The mean streets of Dili are now avenues of hope
Steve Bracks; 16/6/08
Thousands gathered in the square in front of the main Government buildings in Dili, the Palacio do Governo, last month to celebrate the sixth anniversary of the Democratic Republic of East Timor. There were fireworks, traditional dancing and a band. The highlight of the night was a spontaneous song by the Prime Minister, Xanana Gusmao. For many in the audience this was a night of firsts. The first time they’d seen fireworks, the first time they’d heard their Prime Minister sing, and most importantly, the first time they’d gathered en masse outside the Government buildings without fear, anger and resentment and without violence since the chaos of 2006. The AMP Coalition Government of Gusmao is only nine months old and yet in that short period I have witnessed a remarkable transition.
See: http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23868177-7583,00.html