Born: 28 November 1959, Timor-Leste (East Timor)
Died: NA
Country most active: Timor-Leste (East Timor)
Also known as: Mana, Micato or Mikato, Beta Mau
Maria Domingas Fernandes Alves, known by the nickname Mana Micato” or “Mikato” and resistance name Beta Mau, was born on November 28, 1959, in Laclo, Manatuto, East Timor. Her father played a significant role in Portuguese Timor’s politics during the Indonesian occupation. Alves attended Liceu Dr. Francisco Machado in Dili and later married Jacinto Alves, with whom she had five children.
During the Indonesian occupation (1975-1999), Alves emerged as a key leader in the resistance, particularly in Laclubar and Laclo. She actively participated in the Organização Popular de Mulheres Timorense (Popular Organization of East Timorese Women) and, along with her husband, faced arrest in 1978.
Post-independence, Alves contributed to the establishment of the women’s rights organization FOKUPERS in 1997 and played a role in the 1999 independence referendum. Her political career saw her involved in various advisory roles, promoting gender equality. She served as Minister of Social Solidarity from 2007 to 2012.
Despite facing a proposed appointment as Minister of Defence and Security in 2012, Alves declined, citing opposition from President Taur Matan Ruak. Notably, in 2005, she was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.
Recognizing her contributions, on November 28, 2006, Alves received the Nicolau Lobato Order for her significant role in East Timor’s liberation. In 2015, she was appointed as a commissioner of the Civil Service Commission. Maria Domingas Fernandes Alves stands as a resilient advocate for women’s rights and a pivotal figure in East Timor’s struggle for independence.