The General Secretary of the National Congress for Timorese Reconstruction (CNRT) had been appointment a member of parliament in the same week he was seen leaving on a VIP aeroplane from Nicolo Lobato airport in Dili.

The high court investigation has been repeatedly delayed, with Lay missing three court summons because he was receiving medical treatment in Singapore.

Lay’s departure from Timor-Leste came as the former Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture had insisted he would  cooperate with the court.

"I will be examined by the Public Prosecutor whenever it is necessary…..whether (I have been) wrong or right will be determined in court,” Lay said in parliament last Monday.

Timor-Leste’s commentators have suggested that Lay’s behaviour sets a dangerous precedent for accepted behaviour of national leaders.

The Independente has called on the CNRT party to respond and ensure its members set a “moral and ethical” example for people of Timor-Leste.