East Timorians go to the polls to vote for new parliament

East Timor went to the polls to elect a new parliament yesterday as Asia’s youngest democracy struggles with economic challenges 15 years after it gained independence from Indonesia.

About 760,000 people were expected to vote for candidates from 21 parties in the first elections since UN peacekeepers left in 2012.

The ballot comes while key oil reserves are running dry and the government battles to resolve a long dispute with Australia over lucrative energy fields.

But despite fears of violence, there was no report of unrest in the run-up to the election and on election day.

“I am proud that as president I can assure that the election process went peacefully and that we have established a democratic country,” said president Francisco Guterres.

Voters turned up at polls early, eager to vote.

“I am happy I can vote today because it’s important we choose the best to lead our country,” said Mateus Araujo.

The election will determine the choice of prime minister for the former Portuguese colony.

The prime minister, who is chosen by the winning party or a coalition of parties in parliament, oversees the government and is the most influential figure in East Timor.

The presidency is a largely ceremonial role, but one that can help to keep the peace between feuding politicians.

East Timor’s two main parties, Fretilin and CNRT, are expected to perform well in the election.

But the newly established People’s Liberation Party is also predicted to become an important force, with leader and former president Taur Matan Ruak promising to tackle corruption.

The head of CNRT, Xanana Gusmao, said: “The party has high hopes that we will win.”

East Timor faces huge problems. Half of its population live in poverty and the current government is struggling to improve the livelihoods of its 1.2 million people.

Official results will be announced early next month.