Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Dili (Agenzia Fides) - The Salesian Mission in Dili has not been spared in the violence in East Timor. A gang of militia broke into the mission situated a few km from the capital in search of food. The Salesian compound is sheltering 8,000 people who fled violence in the capital. The structure is not used to such pressure and food supplies are almost finished. The missionaries are concerned for the displaced persons, many are women and children and elderly persons. Reportedly the gang attacked when Australian peacekeeping troops on guard were called elsewhere. Salesian Fr. Adriano de Jesus head of the mission tried to stop the attack but was stoned. Luckily his condition is not serious. Two men were wounded by gunshot and panic broke out among the refugees. The Jesuit House in Dili is also sheltering 700 refugees.
Despite the presence of the Australian peacekeepers violence continues in the capital. East Timor president Xanana Gusmao took command of all police and security forces in a bid to stop the fighting. Gusmao will also be responsible for coordinating the 2,500 Australian troops. The two factions of East Timor army continue to fight. The rebels have called for the resignation of premier Mari Alkatiri. Local sources say this is a struggle for power which could trigger a new period of serious instability and disorder. Conflict is widespread and people fear the infiltration of militia from West Timor anxious for revenge. Besides political reasons, malcontent is due also to poverty and unemployment.
Another problem still to be solved is national reconciliation. People are still waiting for justice after 1999 massacres in which 180,000 were killed. So far the purposely instituted Truth Commission and special Courts have brought few results and impunity continues creating an ever deeper breach in society. Recently the theft of documentation on 1999 violence from the office of the general procurator in Dili in this state of chaos showed the difficulties encountered by this process. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 31/5/2006 righe 33 parole 356)
