Venidora Oliveira – Twenty-nine political parties have registered with the National Commission for Election (CNE) to take part in the 2017 national elections.

Commissioner Joana M. Dulce Vitor said of the 29 that have registered, three are new parties. "The new parties have fulfilled the criteria and they deserve to take part in the 2017 election," said Victor at her office in Kaikoli, Dili.

The three new parties are: A movement for free Maubere people (MLPM), Social Democratic Timorese Action Center (CASDT) and the Democratic Development Unit (PUDD).

In 2012, 26 political parties registered, with 21 forming a coalition to contest the election. She said the number may rise to 30 if the Popular Liberty Party (PLP) successfully completes the enrollment process.

Member of Parliament MP Agustino Lay said the constitution permits a group or individual to establish a political party to contest the election if they fulfill the set criteria.

"All people have the right to do that because all parties have their program for the people," said Lay, adding that it would be up to the voters to decide. He called on party leaders to focus on their policies rather than trying to insult their political rivals.

Meanwhile, resident Julia Maria Noronha said the number of political parties was too high for a small country like Timor-Leste and an unnecessary expense for the state budget. "We will spend money for nothing because people will choose one or two parties," she said.

Source: http://www.thediliweekly.com/en/news/capital/13544-29-political-parties-register-for-2017-election