Protests in Timor-Leste have escalated as demonstrators continue to rally against a controversial plan to purchase new vehicles for members of parliament. The unrest, which has seen clashes with police in the capital city of Dili, has drawn significant public attention as approximately 2,000 protesters expressed outrage over the proposed procurement of Toyota Prado SUVs for each of the 65 MPs.
On March 5, 2024, the situation turned violent when protesters set a government vehicle ablaze near the parliament building and clashed with police, who responded with tear gas. This confrontation followed an earlier protest on March 4, where demonstrators also voiced their discontent regarding the decision. Protesters have vowed to maintain their demonstrations until the vehicle acquisition plan is officially revoked.
Domingos de Andrade, a 34-year-old activist, stated, “We want the decision to purchase the car to be cancelled. This decision needs to be taken by the president of the national parliament.” Protesters carried banners demanding authorities to “Stop thieves,” reflecting deep-seated frustration over perceived government extravagance.
In response to the escalating tensions, José Ramos-Horta, the President of Timor-Leste, urged protesters to refrain from violence. He emphasized the need for peaceful expressions of dissent during a press conference on March 5. The protests have gained momentum, with political parties, including the National Congress for Timorese Reconstruction and the Democratic Party, pledging to ask parliament to reconsider the plan. These parties had previously approved the budget for 2025, which allocated funds for the vehicles.
Critics argue that the decision to provide luxury vehicles for lawmakers does not align with the public interest, especially in a nation grappling with significant issues such as high inequality, malnutrition, and unemployment. Timor-Leste, which gained independence from Indonesia in 2002, continues to face economic challenges, heavily relying on oil as a primary revenue source.
The unrest in Timor-Leste has emerged against the backdrop of similar frustrations in the region, notably a recent incident in neighboring Indonesia, where protests erupted following public outrage over police conduct. The discontent in both countries highlights widespread dissatisfaction with government spending priorities and the perceived disconnect between lawmakers and the citizens they represent.
As protests continue, the future of the proposed vehicle plan remains uncertain. Activists and political leaders are calling for a reassessment of governmental expenditures, urging politicians to prioritize the needs of the populace over personal privileges. The coming days will be crucial in determining the outcome of these demonstrations and whether the parliament will respond to the growing demands for change.
