Timor-Leste: Student protest planned in Díli October 29

Event

The Timor-Leste Students Movement (MUTL) has received permission to stage a protest on Monday, October 29. According to the US Department of State, the demonstration will take place in front of the Parliament building in Díli. A heightened security presence is expected around the demonstration.

Context

The group, which also received permission to organize on October 26, is protesting the purchase of government vehicles for Members of Parliament, claiming that the current fleet of vehicles is in "good condition." In August 2017, hundreds of students staged similar demonstrations, forcing the government to postpone its plans to purchase a new fleet of vehicles for parliamentarians. Protesters threw stones at passing vehicles and clashed with security forces in previous protests.

Advice

Individuals in Díli are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.