Dili, May 19, 2025 (Média Democracia) – In an interview with youth from the resistance movement and a parishioner of Letefoho, José Foka declared that Region Four also contributed to the struggle, particularly through the role of Father Domingos da Silva Soares, known as Father Domingos Maubere, who was active during the resistance period and recently concluded his earthly pilgrimage this month.
He stated that as a young person involved in the resistance during the fight for self-determination, they always stood together to confront the enemy. During that time, Father Domingos, widely known as “Maubere,” was seen as a fearless young Timorese who stood firm in the fight for independence.
“Back then, we were united in the struggle, and we gained many experiences from Father Maubere. He inspired all the youth of Timor-Leste both those in the resistance and the intellectuals to remain firm and continue the fight. We, the 12 November resistance youth, some of us ended up in prison, others died, and some of us survived because we had the courage that came from Father Maubere’s words,” said resistance youth José Foka.
He went on to express hope that in the future, a new leader will emerge to follow in Father Maubere’s footsteps, to carry forward and transform his ideas into continued inspiration for the youth. He emphasized that young people must be brave and committed to national development in Timor-Leste.
“Our state and the Catholic Church truly need a leader like Father Maubere, with his accumulated character and qualities. That’s why I can say Region Four stands firm, also because of Father Maubere’s legacy. He played an extraordinary role in our national liberation. On 12 November, when Region Four was reactivated, our leaders like Xanana, Nino Konis Santana, and Father Maubere gathered to discuss Timor’s future. The unique role of the Church was to free the people together with the resistance leaders, especially after the 1980s, when he returned from Portugal and served as parish priest in Viqueque Municipality,” said the resistance youth.
He highlighted that Father Domingos Maubere was always committed and consistently reminded young people about the importance of friendship, unity, and responsibility. Father Maubere understood that Timorese youth were courageous and bore a significant responsibility in building the nation.
Report: Domingas
Photo: Domingas