Minister asked the family, especially the Former President’s wife, not to think too much because the state has a moral duty to be responsible.
“Sister Sidalia, don’t think too much because the state has a moral duty and as a ministry we have full responsibility that tomorrow will accompany Brother Lu-Olo’s body to the airport and take it to his residence.” He added
This government official will go to the Former President’s residence to give some instructions at the Farol residence.
Reporting: Estefania
Photo: Estefania