Dili, December 3, 2025 (Média Democracia) – The Chief of the Civil House, Jesuína Maria Ferreira Gomes, presided over the Opening Ceremony of the Promotion of Talents of People with Disabilities, organized by the Timor-Leste Disability Association (ADTL), at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace in Dili. The speech, delivered on behalf of the President of the Republic, José Ramos-Horta, was accessed by Média Democracia through the President’s official page this week.
As part of the 2025 International Day of People with Disabilities celebration, the Chief of the Civil House delivered the official speech of the President, aligning with the UN theme: “Building an inclusive society for persons with disabilities to advance social progress.”
The President called on Timor-Leste to move toward a model that ensures autonomy, dignity, and full participation for people with disabilities, reducing excessive dependency on assistential support.
The President emphasized that the objective is not merely to provide subsidies, but to create conditions that allow citizens with disabilities to live independently of others.
“To break systemic barriers, we must free them from obstacles so they do not overly depend on parental strength, nor on the Government or other national authorities,” the President affirmed.
The speech also highlighted the positive experiences of Timorese Paralympic athletes who have witnessed accessible cities abroad. In this context, the President urged local authorities and municipalities to adopt similar standards to ensure greater safety and mobility, particularly in Dili.
The President further reaffirmed Timor-Leste’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities (UNCRPD), emphasizing that this commitment must translate into concrete actions that ensure civic participation and protection against discrimination.
Continuing the speech, the Chief of the Civil House conveyed the President’s gratitude to key partners, including the Government of Australia, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Ministry of Social Solidarity and Inclusion (MSSI), for their ongoing support to ADTL. Also delivered a motivating call to all sectors of society, from municipalities to private companies, to promote an inclusive environment where people with disabilities can live as happy, active, and productive citizens.
Reporter: Nelfiano
Photo: Media PR