Timor Lives!
speeches of freedom and independence

Xanana Gusmao

'Xanana is the saviour of the nation... without his iron will, total abnegation, vision and courage, Timor-Leste would not be free today.'
From the Preface by Jose Ramos-Horta, Co-Laureate of the 1996 Nobel Peace Prize

Timor Lives! Speeches of Freedom and Independence , takes us on the journey of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to nationhood, as articulated by its charismatic 'poet warrior' leader, President Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao.

Included are the President's Independence Day and Flag Raising ceremony speeches and his inaugural speech to the United Nations General Assembly. The speeches examine the creation of the Constitution and Xanana Gusmao's personal quest for reconciliation, peace, and justice in his country.

In a world increasingly beset by cultural conflicts and human rights abuses, these speeches highlight what may be achieved by the dedicated efforts of individuals, fighting for justice. They also document a rare event in the democratic world: the foundation of a nation.

At the withdrawal of Portugal from its colonies in 1974, East Timor was invaded by Indonesia . Xanana Gusmao became the revolutionary leader of his people; escaping capture by moving to the mountains where he continued to run a guerilla campaign of resistance against the invading forces. On 14 April 2002 Xanana Gusmao won a landslide victory to become President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, as it is now known.

Contents:

Message to the Nation; On the Donors; On the United Nations; On Human Rights, Reconciliation, Justice, Peace and Democracy; On Governance: Budget, Politics and Health; International Meetings; The Legislative Process; The Final Chapter - our destiny is to live in peace.

September 2005
Paperback: ISBN 1-920681-06-X
c.250 pages
230 x 150mm