TTU Parliament Launches Ethics Probe into Three Members over Doctor Intimidation Case

The Chairman of the North Central Timor (TTU) Regional House of Representatives, Kristoforus Efi, has stressed that the legislative body will not protect three of its members suspected of involvement in the intimidation case against the late Doctor Icha Pakenoni. The Council’s Ethics Board has now commenced an intensive examination process. Kristoforus stated that the Ethics Board moved swiftly to follow up on the leadership’s recommendation, which was delivered on Monday, 29 June. Starting Thursday, 2 July, the Board is scheduled to convene and begin examining the complainant, the reported members, and related witnesses. “Since the leadership recommended the handling of this case to the Ethics Board, the Board has acted immediately. Starting tomorrow, they will examine the complainant, the reported members, and witnesses before the Board draws conclusions and makes a decision,” he said on Wednesday, 1 July. He explained that the primary focus of the Ethics Board is to assess whether a breach of the code of ethics was committed by the council members. However, if criminal elements are discovered during the process, the Board will refer the matter to the authorities. “The focus of the Ethics Board is on violations of the code of ethics. As for matters related to criminal acts, they will be recommended for handling by law enforcement officers, in this case, the Police,” he asserted. The investigation is expected to be completed swiftly. Kristoforus is targeting that by next week, the Board can deliver its findings to the DPRD leadership to be brought to a plenary session for announcement and determination according to the applicable mechanism. Furthermore, Kristoforus requested that the Ethics Board work transparently, accountably, and professionally. This is crucial to ensure that the decision provides a sense of justice, both for Doctor Icha’s family and the wider community. “The DPRD institution will not protect the three members suspected of involvement in this matter. We trust the Ethics Board will carry out its duties professionally. Whatever the decision, we will respect it and convey it openly to the late doctor’s family and the public,” he concluded.