SPDC’s political road map : The roles of the NLD and ethnic nationalities

DVB ( September 10,2003 )

The SPDC seems to want to re-modify the road map and the generals are likely to discuss among themselves how to proceed. Therefore, they keep no time frame because they are likely to face difficulties. They will keep on adapting and modifying and take their time.

Nothing will work out without the NLD’s involvement whether they say it clearly or not. They have to consult with the NLD. The NLD has to be there. All the ethnic nationals must be involved. During the last National Convention no other ethnic nationals were allowed to be involved except the Shan. 5 Mon representatives were elected. 6 Chins were elected. 2 Arakans were elected. The Kachin, the Karenni, the Karah and the Karen were elected but those people were no included.

They only invited six Shan parties, the NLD related to Shan State and the NUP, the Karen and Myo Khami to draft the basic constitution of Burma. Where were the remaining ethnic representatives who were elected in the election?

According to edict 1/90 only those who were elected must draft the constitution. Things can’t be solved with the NLD only or without the NLD. The participations of the ethnic nationals are essential. Both the NLD and ethnic nationals must sit down and discuss with the SPDC.

If we attend the convention without them changing the way they choose the attendants for the National Convention, the people who elected us will blame us. If they don’t change, we won’t be able to attend. That is the real situation. We put forward our proposals already. If we attend the convention, the people will blame us. We will be the culprits.