Indonesian President Rejects Delay in East Timor Autonomy Ballot

Strategic Insights -

Indonesian President B.J. Habibie has expressed disapproval of a two-week delay in the United Nations-sponsored autonomy package in East Timor, citing concerns about preparing for his accountability speech in the upcoming general session of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR). The original vote was set for August 8, but UN Secretary General Kofi Annan has announced a delay, with a possible new date ranging from August 21 to 22. Presidential aide Dewi Fortuna Anwar emphasized that President Habibie will not accept the vote if it is delayed beyond August 21, as it would interfere with his accountability speech.

Key Takeaways:

  • Indonesian President B.J. Habibie has urged UN Secretary General Kofi Annan to conduct the direct ballot on the autonomy package in East Timor by August 21, as he will be too hurried to prepare for his accountability speech in the upcoming general session of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR).
  • Annan has announced a two-week delay in the autonomy ballot, citing security and logistical concerns, but did not specify an exact new date.
  • Presidential aide Dewi Fortuna Anwar stated that President Habibie wants the vote to be carried out on August 21, as he respects those who would like to attend church on Sunday (August 22).
  • The direct ballot in East Timor will allow the territory's people to choose between autonomy within Indonesia or total independence.
  • The Indonesian government has announced that it will grant East Timor independence if the people reject Indonesia's offer of a wide-ranging autonomy.
  • East Timor has been a part of Indonesia since 1976, but the move was never recognized by the United Nations, which still considers Portugal as the administering power.

Statistics:

  • The original vote was scheduled for August 8.
  • The common date for the possible new vote ranges from August 21 to 22.
  • The Indonesian government has announced that it will grant East Timor independence if the people reject Indonesia's offer of a wide-ranging autonomy.

Sources:

  • XINHUA
  • COMTEX (http://www.comtexnews.com)