Decree-Law No. 1/2026 approving the Special Administrative Region of Oe-Cusse Ambeno.

This Decree-Law aims primarily to update and strengthen the legal and institutional framework governing the Special Administrative Region of Oe‑Cusse Ambeno (RAEOA), more than a decade after its creation. The reform seeks to correct practical inconsistencies in the existing regime and align the region’s governance model with Timor‑Leste’s broader decentralization strategy. Its main objectives include clarifying the scope of governmental supervision, redefining the autonomy of the region in administrative, financial, and patrimonial matters, and improving coordination mechanisms between central and regional institutions. The decree also establishes a five‑year transitional period focused on building institutional capacity and gradually enhancing the region’s ability to manage its own resources, ensuring a sustainable and coherent integration with the national system of local governance. In addition, it also aims to restructure the organizational architecture, management instruments, and accountability mechanisms governing RAEOA. It clearly defines the roles of regional organs—including the Authority, the President, Regional Secretaries, and the Consultative Council—and strengthens procedures for planning, budgeting, financial management, procurement, and reporting. Additional goals include enhancing transparency, reinforcing internal controls, and establishing more robust frameworks for human‑resource management, service delivery, and inter‑administrative cooperation.