Gusmao is East Timor's hope

The huge win of the former resistance leader, Xanana Gusmao, in East Timor's first presidential election is no less welcome for being entirely expected. Gusmao will be sworn into office on East Timor's Independence Day, May 20, and will take power from the transitional United Nations administration, after 400 years of Portuguese colonial rule and 24 years of Indonesian military occupation.

The East Timorese deserve the congratulations and good wishes of the world for the courage and perseverance they have shown over generations of oppression and often bloody sacrifice. The elections were peaceful and orderly and the voter turnout, at well over 90 percent, would put to shame many countries in which the right to a democratic vote has long been taken for granted.

As Gusmao, who stood for the presidency only reluctantly, has himself warned there are potential dangers when guerrilla leaders go into government and popular resistance movements sweep elections. The Fretelin-dominated government party disagrees with Gusmao on many issues. Gusmao had to overcome a covert campaign by Fretelin leaders to direct votes to do Amaral and encourage voters to spoil their ballot papers.

Given his conciliatory style and his determination to avoid conflict with the government, it is likely Gusmao will be able to forge a relationship with Fretelin and the chief minister, Mari Alkatiri. He is also determined to develop a firm relationship with East Timor's former oppressor, Indonesia.

But while his instincts are admirable, Gusmao's emphasis on the need to forgive and move on may be one of the first tests of his leadership. Crimes against humanity have been committed, and true reconciliation will not be achieved without justice for the victims.

Gusmao's biggest immediate challenge, however, will be to ensure that East Timor does not become another economic basket case. More than half of the population lives below the poverty line, and at least until expected oil revenues begin to flow in a few years, the new country will be dependent on large amounts of foreign aid.

Australia has played a key role in helping to secure East Timor's independence, and will need to maintain strong diplomatic links and generous developmental assistance. As one of the few prosperous functioning democracies in the region, we have not only a responsibility but an interest in helping make democracy work in East Timor. Australians should wish Gusmao well.

-- The Age, Melbourne