Former Timor-Leste President Francisco Guterres “Lu Olo” Dies

Francisco Guterres “Lu Olo,” a pivotal figure in Timor-Leste's struggle for independence and its former president, has died. He passed away in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Sunday, his family announced. Guterres, who also led the Revolutionary Front of an Independent East Timor (Fretilin) party, was receiving intensive medical treatment at Prince Court Hospital.

His family shared the news with "deep sadness and immense sorrow," noting that his departure is a profound loss not only to his immediate family but also to Fretilin, his comrades in the independence movement, and all who shared his vision for a free, democratic, and sovereign Timor-Leste. Further details regarding funeral arrangements will be announced later.

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His departure represents a loss for his wife, children and the entire family, for Fretilin, for his comrades in the struggle and for all who shared with him the dream and the construction of a free, democratic and sovereign Timor-Leste.

During his presidency from 2017 to 2022, Guterres succeeded José Ramos-Horta, the current head of state. His political career also included serving as president of the Constituent Assembly and the National Parliament. In his role as president of the Constituent Assembly, he officially proclaimed the restoration of Timor-Leste's independence on May 20, 2002, and subsequently swore in Xanana Gusmão as the nation's first president.

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We ask everyone to respect the family's privacy in this difficult time, joining us in prayer and paying tribute to his memory, his legacy, and his dedication to the Timorese people.