ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts of key concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. The book aims to test arguments about semi-presidentialism and democratic performance. Using East Timor as a case, it tested whether the semi-presidential government situations generated the level of conflict that theory predicts. The book tests propositions that are associated with cohabitation, divided government and unified majority government in East Timor. It supports the criticism of semi-presidentialism that a president with executive and legislative powers alongside a prime minister and parliament introduces competing incentives into the system. Critics of semi-presidentialism suggest that young democracies may collapse under the weight of institutional conflict. The book describes political developments following President Ramos-Hortas resignation in 2012 and outline important challenges to East Timors democratic system. It serves to explain the level of conflict among political leaders, and concluded that the Timorese political elite were not a monolithic entity when East Timor adopted a semi-presidential system.
