Timor-Leste Approves Roadmap for Supreme Court Establishment

On July 25, 2025, the Government of Timor-Leste approved a comprehensive roadmap for establishing the Supreme Court of Justice. Presented by Minister of Justice Sérgio Hornai during a Council of Ministers meeting, the plan outlines key steps and actions required to fully set up the Supreme Court.

Key Components of the Roadmap

The roadmap includes:

• Allocation of necessary funds in the 2026 State Budget.
• Creation of a Recruitment and Selection Committee to appoint members to the Selection Jury.
• Selection and appointment of Supreme Court counselors and the President.
• Preparation of a legal framework to formalize the court’s establishment.

Timeline and Objectives

The plan sets firm deadlines, aiming to complete major steps by the first half of 2026, allowing the Supreme Court of Justice to become operational by June 2027. Currently, the Court of Appeals operates temporarily as the Supreme Court of Justice, integrating the Court of Auditors and fulfilling constitutional, administrative, fiscal, and superior justice functions until the Supreme Court is fully established.

Implications for the Judicial System

The establishment of the Supreme Court is a significant step in strengthening Timor-Leste's judicial system, ensuring the separation of powers, and enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of judicial processes.

For more detailed information, refer to the original article on TATOLI's website.