Government of Timor-Leste

The President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, Taur Matan Ruak, elected this past April 16, was sworn in on May 19 in Tasi Tolu, Dili, for the 2012-2017 tenure. The ceremony took place during the celebrations of the 10th Anniversary of the Restoration of Independence, and was presided over by Fernando Lasama de Araujo, President of the National Parliament.

José Maria Vasconcelos ("Taur Matan Ruak) stated that he takes responsibility to lead a peaceful, and stable  State, and recalled his predecessor: "President Ramos-Horta devoted his life, for over forty years, to serve our People and our Country. His work and dedication are true examples that inspire us.” President Taur Matan Ruak went on to express his gratitude for “the good coordination in the transitional period which has ensured that everything has ran its course in a competent manner and in accordance with the rules in force."

Taur Matan Ruak added that it was the people of Timor-Leste themselves, and his family, which inspired him to take on the responsibility as the Head of State. "Today, as President of the Republic, I can tell everyone that I will become an example for the People, through working hard and ensuring a spirit of professional ethics and citizenship, in compliance with the Constitution and the Institutions that guarantee democracy and the rule of law towards the ultimate objective of serving the people.”

The new President appealed to everyone to "work hard and look forward.” He added, “United, we must turn Timor-Leste into a prosperous, strong and peaceful country."

At the ceremony, the outgoing President, Dr. José Ramos-Horta, awarded Francisco Xavier do Amaral, Nicolau dos Reis Lobato and Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão with the Order of Timor-Leste, which he then in turn was then awarded by the new President of the Republic, Taur Matan Ruak.

The ceremony was attended by the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Susilo Bambang Yudoyono, the President of Portugal, Aníbal Cavaco Silva, the Governor General of Australia, Quentin Bryce, the Governor General of New Zealand, Sir Jerry Matepare and the Governor General of Tuvalo, Sir Lakoba Italeli in addition to members of the Government, the Special Representative of the Secretary General of United Nations, Ameerah Haq, foreign diplomats, several religious congregations and the comunity at large.