Dili, May 14, 2025 (Média Democracia) – The Non-Governmental Organization Hali Ba Dame (HABADA) held a press conference on traffic accidents in Timor-Leste, emphasizing the urgent need for a national and multi-sectorial response. The press release was conducted at the HABADA building in Golgota, Dili.
Executive Director Abel Amaral stated that HABADA, as a Non-Governmental Organization working on human security issues in Timor-Leste, held this press conference to address traffic accidents that occurred from January to May 2025.
“We are deeply concerned about the rising number of road accidents in Timor-Leste, which continue to result in loss of life, serious injuries, and substantial material damage. According to the most recent data released by the National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL), 90% of road accidents are caused by human factors, 5% by vehicle-related issues, and 5% by poor road conditions,” said Executive Director Abel Amaral.
He further explained that human factors contribute to the majority of road accidents, including risky behaviors such as driving under the influence of alcohol, speeding, using mobile phones while driving, careless overtaking, ignoring traffic rules, and failure to use helmets or seatbelts.
“HABADA believes these causes are preventable and calls on the relevant state authorities to take immediate and coordinated action to implement and strengthen existing traffic laws, so that in the future we can normalize and better control these issues,” he added.
He pointed out that vehicle conditions and road infrastructure also play a significant role in road safety risks. The absence of regular technical inspections, the circulation of vehicles in poor mechanical condition, and inadequate road infrastructure, including potholes and lack of proper signage, contribute to the problem.
“Insufficient lighting increases the daily risks for drivers, especially pedestrians. There is an urgent need for substantial public investment in the rehabilitation and maintenance of roads in the capital Dili and across the municipalities,” he continued.
He emphasized HABADA’s strategic recommendations based on field monitoring and analysis of official data. These include strengthening civic education and road safety campaigns, particularly targeting youth, schools, universities, and professional drivers.
“We call for the revision and effective enforcement of national traffic laws and regulations to ensure that repeat offenders are held accountable. In addition, mandatory technical inspections for all vehicles should be implemented, with special attention to public and private transportation,” he stated.
He highlighted the need to prioritize investment in improving road infrastructure, particularly urban and main national roads. A national database on road accidents should be established to support evidence-based policymaking. Mechanisms should also be created to support victims and families affected by traffic accidents, including psychological and social assistance.
“HABADA stresses that road accident prevention must be treated as a national priority and a shared responsibility of all sectors of society and government institutions, citizens, the private sector, civil society organizations, and international partners,” he emphasized.
He noted that road safety must become an urgent priority and a sustainable commitment involving education, law enforcement, and infrastructure development.
He further explained HABADA’s readiness to work collaboratively with all relevant stakeholders to reduce the number of road accident victims and ensure a safe environment for everyone in Timor-Leste. According to accident data collected by HABADA in Dili between January and May, there were 8 individuals seriously injured, 91 with minor injuries, and 25 people lost their lives due to traffic accidents.
Report: Nelfiano
Photo: Nelfiano