About
José Maria de Vasconcelos, known as Taur Matan Ruak, is an East Timorese politician. He served as the fifth president of East Timor from 2012 to 2017 and as the ninth prime minister from 2018 to 2023. Ruak played a significant role in East Timor's struggle for independence and has been a prominent figure in the country's political landscape.
Career Timeline
Falintil Commander
Commander in the East Timorese resistance movement.
Commander of F-FDTL
Served as commander of Timor Leste Defence Force.
Elected President
Elected president of East Timor.
End of Presidency
Completed his term as president.
Prime Minister of East Timor
Became Prime Minister of East Timor.
Steps Down as Prime Minister
Ruak hands over power to Xanana Gusmão after election
Influential Statesman
An important figure in East Timor's political landscape.
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Last updated: February 25, 2026