Manatuto, November 20, 2025 (Média Democracia) – Representing the Presidency of the Republic, General (Ret.) Lere Anan Timur, Principal Political Advisor to President J. Ramos-Horta, delivered a powerful and emotional speech during a funeral ceremony dedicated to the remains of veterans in Manatuto on Tuesday. The information was accessed by Média Democracia from the President of the Republic’s official page on Wednesday.
Lere Anan Timur paid homage to the combatants who gave their lives for the nation’s independence, emphasizing that true heroes are those who died in the struggle.
“Those of us who are still alive are not the heroes; the true heroes are those who have already died for our freedom,” said the Representative of the President of the Republic, General (Ret.) Lere Anan Timur.
He further stated that the State has a solemn duty to ensure that these heroes receive the dignity and honor they deserve for their sacrifice. He also highlighted the long and painful journey endured by families, recalling the emotional moments when they receive the national flag as a symbol of the loss of their loved ones.
“Let this remind everyone that Timor-Leste’s independence was not a gift, but something bought with blood and suffering. Especially for the younger generation, I urge them to learn and deeply respect the history of the struggle for sovereignty and to build a future that honors the sacrifices of those before us, so that the hard-earned freedom we enjoy today will never be taken for granted,” he added.
The retired General also called for national healing and ongoing reconciliation, urging all citizens to come forward with information about the resting places of fallen combatants who remain unaccounted for, so that every hero may finally be laid to rest with dignity.
He explained that the participation of the Deputy Chief of the Civil House of the Presidency in the ceremony symbolizes a national and sacred duty as an important step in closing a painful chapter of the nation’s history and strengthening the foundation of national unity.
Reporter: Nelfiano
Photo: Media PR