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Brigadier-General Taur Matan Ruak believes commission report
'fair and balanced', 18 October 2006
"As Prime Minister, Defence Minister, and as an individual,
I share with President Xanana Gusmáo and with the President
of the National Parliament Francisco Guterres 'Lu-Olo' the same
views expressed in our joint statement, and I quote:
The impartial and independent manner in which the commission
undertook its work, in accordance with international standards,
is commended. The wise manner in which the commission guided itself
in their analyses by adopting the standard of 'reasonable suspect'
is singled out. This implies that our courts will have to take
on the responsibility to undertake further investigations and
also the responsibility to prosecute.
We call upon the entire civil society and the professionals of
the media to adopt a positive behavior by also committing themselves
to assist stabilizing the already difficult situation, particularly
in the capital of the city.
We call upon all groups that continue to be involved in violence
to put an end to such violent actions. We cannot live eternally
under this climate of continued disrespect for the lives and goods
of the others.
"We must leave it to the judicial system to take the steps
that they deem necessary in regard to the recommendations of the
commission of inquiry.
"I have spoken with the Chief of the Armed Forces of Timor-Leste
Brigadier-General Taur Matan Ruak and I am reiterating my full
confidence in him and in his leadership. Throughout the crisis
the senior command of F-FDTL showed zeal and discipline.
"It was known to all that the leadership of F-FDTL were
not engaged in any cover up of allegations that weapons were distributed
by F-FDTL leadership to former combatants.
"When the leadership of F-FDTL received orders to disarm
all the former combatants who had received weapons, they did so
promptly.
"An international commission of verification comprising
elements from Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Portugal, the
UK and US took part in the verification of the F-FDTL armory and
verified that all weapons were accounted for and were safely locked
in the F-FDTL armory.
"On the alleged massacre reportedly perpetrated by elements
of F-FDTL, the commission found it to be baseless, and it confirms
my personal belief based on my own numerous conversations with
the so-called Petitioners and others that such massacre never
took place.
"Hence, one of the main reasons for the resentment and distrust
of F-FDTL has now been removed. And I believe this will help restore
F-FDTL prestige and credibility in the eyes of our people.
"As Minister for Defence I am pleased to say that having
spoken with General Taur Matan Ruak he has also expressed his
acceptance of the report, which he regards as very fair and balanced.
"F-FDTL soldiers are now studying the report, in groups,
and the order from their leadership is that that they should analyze
the report with serenity, with courage and humility, draw lessons
from our mistakes so our defence force can recover its past glory
and prestige."
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