Proclamation of Independence Day (Timor-Leste)

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Proclamation of Independence Day in Timor-Leste is a national holiday celebrated every year on 28 November. It remembers when Fretilin unilaterally declared Timor-Leste’s independence from Portugal on 28 November 1975, with Xavier do Amaral as President and Nicolau Lobato as Prime Minister. A few days later, the Balibo Declaration urged Indonesian annexation, and on 7 December 1975 Indonesia invaded, leading to 24 years of occupation. The proclamation also declared the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, anti-colonialist and anti-imperialist.

Since 2005, Proclamation of Independence Day has been an official national holiday. Celebrations include government ceremonies, a flag-raising, and the national anthem, with military parades. Students, civil servants, and others participate in ceremonies at public or private places.