The South African Government is alarmed and deeply concerned about the continuing escalation in violence in East Timor since the United Nations announced the results of the popular consultation process.
In the poll, the people of East Timor overwhelmingly rejected the proposed special autonomy and expressed their desire to begin a process of transition towards independence.
In terms of the New York Accord of 5 May 1999, the Government of Indonesia continues to be fully responsible for the maintenance of law and order in East Timor in the post-ballot period. Accordingly, the South African Government calls on the Indonesian Government to protect the people of East Timor. The immediate return of peace and stability to East Timor is in the longterm interests not only of the East Timorese but of all the people of Indonesia.
All ten South African volunteers attached to the United Nations Assistance Mission in East Timor(UNAMET), including Judge Johan Kriegler, who was one of the UN Commissioners, are safe and have left Dili, the capital of the East Timor.
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
Pretoria
6 SEPTEMBER 1999