Media Release - FRETILIN demands investigation into shooting of CNRT campaign worker

FRENTE REVOLUCIONÁRIA DO TIMOR-LESTE INDEPENDENTE

FRETILIN

Media release

3 June 2007

FRETILIN demands investigation into shooting of CNRT campaign worker

FRETILIN, the largest political party in Timor-Leste (East Timor), today demanded that a proper independent investigation be carried out in relation to the death of an armed civilian CNRT campaign worker shot by police today in Viqueque district east of Dili during campaigning for the 30 June parliamentary elections.

Dr Mari Alkatiri, the secretary general of FRETILIN, said a full investigation needs to be carried into the death of Afonso Kudalai to establish the facts and circumstances of the shooting.

Alkatiri added “that there also needs to be an inquiry to explain why a campaign team member of a political party was armed with a gun and to determine the person that provided him with that weapon.”

“The investigation needs to involve the Office of the President, the Government of Timor-Leste and the United Nations Police Force.”

Alkatiri said that his sources had informed him that the incident occurred as the CNRT party campaign team headed towards Ossu from Uatolari.

Alkatiri said “FRETILIN condemns all forms of violence and provocative campaigning. Those who are guilty of perpetrating violence must be arrested and brought to trial so that justice can be served.”

For more information, please contact:

Fretilin Media (+670) 733 5060 or email fretilin.media@gmail.com