Dili, Timor-Leste – Demonstrations continued in Timor-leste on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, despite Parliament’s Tuesday vote to cancel a controversial plan to purchase SUVs for its members. Protests, initially sparked by a US $4.2 million (Rp. 70 billion) budget allocation approved last year for Toyota Prado SUVs – one for each of the 65 parliamentarians – have persisted for three days, drawing thousands to the capital city of Dili.
The unrest stems from widespread public anger over the proposed expenditure in a nation where over 40% of the population lives in poverty.While Parliament unanimously adopted a resolution to halt the procurement process and focus on maintaining existing vehicles,protesters remain skeptical. “There are rumors that the cars are on their way,” said Trinito Gaio, 42, a demonstrator, to AFP. “That is why all students and I myself are here today, to ensure that my tax money does not lead to the wrong direction.”
Clashes between protesters and police have occurred over the past two days, with demonstrators throwing stones and police responding with tear gas. President Jose Ramos-Horta warned on Tuesday that “there will be no tolerance” for violence during the demonstrations. The protests coincide with Prime Minister xanana Gusmao’s trip to London for a meeting regarding land and maritime borders, with his scheduled return on September 22.
Timor-Leste, which achieved independence from Indonesia in 2002, continues to grapple with significant challenges including inequality, malnutrition, and unemployment, with its economy heavily reliant on oil reserves.The current unrest echoes similar protests in Indonesia last month,triggered by public outrage over perceived lavish spending by parliamentary members alongside issues of low wages and unemployment.
