ABSTRACT
The restoration of Timor-Leste's political independence on 20 May 2002 marked the beginning of a genuine national self-rule. It built the foundations for an independent nation, based on the principles of democracy, where the people hold sovereign power to determine their own destiny. The Timorese people had acquired freedom to govern themselves. The Timorese responded to the offer of external support with respect towards the international community. On 27 September 2002, Timor-Leste was admitted as the 191st member of the United Nations. As the first act of national governance, the government wanted to strengthen the core administrative structures critical to Timor-Leste's viability and political stability. The development of the East Timor Police Service (ETPS) received first priority because of the importance of law enforcement and maintenance of security. During the initial period of national governance, several security- and justice-related incidents began to divide the state institutions. The taxation bill placed the President against the government and parliament.
