Major General Timur has been leading FFDTL since 2011, with his mandate set to end October 6 2017. To date the President of Republic has not nominated a replacement.

Under Timor-Leste law the 65-year old has reached retirement age.

Joao Almeida, from Fundasaun Mahen, said Timur had fulfilled the maximum two period term in the position, and called on the new government to take on the issue.

Almeida warned of growing insecurity among public over the lack of clarity over who would lead important defense and security issues.