Dili, 29 August 2026 (Media Democracia) – Arif Abdullah Sagran has admitted his mistake and offered an apology to the people of Timor-Leste and to the heroes, regarding the statement he posted on social media with the content “Timor-Leste Suddenly Independent” which caused reactions and public concern. As a result of the post, community members and youth groups confronted him in the early hours of the morning on 29 August 2026.
Arif Abdullah Sagran made a statement through a press release, asking for forgiveness and humbling himself before the people of Timor-Leste, especially the heroes who sacrificed their lives and gave everything for this country in the struggle for Timor-Leste’s independence.
“I, Arif Abdullah Sagran, I have called you all here to convey my sincere apology for the words I posted on social media related to an interview I did several months ago. I acknowledge that the words I said were wrong and I acknowledge that those words were offensive to the people and nation of Timor-Leste.” said Arif Abdullah Sagran at his residence in Markoni, Dili.
He also clarified to the public that the statement wasn’t made with bad intention. Because of that, he asked for forgiveness from all the people of Timor-Leste, the veterans, and also the families of the martyred fighters.
“I want to clarify that it wasn’t my intention to hurt anyone. To all the people of the nation of Timor-Leste whom I love, I ask for forgiveness from all the people of Timor-Leste, from all the veterans and also from the families of all the fallen hero fighters. I ask for forgiveness once again from the entire nation of Timor-Leste, I, Arif Abdullah Sagran.” he clarified.
Reporting: Media Democracia