He became
acting president of East Timor after President
José Ramos-Horta was injured in an
attack on his home on 11 February 2008. As acting president, he proclaimed a two-day
state of emergency on 12 February. After his return from Portugal, the president of National Parliament,
Fernando de Araújo, took over presidency on 13 February. During his time in office, he fought for greater efforts to combat poverty. According to
OECD and
WBG living standards in the country ranged from decent to below average. ==Honours==