In the course of the reflective address, Horta said that “too many” Timorese people were living in poverty “in their own country” and that “immediate change” must be taken by the government to address it.

Horta called for government leaders such as Prime Minister Taur Matan Ruak and Xanana Gusmao, to use their influence and “prioritise the harmony and stability of the state,” by opening dialogue and the exchange of ideas with opposition parties and civil society groups.

He said unity around improving basic services such as health and education and increasing allocated State funding was needed.

Horta also commented on the Prime Minister’s proposal to reshuffle his ministerial cabinet in 2019, saying he supported the move, but said the fact remained that the cabinet could not be changed until members had served a one-year term.

Over 40 per cent of Timorese people live below the national poverty line according to the latest Timor-Leste survey of living standards.

Horta’s comments come as parliament debates the 2019 general state budget. 

At the Council of Ministers meeting on 21 September, the government voted for a budget ceiling of $1.44 billion (including borrowing) for 2019.

Prime Minister Ruak has said that the main goals of the government for its five-year term were to reduce poverty by 10 per cent, create 60,000 new jobs and diversify the economy.