We are shocked and saddened to learn that Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta was shot and seriously injured in his home over the weekend. We recently interviewed President Horta for a series of case studies on conflict resolution for a campaign inspired by the feature documentary “Jimmy Carter Man from Plains.” President Horta, along with Bishop Carlos Filipe Ximenes, won the Noble Peace Prize in 1996 for their tireless, ongoing work brokering peace for the people of East Timor and advocating for the non-violent solution to the occupation of the country. His passion for justice, fiery spirit and ongoing dedication to peace are an inspiration. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.

This horrific event underscores the importance of promoting and supporting the essential work of individuals and organizations working toward conflict resolution in dangerous and volatile parts of the world.

To see President Horta’s interview click here.

To learn more about President Horta and East Timor click here.

To learn more about the current situation in Timor-Leste, visit the International Crisis Group, Amnesty International and Americans for Peace Now.

Participant Media’s Bonnie Abaunza has known President Horta for many years. Following is a blog post and personal pictures from her daughter Larissa who looked up to him as a role model and hero.

My Friend and Hero, Jose Ramos-Horta

Last night, I received news that my friend and mentor, Jose Ramos-Horta, President of East Timor, had been shot in an assassination attempt. I couldn’t believe it. I did not have any details other than he had been shot twice and had lost a great deal of blood. My mom and I were both so upset and frantic for details. How could someone from his own country, the one he had worked so hard for, want him dead!?! All he has ever wanted was for the people of East Timor to live in peace and prosper.

My experience with this inspirational leader has been amazing! Jose Ramos-Horta is like an older brother who taught me (aside from my mother) about peace, non-violence and the importance of human rights. The first time I met him (in 2001), I was a little intimidated because he is a Nobel Peace Prize winner and a very important man (after all, I was only 5). He helped his people achieve independence after 30 years of occupation and Timor is now a democracy. Jose believes in conflict resolution and so do I. He touches the hearts of everyone he meets. My Mom and I love Jose and hope he recovers soon so he can get back to being a man of peace, a dedicated leader and my mentor. He is a true role model and hero to me and many, many others.

-Larissa Peltola

(Printed with permission from Bonnie Abaunza, mother)

(Photo from left to right: President Jose Ramos-Horta, Bonnie Abaunza, Larissa Peltola)

Following Participant’s thoughtful post on East Timor President Jose Ramos-Horta, I wanted to post the video below from his appearance on Charlie Rose back in 2000 before he had gone back to work in East Timor. The first half of the show is an interview with the Nobel Peace Prize Laureate that speaks to the history of his native land and the importance of working towards peace, even when it isn’t convenient.

to keep up to date on his current situation and go below the fold to watch a video that features Amy Goodman speaking about her experience with East Timor and looks to the importance of spreading the word about where injustice is happening and those who are working to fight it.

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