Silva, a popular head of National University of Timor-Leste’s Social Science Faculty and long-term independence and rights activist, will run as an independent candidate.

" The main objective of my candidacy is to motivate the young generation as I see that the state will only stand strong if its youth can apply discipline to their character and have space to be part of serving the state and its people,” Silva told the Independente.

Silva then went on to justify his candidacy, saying his work and political activism demonstrates “good leadership” and that he is “well prepared for the role.”

Silva also said he his is running to deliver social assistance, support the environment and develop the country’s economy.

Silva will need to get support from each municipality to have his candidacy formally recognised. 

Silva and the East Timor Student Solidarity Council (ETSSC) were awarded the Student Peace Prize of 1999 for their nonviolent struggle for independence from the brutal Indonesian occupation.

ETSSC was founded by da Silva as a way for Timorese students to participate in the ongoing struggle for democracy and independence.