Dili, June 25, 2026 (Media Democracia) – President José Ramos-Horta says that Former President Francisco Guterres “Lú Olo” is a huge loss for Timor-Leste, because he was a veteran, political leader and national hero who dedicated his life to the liberation struggle and the development of the State of Timor-Leste.
He made this statement after paying tribute to the late Francisco Guterres Lú-Olo at his residence in Farol, Dili, where family, political leaders and many people gathered to give their final respects to the former Head of State.
“We lost a fighter, a veteran of 24 years of struggle, a politician and a hero who served the State. He played an important role in the armed struggle, in political leadership and in the maximum leadership of FRETILIN inside the country. The late Francisco Guterres Lú Olo’s path of service to the nation was complete through the important positions he held during his life. He was elected President of the Constituent Assembly, then became President of the National Parliament and finally President of the Republic.” said President José Ramos-Horta, at the Farol Residence Dili (23/6/26).
The President said Lú Olo is not just a loss for FRETILIN, but a huge loss for national leadership and for the entire State of Timor-Leste.
“This loss is not only for FRETILIN leadership. This is a huge loss for the nation and the State of Timor-Leste. The legacy and political heritage that Lú Olo leaves behind will continue to inspire the Timorese people, especially the new generation, to keep working for peace, freedom and democracy. His legacy will inspire all the people, the youth and political leaders to continue what historical leaders like Nicolau Lobato and others started.” said Ramos-Horta.
The President also stressed the importance of the State taking care of the family left behind by the late Francisco Guterres Lú Olo, especially his wife and children.
“The Government and State institutions will look at the legal mechanisms that already exist or create new measures to guarantee dignified support for the family of a national leader who gave his great contribution to the country and people.” he said.
On this occasion, Ramos-Horta also recalled his visit to Malaysia a few weeks ago when he visited the late Francisco Guterres Lú Olo in hospital. According to him, when he arrived at the hospital, he spoke with former First Lady Cidália Lopes Nobre Mouzinho Guterres, because Lú Olo was in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and receiving treatment for pneumonia.
“He was already in the ICU with pneumonia. I just said that I came to visit him, but I didn’t talk about his clinical condition because that’s not my competence. The doctors have the responsibility to say.” he said.
Ramos-Horta reaffirmed that throughout all this time he has had great respect for Lú Olo because of his role in the liberation struggle, service to the State and dedication to the Timorese people.
Report By: Tomás dos Santos
Photo By: Tomás dos Santos