An ex-militia leader yesterday appealed for a general amnesty for those who committed human rights crimes in Timor Lorosae.

Speaking at a radio-talk show in Indonesia-controlled West Timor, the former leader of the Mahidi militia, Cancio Lopes de Carvalho, said reconciliation was important for peace in Timor Lorosae. But he added the reconciliation process must end with a general amnesty for those who committed human rights crimes.

"We are ready to come to the table of reconciliation. We are ready to talk to Xanana, Bishop Belo and other leaders. But people must not be afraid. There must a guarantee that there would be no repercussions against them if they committed any abuses. We are now living under different circumstances," said Cancio.

"The road to peace is there but there must be a general amnesty for those who committed crimes in Timor Lorosae, before and after the referendum," added the ex-militia leader.

"With a general amnesty in place I think all the people of Timor Lorosae can work together to develop the country. There won't be fear haunting us and we can put the past behind."