PRESIDENCY AND IRI TO HOLD FORUM ON “ROAD TO DEMOCRACY

Dili, 08 March 2004
The Office of the President with the support of the International Republican Institute (IRI) will conduct a four-day Forum in Dili titled “Road to Democracy” from 10 to 13th March, 2004.

This joint initiative aims to strengthen Timor-Leste’s democratic structure by providing a platform for political leaders, the government and Timorese citizens to express their views on important national issues. Individual forums will be held concurrently during these four days to discuss the respective roles of political parties, civil society, parliament and government in a democratic society. Discussion at the forum will focus on Democracy in Timor-Leste, on the structure of the Government and how to use that structure to meet the demands of the people. Following the forum in Dili, four regional forums will be held in the districts to reinforce the discussions and outcomes of the Dili Forum.

H.E. President Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister Alkatiri, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Dr. Ramos-Horta and other key political leaders, international trainers and the diplomatic corps will all participate and facilitate in the various forums.

For President Xanana Gusmão, “This Forum will provide an important opportunity for all segments of Timorese society, from the political leaders to the average citizen, from the Government to the NGOs and media, to debate and exchange ideas on democracy, its significance to Timor-Leste in our nation-building process and the respective roles of these segments in nurturing and consolidating democracy in our young nation. This Forum will attest to our steadfast determination to ensure that our nation is built upon the foundations of democracy, tolerance, respect for human rights and the Rule of Law”.

IRI is a non-profit organization based in Washington D.C., dedicated to advancing democracy, freedom, self-government and the Rule of Law worldwide. IRI has functioned in Timor-Leste since 2000 and has focussed on strengthening the capacity of political parties and on other activities to help consolidate democracy overall in the country.

A welcoming reception will be held tomorrow night for the Forum participants. For additional information a copy of the Forum program is attached.