On the streets of Dili, which is set to become Asia's newest capital city, days passed last week with a terrifying regularity. Mornings dawned in a foreboding calm. With the heat of midday, rumors flew--of thugs gathering, forming roadblocks, seeking those who support independence for the half-island of East Timor. By late afternoon shots were heard. At nightfall, streets were empty; most citizens stayed close to home.
Fear paralyzed much of East Timor during the week after its citizens voted to secede from Indonesia--a 99% turnout of those eligible. With nearly 80% casting ballots in favor of independence on Monday, the...
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