Dili, September 1, 2025 (Média Democracia) – Within the framework of commemorating the Popular Consultation Day, 30 August 1999–2025, marking the 26th anniversary, the HAK Association considers that it is the people who are the true owners in deciding for the State of RDTL, and no one else. Through their vote, they determined with courage that the people of Timor-Leste wanted self-determination.
HAK Director, Feliciano da Costa Araújo, stated that on this occasion to celebrate the Popular Consultation Day 1999–2025 and the 26 years of HAK Association, the organization wishes to convey a simple message: that the people are the true owners of this State and it is the people who give their mandate to the leaders who hold power.
“I want to emphasize again that in this situation, as we celebrate this Popular Consultation Day, we should reflect that it is the people who are the owners of this State. Therefore, we call on our leaders to think carefully, not only to think that people merely give their votes every five years so that leaders can govern, but after holding power they neglect their responsibilities. Thus, from HAK, once again we appeal to the people of Timor, both inside and outside the country, to open their eyes and reflect carefully when looking at the programs of political parties before you cast your votes,” said Director of HAK, Feliciano da Costa Araújo.
He further underlined that during this celebration the people of Timor-Leste, both inside and outside the country, should once again reflect that the people are the ones who decide for the State of RDTL, and no one else. It was through their vote that, with courage, they decided that the people of Timor-Leste wanted self-determination.
“On behalf of HAK Association, we want to extend our congratulations on the celebration of the 30 August Popular Consultation, when our people decided for independence. Congratulations also to the heroes who fought for our nation,” added Director HAK.
He explained that this celebration should also be a moment of reflection on the development of the country, considering that so far the economy has largely depended on petroleum revenues. Now, the question is what the State has done to develop the domestic economy.
“One of the most important sectors in our country to attract strong investment is the tourism sector. This sector must be given attention and investment, because many tourists only go to Bali, Indonesia, and not to Timor. Another important sector is agriculture, where the government needs to increase food production. In addition, infrastructure, education, and health sectors also require serious attention,” informed HAK Director Feliciano da Costa Araújo.
He reaffirmed that these three sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and social infrastructure (education and health) can be accumulated and then require major investment to drive development in the country and prepare Timor-Leste to compete with other nations. Moreover, Timor-Leste is on the verge of becoming a member of ASEAN, since it has already signed agreements with G7+, UN, CPLP, and WTO. Therefore, before fully joining ASEAN, the country must first improve economic quality.
Reporter: Domingas
Photo: Domingas