East Timor Votes for Self-Determination in a Remarkably Peaceful Referendum

Strategic Insights -

U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan reported that over 90 percent of registered voters cast ballots in a referendum on self-determination for East Timor, a former Portuguese colony annexed by Indonesia in 1976. The voting process was remarkably free of violence, with only seven out of hundreds of polling stations being closed for up to three hours due to intimidation by militias. The referendum marked a significant step towards East Timor's independence, with a proposal for broad autonomy within Indonesia being put to the voters. If the measure is rejected, Jakarta has stated that it may grant outright independence to East Timor.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 90 percent of registered voters cast ballots in the referendum on self-determination for East Timor.
  • The voting process was remarkably free of violence, with only seven polling stations being closed due to intimidation by militias.
  • At least 13 people were reported killed in violence during the week before the election, and over 200,000 have died over the years as the Indonesian military sought to put down a separatist movement.
  • The Indonesian police were praised for their role in maintaining order during the voting process.
  • The sealed ballot boxes will be transported overnight to the provincial capital Dili for counting, with results expected within a week.
  • If voters reject the proposal for broad autonomy, Jakarta has stated that it may grant outright independence to East Timor.
  • Many Indonesians are in favor of East Timor's independence, citing the military and financial burdens of maintaining control over the territory.
  • The U.N. has passed a number of resolutions on the issue, including a 1996 resolution condemning human rights abuses in East Timor.

Statistics:

  • 90% of registered voters cast ballots in the referendum.
  • 7 polling stations were closed due to intimidation by militias.
  • At least 13 people were killed in violence during the week before the election.
  • Over 200,000 people have died over the years as the Indonesian military sought to put down a separatist movement.
  • 4,000 locally hired U.N. election officials assisted with the voting process.
  • Results of the referendum are expected to be announced within a week.

Sources:

  • United Nations
  • UPI, Aug. 30
  • COMTEX (http://www.comtexnews.com)