IV CONSTITUTIONAL GOVERNMENT
SECRETARIAT OF STATE OF THE COUNCIL OF MINISTERS

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PRESS RELEASE

April 23, 2012

Prime Minister assumes powers of the Minister of Justice

On April 23, 2012 the Prime Minister, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, assumed the powers of the Minister of Justice, and in doing so ensured continuity in the exercise of the responsibilities of the position.

This measure follows the suspension of the Minister of Justice, Lucia Lobato, by the National Parliament, at the request of the Díli District Court because of the undertaking of legal proceedings.

It should also be noted that paragraph 3 of article 6.° of the Organic Law of the IV Constitutional Government, in accordance with the Decree-Law no.° 15/2010 of 20 October, provides that the Head of Government has the power to make decisions on matters included in the areas of responsibility of any Ministry or Secretariat of State.

This exercise of jurisdiction will extend the duration of the suspension of duties of the Minister of Justice, with the suspension to expire upon the completion of the relevant judicial proceedings.