Former Timor-Leste President Francisco Guterres, a prominent independence leader known widely as “Lu-Olo,” has died at the age of 71, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced Monday.
Guterres, who served as Timor-Leste’s sixth president from 2017 to 2022, died Sunday in Kuala Lumpur. He was one of the most influential political figures in the young Southeast Asian nation and played a key role in both its struggle for independence and the development of its democratic institutions.
Before becoming president, Guterres made history as the first speaker of Timor-Leste’s National Parliament following the country’s independence in 2002. He held the position from 2002 to 2007, helping guide the nation through its formative years as a sovereign state.
Anwar confirmed Guterres’ death in a message posted on Facebook, extending condolences to his family and the people of Timor-Leste on behalf of Malaysia.
“I am saddened by the passing of former Timor-Leste President Francisco Guterres. On behalf of Malaysia, I extend my condolences to his family and to the people of Timor-Leste,” Anwar wrote.
The Malaysian leader described Guterres as a member of a pivotal generation of national heroes who secured Timor-Leste’s sovereignty and devoted much of their lives to shaping the country’s future.
Guterres spent years in the resistance movement during Timor-Leste’s struggle for independence before transitioning into public service. He later became speaker of parliament and eventually rose to the presidency, serving as head of state during a period of political consolidation and democratic development.
“Through all of this, he remained faithful to the freedom of his people and to the building of a democratic nation,” Anwar said.
Known for his longstanding commitment to Timorese self-determination, Guterres was regarded as one of the most recognizable figures of the independence movement. His political career spanned decades and reflected the broader transformation of Timor-Leste from a resistance movement into a functioning democracy.
Anwar said Malaysia joined the people of Timor-Leste in mourning the loss of a respected statesman whose contributions would not be forgotten.
“Malaysia mourns his passing alongside the people of Timor-Leste. He will be remembered here with respect and affection,” he said.
Guterres’ death marks the passing of one of the last major figures from the generation that led Timor-Leste through its struggle for independence and into nationhood. His legacy is expected to be remembered both for his role in the resistance movement and for his efforts to strengthen the country’s democratic institutions after independence.
