CHRONOLOGY
OF STATEMENTS BY BURMESE MILITARY SPOKESMEN ON MULTI-PARTY ELECTIONS, A NEW CONSTITUTION,
THE NATIONAL CONVENTION, TRANSFER OF POWER ETC.
The
bulk of this chronology was assembled by doing an electronic search for
“transfer of power”, “constitution”, “national convention” etc. in the archive
of “The Burma Press Summary” compiled between 1987 and 1996 by Hugh
MacDougall from “The Working People’s
Daily”(WPD) and “The New Light of Myanmar” (NLM). The archive is accessible
online at http://public.ibiblio.org/gsdl/cgi-bin/library?site=localhost&a=p&p=about&c=burmaps&ct=0 Notes by the compiler – in square brackets –
are retained. More texts are being
sought in order to complete the document. If you see any gaps, and know of
material that would fill them, please inform the OBL Librarian at darnott@iprolink.ch
References: WPD=“The Working People’s Daily”; BBC SWB=the BBC’s Summary of
World Broadcasts.[acknowledgements to Derek Tonkin who
dug up the SWB quotes] Other sources are named in full.
The sections in bold in the text below are what seemed to be most
representative of the evolving statements on these issues by spokesmen of the
Burmese military.
1988
July
1988
Ne Win's Speech (full text) to the
Extraordinary Party Congress of the
It is necessary to assess whether among the
people of the entire country, a majority is behind those lacking confidence or
a minority. As I believe that holding a national referendum on what they wish--a
one-party system or a multi-party system--would bring out the answer, I am
asking the Party Congress to hold a referendum.
If the majority want a multi-party system,
the present Constitution's provision under Chapter II, Paragraph 11 for the
sole political party leading the State will have to be substituted with wording
in consonance with a multi-party system. A suitable lapse of time would of
course be needed for convenient movement of the people, production of ballot
cards and other requirements.
Roughly said, it should be set up no later
than end of September. It should be held earlier than that if possible. If,
after the referendum more votes are for a multi-party system, elections must be
held at the earliest for a new parliament. Part[ies]
formed by bonafide citizens, organizations and
individual citizens will have to register themselves with the elections
supervisory body. Last date for registration will have to be prescribed. The
elections supervisory body should co-ordinate with the organizations taking
part to set the last date for registration and decide whether or not individual
independants should be allowed to compete. At the end
of the registration period, the elections supervisory body should co-ordinate
with the registered organizations the date for holding elections. I believe all
will be best satisfied if the date for election is set as soon as possible. The Hluttaw elected thus, can write the
Constitution and other necessary laws according to its own wishes. I
request the organizations currently taking responsibility to assert control as
much as possible to keep the country from disarray till the organizations
formed by the Hluttaw can take over.
I
request the present organizations to hand over authority without delay, if the
new Hluttaw or the organizations formed by that Hluttaw say that they are no
longer needed or continue assistance if asked to do so for some time.
If the majority of the people decide on a
single party system, the present party and organizations will have to continue
to lead in keeping with the changes made and the regulations which continue to
be accepted. I want to specially point out my role if the present party is to
continue to lead.
As I consider that I am not totally free from
responsibility even if indirectly for the sad events that took place in March
and June and because I am advancing in age, I would like to request Party
members to allow me to relinquish the duty of Party Chairman and as a Party
member. In order to do so, Paragraph 14 subpara (c)
of the Party rules will have to be amended. I request you to do so. If you do
not want to amend the rule, I request this Party Congress to treat it as a
special exemption.
Formerly, whenever I talked of relinquishing
Party chairmanship, my confidants and, colleagues prevented me and, unhappily,
I have had to stay on in this political samsara. This
time my confidants have not only consented to allow me but have also asked that
they too be allowed to leave along with me and have entrusted their
resignations to me.
They are (1) U San Yu (2) U Aye Ko (3) U Sein Lwin
(4) U Tun Tin (5) U Kyaw Win. There are others, quite
a number, who have as seniors been shouldering high responsibility, who want to
retire, leave the Party. I would like this Party Congress to accede to their
wishes to do so after transferring responsibility with the emergence of the new
Hluttaw. I want to tell those wanting to retire, to leave the Party, to tender
their letters of resignation in time while this Congress is in session.
In short, (a) I submit to this Congress to
seek the decision through a nationwide vote which the majority of the people
choose from the two, a one-party system or a multi-party system (b) if the
majority supports a multi-party system, then, as I have said before,
arrangements will have to be made in accord with the terms concerning a
multi-party system, (c) if the majority of the people support a one-party
system, those of us who want to retire, must be allowed to do so in deference
to our wishes while other remaining Party members continue to shoulder
responsibilities of State, (d) please accede to the wishes of those who want to
leave with me, (e) multi-party system or one-party system, whichever of the two
the people support, may I conclude, declaring that I shall leave the political
arena and turn away from politics.
That is what I have to say in connection with
the Congress and I have said it. However, from what is currently
happening--from what happened in Taunggyi, what is
happening in Prome--I cannot say if there is something
imitative, thinking that they could do as they like against discipline. We made
arrangements to exercise restraint so that the events of June in
What occurred in Prome
started on the 16th, and we knew it only on the 17th. When we heard it on the
17th we thought it could be controlled by the police and the council, we hoped.
As I said earlier, in what concerned preventing bloodshed, I asked that the
Tatmadaw be not used in trifling matters and that it be used only when really
necessary. I told them not to use the Tatmadaw without my knowledge. The Prome affair however did not subside but became bolder. So,
I allowed the Tatmadaw to go in yesterday.
There is what I said earlier that I would
retire from politics. Although I said I would retire from politics, we will
have to maintain control to prevent the country from falling apart, from
disarray, till the future organizations can take full control. In continuing to
maintain control, I want the entire nation, the people, to know that if in
future there are mob disturbances, if the army shoots, it hits --there is no
firing into the air to scare. So, if in future there are such disturbances and
if the army is used, let it be known that those creating disturbances will not
get off lightly…..
. (Applause) (WPD 7/24)
******************************
September
1988
Dr. Maung Maung's Address
This is the procedure required by the
Constitution, which was adopted by the people in a referendum in which some of
those who now call for changes must have participated. The
Constitution in fact "provide controls against any single person or group
from gaining and exercising absolute power," by spreading and sharing
power down to the ward and village tract level. "Can you not wait
until the people's wishes become clear and distinct...?"
He recounted the events of 1958 and 1962, and
then "laid down" eight facts: (1) We are to abide by the
Constitution, and that is why special meetings of the Party and the Pyithu
Hluttaw are being called, and why only a referendum can change the one-party
system provided by its Article 11. (2) "Please render help for enabling
those who are highly regarded by the people" to supervise the referendum
and elections. The Sangha and religious organizations
are asked to supervise rights by protecting polling booths until votes are
counted. (WPD 9/2)
*********************
Extraordinary
Party Congress
The Congress opened, with 968 of 1080
delegates (89.63%) present.
Chairman Dr. Maung Maung's address.
In his opening address, BSPP Chairman Dr. Maung Maung
said that conditions no longer permit a referendum on the one-party system.
"The people are faced with difficulties in meeting food and shelter needs.
That is why the decision to hold, as speedy as possible, general elections
under the multi-party system has been made and it is therefore evident that the
interest of the people is placed before the interest of the Party." He
spoke of the history of the Lanzin [BSPP] Party and
how it was originally a people's party. "But the weakness of the Party as
it emerged as the ruling party and grew as the ruling party [sic]. There have
been practically very few sacrifices, risks and strenuous efforts. The power
can absolutely destroy the man. When without power, it is natural that there
will be craving for power. There will be a few who do not crave for power
except for the Arahats."
"After reviewing the present disorderly
scene, he said "we should not entertain anger and prejudice nor speak ill
of politicians of party organizations that will come into being. Instead, we
must face the law of impermanence and continue the march along the Burmese way.
Truth shall prevail. Metta (loving kindness) will
overcome dosa or anger."
The Hluttaw, he said, "will be held
tomorrow and its decision is to be sought so as to change over to multi-party
democracy on experimental basis in accord with the resolution passed by the
Party Congress. Arrangements will then be made to be able to hold, within the
shortest possible time, the most just and freest general election in which
various parties can compete.
"It will be complicated and
time-consuming if elections are to be held at Hluttaw and lower levels.
Therefore only the Hluttaw is to be
elected and the forthcoming Hluttaw is to form a government. The Constitution
is then to be amended as necessary.
"The formation of commission with
personalities who are highly regarded by the people and are worthy of being on
it is to be submitted to the Hluttaw meeting tomorrow to supervise...the
general elections .... The Commission is also to seek the help of members of Sangha, students and town elders to supervise polling
booths....
"It has been a tradition among the
Tatmadaw members to vote freely on their own will in the general elections.
They will be able to uphold this tradition. The Tatmadaw would not canvass for
any party....
"The public services personnel should
act the same way.... They should be loyal only to the country and the
people."
Party General Secretary U Aye Ko justified the convening of the Congress and review the
past few months' events. Party Chairman [U Ne Win] on
July 23-25 had called for a referendum on the party system. Party delegates had
had bitter experiences with a multi-party system, and were concerned with the
priority of economic problems. But disturbances arose, political and economic,
and on Aug. 3 the Council of State proclaimed military administration in
At the 11th meeting of the Party Central
Committee on Aug. 19, the General Secretary discussed long and short-term
economic changes. Chairman Dr. Maung Maung called for
working together to bring about economic development in peace and tranquillity.
The Emergency Session of the Fourth Pyithu
Hluttaw on Aug. 19 established the Commission for Ascertaining the Desires and
Aspirations of the People, and paved the way for the Commission to seek out
public views in September and report to the regular Pyithu Hluttaw session in
October.
The BSPP Chairman addressed the nation on
Aug. 24, and said an Extraordinary Party Congress would be called to decide on
a referendum on the party system, and that the Chairman and the Central
Executive Committee would resign if the Party did not accept. If the referendum
approved a multi-party system, the Pyithu Hluttaw would enact it, and present
leaders would not run in the ensuing elections.
The Commission for Ascertaining the Desires
and Aspirations of the People was dissolved on Aug. 24, and the Council of
State solicited suggestions for members of a 25-member National Referendum
Commission. Martial law in
On Sept. 1, Chairman Dr. Maung Maung explained the Constitutional necessity for a referendum
under Article 11 of the Constitution. And the matter of the referendum needs to
be submitted to an Extraordinary Party Congress, and thus this Congress was
convened.
Congress votes. The
Extraordinary BSPP Congress then voted, "by more than 75% of the
delegates" and "decided to hold general elections under multi-party
system cancelling the proposed national
referendum on the option between one-party system and the multi-party
system." (WPD
*********************
22 September 1988: Brig Gen Khin Nyunt, Director
of Defence Services Intelligence, speaking to foreign Military Attachés
"Elections would be held as soon as law and order had been restored, and
the Defence Forces would then 'systematically hand over state power to the party which wins',
Khin Nyunt said."
BBC SWB FE/0265 i dated
*****************************
Rahans, laity and the people,
I wish to submit certain points of
clarification so that rahans, laity and the entire
people would understand the position of the Tatmadaw, and so that they would
have no misunderstanding of the Tatmadaw's intention
in connection with the prevailing situation in the country. The demonstrations
which occurred throughout the country began as a political movement in which
peaceful demonstrations were used with the aim of attaining genuine democracy.
Later, vicious and violence-prone unsavoury elements
infiltrated the movement and created violent disturbances, threats and cruelty
and other anarchistic activities resulting in conditions in which the law and
order and peace and tranquillity in the entire
country became threatened. Conditions became uncontrollable and the situation
was such that it was practically impossible to resolve matters through
political means. It was a moment of great danger for the entire nation. It was
at this point that the Tatmadaw, though realizing that it would be confronted
with many difficulties, nevertheless had to unavoidably assume the
responsibilities of the State power. It was with misgivings that the Tatmadaw
was forced to take this course of action and it is suffering much unhappiness.
Our purpose in forming the government was
merely to establish the fundimental characteristics
of a sovereign nation and expedite relations with other countries as well as
for the distribution of responsibilities. The fact that only a few persons have
been assigned a large number of portfolio responsibilities is clearly
indicative that there is no desire
whatsoever to cling on to power for a long period. I and all my colleagues, and
all Tatmadawmen most respectfully and honestly give
our word to all rahans, laity and the people that we
do not wish to cling to State power for long. As it has been stated in
Declaration No. 1/88 of the State Law and Order Restoration Council of which I
am the leader, steps have already commenced to implement the following measures
immediately:-
(a) Maintenance of law and order; prevailing
peace and tranquillity in the country.
(b) Providing secure and smooth
transportation.
(c) The State Law and Order Restoration
Council will strive for the better conditions of food, clothing and shelter of
the people and render necessary assistance to the private sector and the
cooperatives to do so.
The fourth point of the first paragraph of
our organization's Declaration No. 1/88 concerns the holding of multi party
democracy general elections. Arrangements are being made to implement this measures [sic] as soon as possible. We wish to inform all
citizens of the nation and all political parties and organizations which would
be running for elections that work has commenced on carrying out the necessary
measures. In this connection the political parties and organizations which
would be running for elections ought to be making preparations to get themselves registered according to law. It has been just a
few days since we assumed responsibilities. This being the case, we wish to
suggest that the organizations concerned maintain stable control of their own
organizations instead of making over-zealous demands at a time when conditions
have not yet stabilized.
We are Tatmadawmen.
Our organization which is made up largely of Tatmadawmen, is absolutely
loyal to the nation. We wish you to be fully convinced that we would not in any
way and under any circumstances abrogate the oath of loyalty which has been
sworn towards the nation and the people.
We wish to submit our supplications to the Sayadaws of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee that we
would most respectfully make note of the request made by the State Sangha Maha Nayaka
Committee on 20 September.
At this point I wish to say a few words about
service personnel. A service personnel who is carrying
out the duties entrusted by the State should not be under the influence of any
political party or organization. All such personnel are obligated to carry out
all responsibilities and duties which have been lawfully entrusted by any
government which comes to power and which will work for the welfare of the nation.
The prevailing situation today is that our nation has overcome a period of
disruption and has achieved a reasonable measure of stability. Reconstruction
activities are to begin as quickly as possible even as increasing stability is
achieved. We urge to join hands with us and work together so that the
multi-party democracy system for which the people have been aspiring may be
successfully established.
We wish to warn that it is important that bad
conditions do not occur again at a time when a reasonable amount of stability
is being achieved; we warn that mass looting and destruction of public
property, mills and factories by unsavourly elements
should not occur. We wish to repeat the warning that we will have to take
effective action since we cannot tolerate such mob-criminality.
As the
period for which we assume responsibility is a short one, we can provide
only limited attention to such matters as health, education and other social
activities. Long-term improvements in health, education and other social
activities are to be carried out by the
government which comes to power after the multi-party democracy general
elections.
Our Tatmadaw on its part would continue to
carry out the original duty of national defence and security and the
maintenance of law and order after handing
over power to the government which emerges after the free and fair general
elections in which the citizens of the nation would be able to exercise
their full democratic rights.
Such being the case we request all rahans, laity and the people who wish to have a multi-party
democracy and all political parties and organizations which would run for
elections to join in, and work for the quickest possible holding of a free and
fair multi-party democracy general elections. (WPD 9/24)
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
1989
February 1989
“Now what I would like to say
is that after the election, when the new government comes into power, I will
submit my report without reservation for the actions that I have taken. The happenings that occurred during my administration, whether they
were good, whether they were bad. I assume responsibility...
Q. What will you do after the elections?
A. I'll retire (laughs). Those who are still
young enough will carry on. (WPD 2/5)
****************************
March 1989
General Saw Maung, Defence Forces Chief of Staff, in a
speech on the occasion of the 44th Armed Forces Day parade:
"As conditions improve
on all fronts, genuinely fair multi-party democratic general elections will be
held nationwide except in some areas where there is no security due to
insurgency. After the necessary work has
been carried out following the elections, a new government will be formed in accordance with
the law by members of the People's Assembly elected by the people.
We hope that this new government will be able to best serve the interests of
the people as they continue to lead the country. As for members of our Defence
Forces, we will return to the barracks and continue to relentlessly to carry
out our original duties......."
BBC SWB FE/0420 B/2 dated
****************************
May
1989
Saw Maung Orders New History
The text of Gen. Saw Maung's Order is as follows: ...
12. There are many peculiar characteristics
in
******************************
June
1989
43rd SLORC Press Conference held on
"At present, we have two
constitutions in our country, that is, the 1947 Constitution and the 1974
Constitution. Of the two, the 1947 Constitution was drawn up based on the 1935
Act - the Government of Burma Act 1935 - in accordance with the Aung San-Atlee
Agreement.......The 1974 Constitution was promulgated after obtaining the
wishes of the entire people on many occasions. The difference between the two
laws has been pointed out. The elected
representatives can choose one of the constitutions to form a government, and
we will transfer power to the government formed by them. We are ready to
transfer power to the government which emerges according to the constitution.
If they do not like the two existing constitutions, they can draw up a new
constitution. Neither the Defence Forces nor the SLORC will draw up a new
constitution. The
elected representatives are to draw up the constitution. If the people approve that constitution, we will transfer power as
soon as possible to the government which emerged according to that constitution. There should be no worry about the
transfer of power. We are ever-ready to transfer power. We are just stressing
systematic transfer of power according to the law. We do not want to hold onto
power for a long time.
"Instead of making
demands on the transfer of power, political parties should be organising for elections so that they can present their
political, economic and social platforms and programme for national unity to be
carried out of they are elected. Instead of constantly criticising
the government and demanding power, they should be engaged in organisational work and presentation of their future programmes. We would
like to tell the parties not to worry about power. We will transfer power as
soon as possible to the emerging government, as explained earlier......." (BBC SWB FE/0489 B/2 dated 22 June 1989)
****************************
July 1989
Brig Gen Khin Nyunt at the 49th SLORC Press Conference
on
"Changing a country's
political and economic systems cannot be done overnight. It must be done gradually.........Please
do not ask for a dialogue, because what has to be done will be done when the
time is right. This does not mean we will not meet any political party. In Kyauktan, I said that when the time is right we will meet
political parties that do not oppose the SLORC and that will co-operate in the
holding of elections." (BBC SWB
FE/0153 B/1 and B/2 dated 20 July 1989)
**************************
November 1989
SLORC Information Committee 65th
Press Conference.
[in which the
Information Committee reaffirms earlier positions of the SLORC, as delivered by General Saw Maung,
including the pledge of
Yangon, 17 Nov[ember 1989] – The Information Committee of the
State Law and Order Restoration Council held its 65th Press
Conference with local and foreign journalists in the guest room of the Ministry
of Defence at 1pm today….
“…In clarifying the stand of the
Tatmadaw, the Information Committee said: “On 23rd September 1988,
soon after the Tatmadaw’s taking over State power,
Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Services General Saw Maung presented the
request of the State Law and Order Restoration Council…[t]he following are some
of the excerpts from his address: …
''’Our Tatmadaw on its part would continue to carry out the
original duty of national, defence and security and the maintenance of
law and order after handing over power
to the government which emerges after
the free and fair general elections in which the citizens of the nation
would be able to exercise their full democratic rights. …’
“Similarly, the Defence
Services Commander-in-Chief of General Saw Maung also mentioned the stand of
the Tatmadaw in his
address at the course conclusion ceremony of the Command and General Staff
College No. 40 training course on 10 November. He said: …
‘To summarise, the Tatmadaw will do all it can to assist
the Election Commission so that it can hold the free and fair multi-party
democracy general election. All the service personnel including the Tatmadaw
members can cast their votes on their own free will. After the election is held
according to law, State power will be
duly handed over and the Tatmadaw will steadfastly carry out its original
duties, namely:
1. to
prevent disintegration of the
2. to
prevent disintegration of national solidarity, and
3. to
ensure perpetuity of sovereignty…’”
Source: verbatim record of
the 65th SLORC Press Conference, SOAS Library.
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
1990
March
1990
Gen.
Saw Maung's Speech
Mar. 27 1990: State LORC Chairman Senior
General Saw Maung gave a major address on Armed Forces Day The following were the
principal topics covered:...
"Some say that the election is not
important but drawing the Constitution is the primary issue. Some say it is
necessary to draft a temporary constitution, to form a provisional government
to effect transfer of power and only then to take time and draw up a proper
constitution. In what ways they want to do so is up to them. The Tatmadaw has
given a promise to hold the election...."
"the party with the adequate number of representatives in the
Hluttaw can form a government; then
the remaining parties will become the opposition force. They will criticize the
actions of the government in the Hluttaw sessions. When the majority of
representatives no longer render their support, the government will fall and a
new one will have to be formed. The government will have to enact laws required
to safeguard the interests of the people,...to lay down policies relating to
the economic, social and administrative affairs. It is the duty of the
government bodies to implement their policies...." (WPD 3/28)
***********************
April
1990
Apr.
12 1990: In the course of an address to Yangon officials, State LORC Secretary
(1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt said:
"The
party that wins in the 27 May elections will have to form a government. Only if
a firm Constitution can be drawn up and a government formed in accordance with
it that [sic] will the government be a strong one. Only a strong government can
lead the State for a long time. The Law and Order Restoration Council at
different levels will continue to carry out the responsibilities of the State
while the Constitution is being drafted. So we will continue to carry out the
responsibilities even after the elections. We will continue to do so till a
strong government has been formed." (WPD 4/13)
**********************
May
1990
-- Nyan Htet in the Apr. 22 issue of Loktha
Pyithu Nezin said that "There are many problems
in Myanmar Naing-Ngan today; the problem of drawing up a constitution after the election and the problem of having
to form a government by those who will have won the parliamentary elections
held under the law of the adopted Constitution." Whether this amount to having to hold another election is "the
view of the author." The SLORC
"will not draft a new constitution. The matter of
drafting up a new constitution rests with the candidates who win in the
forthcoming election." (WPD 5/5)
*************************************
-- "As
our current aim is to hold the election as scheduled we cannot as yet concern
ourselves with the Constitution.... A new Constitution can be drafted. An old
Constitution can also be used after some amendments.... Among the 93 parties,...
five...want to use the 1947 Constitution,...77 parties...want to draw up a new
constitution and...11 parties...made no comments.... Whatever may be the case,
the people will decide with their votes." (WPD 5/11)
*************************
-- "The
fixing of the date for holding the first Hluttaw meeting after the election
will be co-ordinated by the candidates who will be
elected." (WPD 5/12)
***************************
Excerpts from report
“…the information committee answered questions from journalists
... In his question, the 'Yomiuri’ correspondent, U Myo Thant,
noted that in his 9th May address, Senior Gen Saw Maung, Chairman of the SLORC
and C-in-C of the Defence Forces, said some political parties have plans to
draft a new constitution based on the 1947 constitution while some parties plan
to draw a new constitution based on the 1974 constitution and that some parties
plan to copy and use a foreign constitution.
He asked the information committee what plans there are to clarify
this sad state of affairs so that there will not be too many voices. …
The information committee answered that from the party manifestoes
of the 93 parties contesting the elections, it can be seen that five parties
want to use the 1947 constitution after amending it, 77 parties want to draw up
a new constitution and 11 parties have not stated their position.
The information committee explained that the SLORC is giving priority to holding the scheduled elections as
fairly as possible and believes that the
drafting of a constitution should be discussed and decided by elected
representatives in the assembly. The SLORC has nothing to say on how the
constitution should be drafted.
Source: Democracy and
Politics in
**************************
"If asked whether our duty is completed
or not, the answer is `no'. Why? It is necessary to understand that we are responsible for the enforcement of
the rule of law and ensuring regional peace and tranquillity
until a government can be formed according to law.
"Another thing is that we'll never let
the emergence of political turmoil as in 1988. Regarding the government
servants, I would like to make them understand that the political parties' win
or loss over the election must not cause contradictions between government
servants. Another important point is that we'll always be loyal to the three
national causes--non-disintegration of the
"This is what we have done to our four
main tasks. And when they are finished, there are many tasks ahead for us to
continue.... The most important task of holding the free and fair multi-party
election has been accomplished. But there is one more thing. We will continue
to implement the task of ensuring secure and smooth transportation. And this
will be the same to the remaining two tasks.... I'm going to say one thing
unequivocally and unambiguously. I can't let the emergence of political turmoil
as in 1988...." (WPD 5/31)
********************
June 1990
June 1
1990: At the 93rd State LORC Press Conference,
spokesmen said:
-- State LORC Chairman Senior General Saw
Maung said on 30 May that the election was free and fair, as journalists had
seen, and that "that they would never let the reoccurrence of situation as
in 1988, that till the power has been handed over to a strong government that
would come into being in accordance with law, that they would carry on
implementing the first three tasks... [rule of law and tranquillity; transportation; food, clothing and shelter]
and that they would always put in the fore the three main causes of
non-disintegration of the
-- Asked what tasks the SLORC would carry out
"before the next government was formed...and how long they would
take," the spokesman said the SLORC
would "carry on with the duties and responsibilities till a strong
government is formed according to the constitution and that the SLORC would
also continue to carry out the three main tasks.... A constitution would be drawn up by the representatives of the parties
elected, that power would be handed over, according to law, to the strong
government formed in accordance with the constitution thus drawn up and that it
could not be said how long the drafting of the constitution would take."
-- Asked "whether the constitution thus
drawn up would be put to a referendum or not," the spokesman noted that
the 1947 Constitution had not been put to a referendum, but that "it was considered that good advice
and suggestions as well as the desires of the people including all the national
races in connection with drawing up a new constitution so as to bring out a
strong new constitution could be obtained and that it considered that the
people's representatives would take the advice, suggestions and desires of the
people into serious consideration and carry out. [sic]"
-- Asked "when would the State [LORC]
and the representatives of the political parties that won in the election
meet?" the spokesman said "there was no predetermination when such a
meeting would take place."
-- "Asked "whether the political
parties that had lost in the election had the right to continue to exist or
not?" the spokesman said they could.
-- Asked whether, since some 20 constituency
results had been announced each day, that figure had been decided on, the spokeman said results were announced as soon as
authentically ascertained, without any specific quota. Tatmadaw helicopters
were assisting, and "whether the task of announcing the names could be
finished within the time estimated depended on weather conditions."
-- Asked whether "the responsibilities
would be handed over to an interim government if such an interim government
were formed with the Hluttaw representatives while a constitution was being
drawn up?" the spokesman said "the
State [LORC] would hand over the responsibilities only to the strong government
that would come into being according to law in accordance with the Constitution
drawn up and approved by the Hluttaw representatives elected, and that this
was said not only now and that the State [LORC] Chairman and Secretaries had
told this time and time again...long before the election was held."
-- Asked whether action had been taken against
anyone "for security reasons" in connection with the election, the
spokesman said it had not.
-- While most foreign election coverage was
correct, some broadcasts said "the election was not free and fair and that
the opposition had won and the party supported by the government had
lost." This was not true, since "our government is not a party
government but it is only a jury. So there is no opposition party to us."
The continued use of "opposition party" is inappropriate. (WPD 6/2)
********************
"the
constitution to be drawn up needed to become one which the people
accepted." [According to headlines over the article, "It cannot be
assumed that our duties are completed though the election has been held./New Constitution is to be drawn up and enacted; Our construction activities and special
projects are to be carried out with momentum till a government is formed under
new constitution./Constitution concerns not only a party or a group but also
the people of entire nation and thus it must be the one accepted by the entire
national people."] (WPD 6/3)
*********************
"You are all aware that the country has seen a drastic change. The SLORC has accomplished the four main
tasks but it will carry on its duty of further implementing the first three
tasks until a new government emerges in accordance with the law. Transition of
power will be made only then.... I would like to say as regarding a
national concern. This is paying respect to the State flag.... You teachers are
to instil in your pupils the spirit of paying respect
and reference to the State flag. Similarly, your pupils are required to be
taught the singing of the National Anthem." Basic education schools will
reopen June 11. (WPD 6/8)
********************
June
15 1990: At the 95th State LORC Press Conference,
spokesmen said:
-- Re announcements concerning election
accounts and period for raising objections to election results, the spokesman
said "we have heard some persons and some organizations criticize to the
effect that such issuing of announcements is aimed at causing delays without
any reason at all." They have either not read the Election Law and Rules
or "have evil intent to make the people misunderstand and suspect the
State [LORC] Government. [Text of relevant laws and regulations reprinted.] The
law is being followed.
-- "93 parties contested the election.
According to the Commission announcements candidates of 23 parties have been
elected up to this day. But the number of elected representatives differs....
Since candidates of many political parties have been elected, a single-party
system has now come to an end.... The Tatmadaw government...is no party
organization. Therefore, it has no rival party.... Hence, it has no opposition
party before and after the election. It will deal with all parties equally and
perform its duties in accordance with the law in future until the tasks are
accomplished."
(WPD 6/16)
********************
"Although the election has been held we will
continue to carry out the regional development work. It is heard that some diplomats from certain foreign
embassies in
****************
June
18 1990: Addressing the fourth coordinating meeting between the State LORC and the
Committee for Compiling Authentic Facts on Myanmar History, State LORC Chairman
Senior General Saw Maung made the following principal points:
-- The publications of the Committee clarify various episodes from 1947,
notably that the 1947 Constitution was framed and adopted "according to
the will of the British" before independence and therefore included a
right of secession.
-- The Revolutionary Council came into being
"because of the right to secede contained in that Constitution." It
was "a legal government."
-- The State LORC Government "is also a
legal government." It is not bound by any constitution. "I would like to emphasize that a
sound constitution is essential in order that there may not be problems in
future."
-- The insurgents threaten further attacks
"if the military government is not forthright concerning the election
returns...." There "is no cause for us to be bothered by the likes of
these insurgents.... It is enough to say they have now got only two camps...Manepalaw and New Wankha left...."
-- "We will not accept any attempt to
return to the 1988 incidents. We are prepared to face any eventuality.... It
must be noted that constitution is the
concern of all the citizens including us, the Tatmadaw members and the service
personnel. We will do what needs to be done ...." (WPD 6/19)
**************
"Having
held the freest and fairest election, we have proved that Tatmadaw is not power
crazy. And we have time and again declared that power will be transferred only
to the strong government that will be formed according to law." (WPD
6/21)
****************
June
22 1990: At the 96th State LORC Press Conference,
spokesmen said:
-- "Arrangements have been made"
according to law for meeting with parties and holding a Hluttaw session to draw
up a constitution, and will be announced when the time comes.
-- Asked about reports that signboards of the
League for Democracy and Peace "were put down", the spokesman said he
had heard that the party had split into two [see below under Elections]. (WPD
6/23)
***************
-- The spokesman declined comment on a
reported statement by Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister U Ohn
Gyaw that "a new Hluttaw could not be held
before September." (WPD 6/30)
****************
July
1990
-- "We have frequently declared that we
must continue with our responsibilities until such a time as we are able to
hand over power to a government which emerges with a constitution embodying
sub-paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) of State Law and Order Restoration Council
Declaration No. 1/88 issued at the time we assumed the responsibilities and
which would be of assistance in the realization of Our Three Causes [of
Non-disintegration of the Union, Non-disintegration of national solidarity and
Perpetuation of national sovereignty]."
-- It is important "never to
under-estimate anything which is likely to unsettle the nation.... Thoughts
should be in accord with Myanma ideas and thoughts.
It is very important that things are not done with ideas from this or that
country."
-- "Now that the election has been
completed, what comes?... release this or that individual...this amounts to
personality cult. Quickly free `political prisoners", convene the Hluttaw;
the Hluttaw has legislative, judicial and administrative power. As soon as the
Hluttaw is convened, hand over power immediately. Some say that certain
individuals should be freed and be included in drawing up the constitution;
that a national assembly should be convened. According to some of the material
we have, an organization calling itself the nationalities parties front or
something like that also calls for transfer of power and also what points
should be included in the constitution...."
-- "They say" that there have been
three Tatmadaws: that of the independence struggle;
that of the AFPFL; and that of Bogyoke Ne Win. Therefore the Tatmadaw "should be made to
swear allegience to the Constitution." But has
the Tatmadaw ever betrayed the nation?
-- Before Sept. 1988, "at the time when
the Lanzin Party Emergency Congress agreed to hold
multi-party election and if people had accepted it and co-operated, the Hluttaw
would not have been disrupted and there would not have taken place the
situation which exists today. I think, if the Hluttaw representatives elected
from that election amended whatever should be amended from the Constitution,
everything would have been settled."
-- Western people disregard that our
situation is different from
-- I have not mentioned, for fear that people
would accuse the Tatmadaw of taking sides, that the [BSPP] was already planning
to change the socialist economic system at the regular 1989 Party Congress when
the 1988 disturbances broke out.
-- "What is to be done after the multi-party
election? The constitution has to be written.... I have said
the SLORC would not write it. We cannot be made a scapegoat.... The
Constitution concerns everyone .... We will speak out about what should be of relevance
to prevailing conditions in the country." [Review of 1943, 1947, and 1974
constitutions and their adoption.]
-- "
-- Discussion of complex ethnic divisions.
"How should we take into consideration the matter of dividing (the
country) into states nationalities-wise? Is it possible?... To what extent will
powers be given to states?" Will the Tatmadaw be replaced by insurgent
armies as the DAB demands? Even East and
-- Michael Adler [AFP journalist] "told
the Information Committee that the Constitution could be drawn within three
hours. But when asked if his country did so, he didn't reply."
-- "The broadcasting stations are
blatantly shouting nowadays. `Transfer the power promptly as there is a
landslide victory. Na-Wa-Ta (SLORC) is applying delaying tactics....' They also
broadcast news for the DAB."
-- "How dangerous is the split in our
country? It can be seen by the situation of the election. A total of 93 parties
have taken part in the election.... There are altogether 27 parties which have
won seats.... There are also six independent candidates who have won
victories...." One party [League for Democracy and Peace of U Nu] has split.
-- "Last week I have the chance to know
what Bogyoke Aung San had said about the right to
secede provided for in the 1947 Constitution.... Bogyoke
Aung San asked to scrap it. I can't help it if the one who knew does not reveal
it. I have documentary evidence. This is history." [Lengthy
exegisis of drafting of 1947 Constitution.]
(WPD 7/4)
************
Election
Commission Meets
*****************
July 5 1990: At the 98th State LORC
Press Conference, spokesmen said:...
-- Re drawing up a Constitution, "the
[SLORC] would meet the parties when the time came and...would
announce the programme for holding a meeting with the parties when the time
came." (WPD 7/6)
****************
July
13 1990: At the 100th State LORC Press Conference,
spokesmen said:
-- "Political parties are known to be
extensively discussing the drafting of a constitution.... We would like to
present a matter that requires serious consideration in drafting the
constitution...the political stand to be adopted by insurgent groups. [Former
BCP official] U Sai Aung Win said [at Press
Conference No. 99] that...the group led by KIA accepts the autonomy (status)
while the group led by KNU has not altered its stand on the right to
self-determination which includes the right to secede.... It is the tactical
ploy of the KIA in adopting the stand on autonomy status. Their ultimate
objective is self-determination which includes the right to secede.... [Long historical discussion.]
-- "Some political organizations are
claiming that certain races which are not officially recognized as national
races to be considered to be national races.... We do not recognize
nationalities depending on their faith. Those who are not in the nationalities
list previously in trying to obtain nationalities status can harm the drafting
of the constitution...."
-- "There are ethnic conflicts among
ethnic groups in the States. There are such problems in Mohnyin
and Mogaung area of northern
--
"The SLORC will not take a leading part in drawing up a constitution and
that...will be done by the elected Hluttaw representatives .... It would give
suggestions if they were asked for."
-- "The matter of
insurgents have to be taken into consideration in drafting a
constitution so that no new insurgents arise after the annihilation of the
existing insurgents."
-- [In
drafting the constitution] "ways and means must be sought through
consultations by all strata of classes and the organizations representing the
parties.... If the Constitution is drafted on the basis of three causes namely
non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of the solidarity of
nationalities and consolidation of sovereignty, the Constitution which is in
accord with the desire of the public can be adopted."
-- The
SLORC will not act as a judge in limiting the time for drafting the
Constitution. (WPD 7/14)
************************
Excerpts
from recorded speech by Maj-Gen Khin Nyunt,
Secretary-1 of the State Law and Order
Restoration Council (SLORC) at the 100th news conference of the SLORC Information Committee at the Ministry of Defence
on the morning of 13th July, Rangoon
Veteran local and foreign journalists and guests:
Although Senior General Saw Maung has frequently addressed the issues of transfer of power and the constitution - today's most popular issues - 1 do not know whether there has been a genuine misunderstanding or a pretence of misunderstanding over these issues. The writings and shoutings of publications and foreign broadcasting stations have been giving the impression that we are unwilling to transfer power and that we are playing for time. By doing so, they are trying to create confusion among the public. In response to this, I am meeting veteran journalists today (13 July) to explain what should be known about the nation.
The first point I would like to explain concerns information in the newsletter published, distributed and sold recently by the National League for Democracy (NLD). I refer to the latest issue, No. 13/90, of the NLD newsletter. That newsletter raised the questions of when power would be transferred, when Daw Aung San Suu Kyi would be freed, the issue of the three branches [legislative, judiciary, executive], the definition of a political prisoner and the Chinese ambassador's statement on the genuine need for talks between the SLORC and the NLD.
It took us some time to find out who was responsible for the publication. We had to strain our eyes a great deal and finally found the publisher's name at the very end of the page - U Chit Khaing. We had to search hard to find his name. The newsletter contains demands and attacks against the current government as well as incorrect and fabricated information and smacks of the undisciplined publications which proliferated during the events of 1988. We had to strain our eyes to locate the name of the publisher which was contained in very fine print.
No matter who writes, when incorrect information and accusations are written the publisher must be summoned to take action. The publisher responsible for this newsletter, U Chit Khaing, was summoned by the appropriate officer on 11th July to explain the matter. We have given the publisher a first warning that if the publication goes any further, action will be taken according to law. U Chit Khaing signed a pledge to arrange to publish a correction to the statement made by Senior Gen Saw Maung at the 43rd news conference. The publisher has been warned because the newsletter contained incorrect information.
I shall continue to discuss the incorrect information. Newsletter No. 13/90, published, distributed and sold by the NLD, contains an article, with no author's name given, on the issue of when power would be transferred and when Daw Aung San Suu Kyi would be released ... The article referred to Gen Saw Maung's statement on the constitution and transfer of power at the 43rd news conference on 10th June 1989 and his reference to the existence of two constitutions currently in the country - the 1947 Constitution and the 1974 Constitution. The article implied that Gen Saw Maung made this statement at that news conference. As you veteran journalists know, Gen Saw Maung met the press only once last year and never attended the regular news conference to give any explanation.
The article also referred to Gen Saw Maung's speech at the co-ordination meeting of the SLORC and law and order restoration councils of states and divisions on 3rd July 1990 on the issue of drafting the constitution after the multi-party general elections ... The article is accusatory in nature, pointing out that statements made before and after by Senior Gen Saw Maung are inconsistent and that he had changed his tune.
Senior Gen Saw Maung never attended and
did not give any explanation at the 43rd news conference held on
The
Information Committee in their replies at the news conference said SLORC
Chairman Senior Gen Saw Maung had
frequently spoken on the transfer of power, that he had said power would be transferred immediately to the
government that emerges according to law after the elections and that we did not know to whom and how power would
be transferred immediately as we did
not know who would win in the elections. The Information Committee said power could not be transferred as
soon as the elections were held and the situation would depend on the formation
of a government based on the Constitution. The Information Committee said that if power were transferred in a hurry
only a shaky and weak government would emerge, and that this fact was apparent
to anyone capable of thinking and that
a stable situation was possible only when a government was formed
systematically according to the constitution ...
At the news conference, the Information Committee quoted Senior Gen Saw Maung as saying that the new constitution would not be drafted by the Defence Services, that it would not be written by the SLORC and that the elected people's representatives were to draft the constitution ... The NLD newsletter selectively took extracts from what had been explained fully and related them to the senior general's speech of 3rd July 1990 at the meeting of the SLORC and the law and order restoration councils from states and divisions and implied that the SLORC had changed its tune. This is incorrect. It is aimed at causing confusion among the public and amounts to accusations against the SLORC Chairman and the government. In other words, these are fabrications to create antagonism between the SLORC and the people.
We have not changed our attitude. Please
study the explanations and statements issued by us. They are consistent. I
would like to clarify that the 43rd news conference and
At the present time we should consider
the choice between the 1947 Constitution and the 1974 Constitution. It is evident, because of changing times and
conditions, that neither constitution
is now suitable or usable. So which
constitution should we use in transferring power? We should draft a new
constitution. It is essential to draft such a constitution. For a strong
government to emerge, we should proceed systematically according to law.
In
order to carry this out we need a new constitution which has been drafted and promulgated systematically. It is necessary that
such a constitution be acceptable to every citizen in the nation. The
winning parties are to work for the emergence of a resolute constitution in the long-term interests of the
state and the entire people. The political parties are responsible for drafting the constitution.
As for our SLORC, we will not regard it as something that is of no concern to
us. I would like to say that the
SLORC will give as much assistance as possible. As individual Burmese citizens, it is of concern to us and we are
responsible for it...
In drafting a constitution we should not
copy the constitutions of other countries, but must consider the unique conditions in our country,
bearing in mind that our country is a
union of 135 ethnic groups and that there is internal insurgency which has
existed from the time of independence until today ... Therefore, I would
like to say that a constitution cannot be amended, drafted and promulgated easily by a minority
...
Next, I would like to address the issue of
when Daw Aung San Suu Kyi will be released, which was raised in the newsletter. We have heard that the NLD openly
declared that Daw Aung San Suu Kyi must play a leading role in establishing a
new democratic state and that Daw
Aung San Suu Kyi must lead in the talks with the SLORC ... I would like to ask
a question of the representatives and
winning political parties elected by the people hoping to play a leading role in determining the destiny of
the country. Which is more important: Obtaining
power and the release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, or the long-term interests of the country and the people? They must consider
this. I believe this is not the time for an individual approach or for a personality cult in insisting that a
specific person be included in working for the long-term interests of the
state. It is the time for the winning parties to work in the spirit of patriotism and in the interests of the country and
the people and the perpetuation of the
To speak frankly on Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, we have been very lenient in the restriction order imposed on her. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's advocating defiance of authority and confrontation affected state security and public peace and tranquility and she repeatedly violated the law. By continuously defying authority despite repeated warnings from the authorities, she infringed on the Criminal Law as well as special laws. However, in consideration of her status as the daughter of national leader Gen Aung San, she was put under the restriction order according to Article 10-B as a pre-emptive measure to stop her from engaging in further confrontation. This action enables her to live in peace without danger and ensures stability and peace for the country.
Daw Aung San Suu Kyi is permitted to move
about freely in the compound of her house and she is living freely ... We oblige her social needs as much as
possible. We assisted in repairs to
her compound and her residence and have been providing weekly medical care and treatment ... We even
provide orthodontic care at her request to correct her uneven teeth. Her spouse, Dr Michael Aris,
and her sons have been sending her letters, foodstuffs, goods, books and documents from
Another matter mentioned in the newsletter is the three government branches ... The NLD newsletter in reference to the three branches mentioned that the Revolutionary Council exercised the three powers through decrees without resorting to the 1947 Constitution and that SLORC has been exercising legislative, judicial and executive powers without a constitution. It went on to say that before the 1947 Constitution was endorsed by the constituent assembly, the government of Gen Aung San and U Nu exercised powers under the 1935 Burma Act. The newsletter implied that power can be transferred without a constitution ...
The political leaders of the NLD should consider the times and conditions. They have among them famous legal experts. The SLORC is ruling today by martial law. The Defence Services are administering according to law after dissolving a government. It is an administration by martial law. It is not a political organisation elected by the people. Political parties elected by the people cannot obtain the three powers through decrees ... If a political party convenes a parliament and forms a government according to its own wishes, then such a government can only be a parallel government. If that happens, the SLORC government, which is a legal government, will not look on with folded arms.
Representatives
from political parties which are to build a new democratic state must consult among themselves on a new constitution
stage by stage ...
Another matter in this newsletter concerns political prisoners. There is an article on political prisoners by a person claiming to be a legal expert...
I shall explain these so-called political
prisoners. To promote unity and peace in the country, on 28th May 1980, the
state government issued Order No. 2/80 on General Amnesty declaring amnesty for those who had
committed political offences ... There was such a classification of political offence under the provisions of the
time by the State Council as applied
to Order No. 2/80 on General Amnesty. We should take note that it does not apply to offences committed afterwards.
The government at that time was the government
of the
The Emergency Powers Act was enacted in 1950 by the AFPFL (Anti-Fascist People's Freedom League) government and the Law Safeguarding the State from Dangers of Destructive Elements was passed in 1975 ... All laws have their own objectives and meaning. We cannot regard those against whom action has been taken under one of these laws under present circumstances as political prisoners. We have the Criminal Law enacted during the pre-independence era, the law passed during the AFPFL government era, and the law enacted during the time of the government of the Burma Socialist Programme Party. These laws and their articles cannot be uniformly interpreted as applicable to political cases. Times and conditions have to be taken into consideration.
Today is the time of the military government and we are acting according to our prescribed laws. The objective of taking action under these laws and articles of previous eras is to ensure law and order and peace and tranquility in the state and peaceful conduct of trade and livelihood by the majority of the public. It is to ensure security. We would like to state categorically that since the SLORC does not defend the political line of a party, the actions that have been taken are not for political offences. So long as the old laws are not yet abrogated, we have the right to use them ... We take action for security and law and order. Therefore, I would like to declare categorically that those against whom action has been taken at present for reasons of security and law and order cannot be regarded as political prisoners.
I would like to speak about matters regarding diplomats. That newsletter quoted the Chinese ambassador on the need for a dialogue between the SLORC and the NLD. The newsletter showed only the Chinese ambassador visiting the NLD headquarters but did not carry photographs of other ambassadors who have visited many times. There is a motive behind this. I will continue my explanation. In that newsletter, the meeting between the NLD executive committee members and the Chinese ambassador was highlighted with a large photograph. We think that in publicly showing the meeting with a foreign ambassador, the NLD is behaving like a current government in power without regard for the dignity of the ambassador.
We would like to say that it is not proper to state in the newsletter the ambassador's wish for the release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, even if he really said it, because it is only his personal opinion. It is not customary to publish officially a statement that is not issued by a government, but that is only a personal opinion. Publishing this in the NLD newsletter is just like announcing it officially to the public and could be construed as an act to create misunderstanding between the SLORC and foreign diplomats.
Many foreign ambassadors visited the NLD headquarters after the elections. Of all these visits why would the NLD choose to publish only the meeting with the Chinese ambassador? Ambassadors from Western countries have been meeting and holding discussions with NLD Central Executive Committee members often. You journalists all know this. There are many ambassadors from Western countries who have frequently visited NLD headquarters. It is considered dishonest to selectively publish a photo of the meeting with the Chinese ambassador on the front page of the newsletter while failing to report on meetings with the many Western ambassadors.
I would like to continue to discuss matters relating to diplomats.
On 11th July the VOA broadcast that the
British government had asked the Burmese military government to begin holding talks on the transfer of power with
the winner of the May elections. You journalists already know about that
broadcast. It is included in the monitoring news [preceding two words said in
English]. It was stated in the broadcast that the news was contained in the statement issued by the British embassy in
Likewise, there are some foreign countries
that have called for a quick transfer of power. Such calls were made according to their wishes without proper knowledge
of
It is also not proper to breach
diplomatic ethics to interfere in the affairs of a country which was considered a colony. To state it clearly, only
the Burmese people and the Burmese citizens
have the right to determine the internal affairs of the country and we will not
tolerate any foreign interference.
The people who genuinely love
Some Western countries have been applying pressure [preceding words said in English] frequently by threatening through the VOA, the BBC and by notes to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to cut off relations and economic assistance. We do not care about this pressure. Today, I would like to say through you journalists that we do not pay attention to all this pressure.
I will next present to you matters
regarding the observance of the Martyrs' Day ceremony. Since no news has been published on this and since
it is in the interest of most people, I will continue and present it. We will do what is necessary for this
year's 43rd anniversary of Martyrs'
Day in accordance with tradition ... We do not want the people to create any
disturbances by taking advantage of Martyrs' Day. The SLORC will carry out its
tasks step by step in accordance with
the law for the country and for the long-term interests of the nation. During
the period of our administration the situation in the country will be more stable and we will pave the way for the
construction of a democratic nation. With regard to the people's interest, we would like to say through
you journalists that we will take legal action against those whose activities
could disrupt peace and tranquility ...
Next, I would like to speak on the issue of meeting with
the assembly representatives and leaders from the political parties. There is a
plan to hold talks with elected assembly representatives of political parties and the SLORC. A letter to this
effect dated
Another matter is the 13th July issue of ‘Asiaweek’ magazine ... The AIR (All-India Radio) had already broadcast this. In the magazine Dominic Faulder described his interview with U Kyi Maung during his stay in Rangoon ... Dominic Faulder asked whether the government worries about revenge by the people ...
Much emphasis was given to the question. U
Kyi Maung answered that they have many problems
which must be addressed. He asked in actual fact, how many brutal German Nazis stood trial at
I would like to ask U Kyi Maung what attitude he had towards me in answering in such a manner. Let me say this frankly to U Kyi Maung as one soldier to another: I hold no grudge. We accept the fact that U Kyi Maung, who was once a soldier, has served the country. I would like to tell him that now we are serving the country and the people. U Kyi Maung claimed to have loved the country and to have sacrificed for the country. We too love the country and sacrifice for the country no less than U Kyi Maung. I would like to say no less.
I could attest to my character and patriotism and I dare to be compared to him ... As he said, I, Khin Nyunt, am a soldier and I never anticipate fear. We do not assume this responsibility because we are power-mad. I would like to tell U Kyi Maung that we are acting in the spirit of nationalism and patriotism. I would like the journalists, whom I believe meet U Kyi Maung frequently, to tell U Kyi Maung this. Do not insult with accusations which are not firm. Please tell U Kyi Maung that if it gets worse he will be sued ...
In conclusion, I would like to tell the NLD that the incorrect information contained in its newsletter undermines and insults the prestige of Senior Gen Saw Maung. They should be aware that action could be taken against them under the law for false accusation. Therefore, responsible persons should systematically scrutinise publications ... Please do not try to create antagonism between the people and the SLORC.
Please settle your own party affairs according to your own methods. Please do not try to accomplish party work and settle party affairs by showing opposition to the SLORC. Those who continue to do so will be wrong. Settle your own party affairs. Do not approach us by making demands and creating fights. We will continue to work systematically according to the law stage by stage. At present the political parties should be working on drafting a firm constitution in the interests of the country and the people ...
To the monks, laymen, students and youths,
I would like to urge them to study and review the country's history and relate it to the tough political journey they
have experienced. The time has come for them to act according to the law to
ensure the country's future and peace and
security. I conclude by appealing to them through the veteran journalists to unitedly assist
and participate consciously in the task of constructing a new, stable and
prosperous democratic state and to
prevent unrest, demands and fights after being misled by instigations from unscrupulous people inside and
outside the country. I thank you all.
[Source: Democracy and Politics in
***************
-- The National League for Democracy [No. 2]
"is to hold a co-ordination meeting of elected Pyithu Hluttaw
representatives in the Mahattama Gandhi Hall on
-- "The party that obtained the majority
of votes got only 38.11366 per cent of all eligible votes.... Nineteen parties in the name of nationalities gained only 2.5547
per cent eligible votes. Hence, all the winning parties combined gained
only about 40 per cent of eligible votes. If one looks at
this one can know whether they can represent the majority of the voters.
Therefore, in a nation like ours where there are 135 national races, it will be
necessary to solicit sthe desires and attitudes of
the majority of the people of all the national races in order to bring forth a
firm and strong constitution."
--"Parties that have published...
leaflets instigating and inciting the people and inexperience youths ...include
those that did not win a seat.... If they create conditions that sow enmity and
discord between the Government and the people just as they have done,...whether
[they] should be allowed to continue to exist will have to be taken into
consideration." (WPD 7/28)
*****************
Maj-Gen. Tin Oo's
Speech
July
27 1990: In a speech to Government department heads,
etc., State LORC Secretary (2) Maj-Gen. Tin Oo made
the following principal points:
-- "The SLORC...has abolished one-party
system as well as the laws protecting the socialist economic system and has
paved the way for the market economy system...."
-- "The SLORC will have to carry out the
tasks which should be done for the benefit of the public, stage by stage,
according to the programme laid down. When
the time comes, we will have to hold discussions with the Hluttaw
representatives from political parties and independent candidates.... The
transfer of power will be made systematically only, after drafting and
approving of the Constitution. The SLORC is taking appropriate measures
within the short period in the efforts for changing one-party system to
multi-party system and establishing multi-party democratic machinery."
-- "Under the one-party rule, service
personnel could carry out the State duties as well as the party tasks....
Service personnel are being trained to be free from party politics while
changes are being effected in political system.... It is necessary for [them]
to change their ideas and concepts they conceived during the one-party
system.... They are to carry out their duties conscientiously and be faithful
to whatever government comes to power according to law.... The Tatmadaw, being
a service organization, does not accept the leadership of any party and is not
biased for or against any party...."
--
"The Hluttaw representatives of successful parties...are to frame a
constitution by seriously taking into consideration such factors as the
delegation of sovereign powers, the choice of political system and regional
administrative system. We will in no way let the nation plunge into a state of
chaos for want of a firm constitution."
-- "The insurgent organizations and the
exterior forces are...making attempts through incitement, instigation and
sabotage...to manipulate the drafting of a new constitution. It will be
inappropriate to shape the future of the country based upon personality
cult."
-- "It is required for all to prevent
the outbreak of demonstrations or strikes. Now is the time when the leftists
and rightists within and without the country are making disturbances...bent
upon putting the Tatmadaw into a tight corner...[by using] immature youths and
students for their own selfish ends of coming to power.... It is incumbent upon
parents and teachers to advise their children or pupils correctly." (WPD
7/28)
******************************
1. Myanmar Naing-Ngan became an independent
and sovereign nation on
2. The situation in the whole of the country
deteriorated because of the disturbances during 1988. The Tatmadaw took over
State Power in order to correct the deteriorating situation in time and in the
interests of the people. The Tatmadaw abolished all the Organs of State Power
including the Pyithu Hluttaw, formed the State Law and Order Restoration
Council [SLORC], declared that it would carry out the four main tasks and
undertook the responsibility of all the affairs of the State.
3. The [SLORC] issued laws, notifications,
declarations and orders which have the force of law, required for effectively
ensuring prevalence of law and order, the rule of law and peace and tranquillity throughout the country.
4. In order to ease the food, clothing and
shelter problems of the people and to enable private, co-operative and joint
venture businesses to be undertaken, the [SLORC] has repealed the restrictive
laws and has issued necessary laws, orders, directives and orders which have
the force of law. Moreover, it is carrying out measures which should be
undertaken with a view to serving the long-term interests of the State.
5. The [SLORC] is carrying out measures which
should be undertaken in order to ensure safe and smooth transportation and communications
and to improve the same.
6. The [SLORC] (Tatmadaw) is not an
organization that observes any constitution; it is an organization that is
governing the nation by Martial Law. It is common knowledge that the [SLORC] is
governing the nation as a military government and that it is a government that
has been accepted as such by the United Nations and the respective nations of
the world.
7. As regards international relations, the
[SLORC] has declared that it will pursue an independent and active foreign
policy and has friendly relations with the respective nations of the world.
With a view to promoting better diplomatic relations with the respective
nations the Government has not closed down any embassy in Myanmar Naing-Ngan
but has allowed them to continue to operate; neither has it withdrawn
8. Myanmar Naing-Ngan being a member of the
United Nations, the Myanmar Embassy to the United Nations strictly pursues the
foreign policy of Myanmar Naing-Ngan in international matters and in performing
its duties concerning the United Nations, Myanmar Naing-Ngan abides by the
principles of peaceful co-existence in its relations with other nations.
Moreover, Myanmar Naing-Ngan defends and safeguards its independence and deals
with other nations' interference in its internal affairs in accordance with the
provisions of the United Nations Charter.
9. In order to avoid disruption and severance
of relations between Myanmar Naing-Ngan and other nations, the Government
magnanimously has time and again told some diplomats who have violated their
diplomatic code of conduct not to interfere in its internal affairs without
mentioning their names and the nations to which they belong. Furthermore, it
has informed the matters to the embassies concerned through diplomatic channels.
As it has been able to avoid matters that may cause disruption of relations
between nations and governments by doing so, there has not arisen any problem.
Misunderstandings due to the activities of some diplomats have been cleared
with magnanimity, through diplomatic channels.
10. The [SLORC] (Tatmadaw) has been
persistently carrying out the three main tasks--that of preventing
disintegration of the Union, preventing disintegration of national solidarity and
that of ensuring perpetuity of the sovereignty of the State from the time it
has assumed the duties and responsibilities of the State. Everybody is aware
that on the other hand it has launched major offensives and crushed all sorts
of armed insurgents, sacrificing the lives, blood and sweat of many members of
the Tatmadaw. Since the Tatmadaw is not a political organization, it did not
hold negotiations with the insurgents by political means. However, it welcomes
all those who have renounced the programme of armed struggle and returned to
the legal fold and a body formed by it is carrying out resettlement work for
them. Since the [SLORC] is not a political government, it has no reason at all
to negotiate by political means with any armed insurgent organization.
11. In order to enable the Multi-Party
Democracy General Election to be held, the [SLORC] enacted the Multi-Party
Democracy General Election Commission and formed the Multi-Party Democracy
General Election Commission. It also enacted the Political Parties Registration
law to enable political parties wishing to stand for the election to get themselves registered. Moreover, in order to hold a free and
fair multi-party democracy general election, it enacted the Pyithu Hluttaw
Election Law.
12. Section
3 of the Pyithu Hluttaw Election Law provides that--"The Hluttaw shall be
constituted with the representatives elected from the constituencies in
accordance with this law." The [SLORC] will take measures for summoning
the Hluttaw in accordance with this provision. The Information Committee
has, from time to time explained that the Multi-Party Democracy General
Election Commission, the parties which
won seats in the election and the elected representatives should carry out
measures which should be carried out in accordance with the law and rules.
13. Today, after the Multi-Party Democracy
General Election has been held, matters relating to summoning the Hluttaw and
transfer of power are being discussed in bulletins and pamphlets published;
guidelines in respect thereof are being given and incitements and instigations
are being undertaken by foreign broadcasting stations and illegal pamphlets and
leaflets are being distributed.
14. The matter of summoning the Hluttaw has
been explained earlier. The Chairman of the [SLORC] has explained matters
relating to transfer of power in the addresses he has made from time to time in
his meeting with the Command Commanders, Commanders of Light Infantry Divisions
and Chairmen of the State/ Division Law and Order Restoration Councils. The
Secretary-1 of the [SLORC] explicitly dealt with this matter at the 100th Press
Conference held on
15. There
will be no necessity to clarify the fact that a political party cannot
automatically get the three aspects of State Power--the legislative power, the
executive power and the judicial power--just because a Pyithu Hluttaw has come
into being and that they can only be obtained on the basis of a constitution.
The Constitution of 1947 was accepted and approved by the Constituent Assembly
on
16. The Constitution of 1974 was drawn up
after the nation's independence had been gained and no one can deny the fact
that it was a constitution promulgated through a national referendum.
17. It is necessary to note particularly the
difference in that the Constitution of 1947 was drawn up before the
independence of the nation was attained and that the Constitution of 1974 was
drawn up after the independence of the nation had been attained.
18. It
can be seen from the statements issued that the desire of the majority of the
political parties which contested in the Multi-Party Democracy General Election
is to draw up a new constitution. It will be seen that when the
Constitution of 1947 was drawn up, matters concerning the national races were
discussed only with the Shan, Kachin and Chin
nationals at the Panglong Conference and that they
were not discussed with the Mon and Rakhine nationals.
Today, in
19. As
the [SLORC] is a military government, it exercises Martial Law. As such it
exercises the following three aspects of State Power in governing
(a)
Legislative power: Only the [SLORC] has the right to exercise it.
(b)
Executive power: The [SLORC] has the right to exercise it. However, it has delegated this power to the
Government, State/Division, Township Zone, Township and Ward/Village-tract Law
and Order Restoration Councils at different levels and has caused
administrative work to be carried out through collective leadership. This is a
form of giving training to the service personnel so that they will be able to
perform, by keeping themselves free from party politics their departmental work
under the government that will come into being according to the constitution.
(c) Judicial
power: The [SLORC] has the right to exercise it. However, the Government
has formed courts at various levels to adjudicate on ordinary criminal and
civil cases so that they will have practical training when a constitution comes
into being.
20. Consequently
under the present circumstances, the representatives elected by the people are
those who have the responsibility to draw up the constitution of the future
democratic State.
21. It is hereby declared that the [SLORC] will in no way accept the drawing
up of a temporary constitution for forming a government to take over State
Power and that it will take effective action if it is done so, and that in the
interim period before a government is formed in accordance with a new firm
constitution drawn up according to the desires and aspirations of the people,
the [SLORC] (Tatmadaw) will defend and safeguard--
(a) the three main causes--such
as the non-disintegration of the
(b) of the four main tasks mentioned in the
[SLORC] Declaration No 1/88 such as the prevalence of law and order, the rule
of law, regional peace and tranquillity, ensuring
safe and smooth transportation and communication, easing the food, clothing and
shelter problems of the people and holding Multi-Party Democracy General
Election, the first three main tasks (with the exception of the task of holding
the multi-party democracy general election) and
(c) the task of bringing about the
development of the national races of Myanmar Naing-Ngan.
By order,
Sd. Khin Nyunt
Secretary-1
The State Law and Order Restoration Council
(WPD 7/29)
***************************
August 1990
***************************
Aug. 10 1990: At the 102nd State LORC Press Conference,
spokesmen said:
-- The Government has not taken note of reported remarks by NLD Central Body
member U Chan Aye on July 30 that a meeting was needed between the SLORC and
the NLD to resolve a difference of opinion over the constitution, and by U Kyi
Maung "that `Mai' (the NLD) could not accompany `Maung' (the SLORC)
wherever he (it) would take her." However, "U Kyi Maung...had even
said something in connection with the Nuremburg trials." (WPD 8/11)
*********************
"We
know that power should be handed over in accordance with constitution at the
suitable time. There must be a firm constitution in our country and it is the
life of the country. A government should not be formed and power be handed over
in a slip-shod manner with a temporary constitution. We successfully held the
election for we have arrangements for handing over power from the very beginning.
"Myanmar Naing-Ngan has two significant
conditions. One is that the country is made up of 135 different national races
and the other is that there is insurgency that emerged with our independence.
These things are to be taken into consideration in drafting a constitution. A constitution is to be drafted in such a
way that it is in accordance with the wishes of the national races who are
residents of the
"Myanmar Naing-Ngan remained backward
due to insurgency. Now insurgents remain only in certain border areas. The
State Law and Order Restoration Council has been carrying out activities for
development of border areas and this work has been going on for more than one
year. The work is aimed at strengthening national solidarity.
"Certain
political parties and some organizations are making demands for swift transfer
of power. Broadcasting stations of certain big nations are making attempts
to interfere in our internal affairs to undermine national solidarity and to cause
disintegration of the
"We have no political party that backs us.
We are doing things through co-ordination among Tatmadaw leaders and under the
leadership of Senior General Saw Maung according to our belief and objectives
for the good of national races." (WPD 8/20)
******************
Aug 24 1990: At the 103rd
State LORC Press Conference, spokesmen said:
-- "Political attacks on us... creating
demands and attacks [are inappropriate].... The [SLORC] is not an organization that will hold on to State power for
a long time."...
-- "We have heard the news that the
[SLORC] has formed the military council only now and that the military council
will continue to govern the nation.... There are now some people who have
deliberately fabricated such news...there is no need to form a military
council."
-- With
the...election having been held, the [SLORC] will continue to carry out the
remaining three tasks till the coming into being of a firm government.... We
will continue taking the responsibility of the State till the emergence of a
government formed in accordance with constitution accepted by all the national
races."
-- Since
all constitutions are now void, demands to hold a Hluttaw session are intended
"to cause unrest and disturbances...." Various political parties
[NLD; Mra People's Party] are framing constitutions,
even some without a single seat. Parties without a seat "will have to stop
their illegal acts if they want to continue to exist." Parties should not
"incite acts defying the authority nor of making demands for an interim
government."
*********************
"The [SLORC] carries
out giving priority to Our Three CausesÄÄnon-disintegration
of the
"Our
country must have a firm constitution. It is the life of a nation. It is
impossible for us to hand over power to a government formed under a provisional
constitution. We should see the long-term interests of the nation.
"It is necessary for the political
parties to do their work within the bound of law.
"I would like you to realize that
certain diplomats got themselves involved in the movements that had taken place
in Myanmar Naing-Ngan and foreign broadcasting stations such as BBC, VOA and
AIR broadcast false news in an attempt to cause disintegration of the
"UG [underground] elements headed by BCP
Bo Kyin Maung have infiltrated into the world of
service personnel and parties.
"Market economy is being practised and
natural resources of the State are systematically being exploited. Especially
in the onshore oil exploration, we have signed contracts with ten foreign
companies. It is expected that oil can be produced between six months and one
and a half year from now. Myanmar Naing-Ngan will make rapid progress if the
work meets with success....
"The
most important task today is to draw up a constitution concerned with each and
every citizen. Hluttaw representatives, leaderrs of
nationalities and the people, therefore, are to take
part in drawing up the constitution.... The constitution cannot be framed by
one person or one organization...[it] must be in full
accord with the wishes of the people.
"The National League for Democracy has
made demands in publishing resolutions passed at Gandhi Hall and excerpts of
its eighth press conference. Matters concerning the constitution and transfer
of power cannot be dealt with hastily. In view of national interests these
tasks must be carried out state by stage taking appropriate time.
"At present, the rule of law and peace
and tranquillity are essential requirements and each
and every person must abide by the law...." (WPD 8/27)
*******************
"Just as organizations within the
country are continually demanding speedy transition of power, so also the
organizations outside our country are meddling in our internal affairs.... As
their attempts to cause disturbances in August have come to naught, they have
made another move to cause unrest in September. They are again spreading rumours that something will happen on
"The
very essence of Declaration 1/90 is transfer of power according to a
constitution which is acceptable to all national races.... We have...put up sign-boards bearing the three main
causes. But some students, persuaded by some unscrupulous politicians, are now
putting down or destroying sign-boards. And these acts amount to the
implication that those politicians who are pulling the strings from behind will
forsake the three causes if they ever come to power....
"Greedy merchants and traders do not
hesitate to join the propaganda campaign. They do not try to make money by
simply competing among themselves. They resort to unscrupulous means, spreading
fabricated news...[that] may heighten the anxieties of the people. Taking
advantage of the government's revised fuel distribution the destructive
elements spread various rumours. They'll always
attempt to push us into a corner.... We, on our part, must keep an eye on their
acts so that their destructive activities can be prevented." (WPD 8/28)
*****************************
"As the attempts to cause disturbances
in August have come to no avail, fresh attempts are being made to cause
disturbances in September again. Some youths, cooperating with the pundits
abroad, are spreading news that they will launch a movement on
"There are some unscrupulous politicians
who are saying: `SLORC will collide head on with NLD as both are running along
the same rails in opposite directions; the only difference will be the impact
of the collision.'... There are publications under the name of UNDP which carry
the news that a democracy bomb is going to explode.... The SLORC... will strictly adhere to its Declaration 1/90.... You may
sometimes think casually that power can be transferred easily. But if you think
it seriously, you'll see that the transition of power without a firm
constitution will only lead to the disintegration of the
"There are some individuals who are
accusing the Tatmadaw of being fascists. Although there are such indirect
references and innuendoes, the political parties have never revealed their
attitude towards the Tatmadaw openly. They only reiterate their demands for
earliest transfer of power and their offer to the insurgents to hold peace
talks." (WPD 9/1)
*****************************
September
1990
Judiciary Warned
***********************
"There are certain unscrupulous persons
who set you outliving Tatmadawmen as targets in their
attempt to spark off disturbances.... Should
the power be transferred without a firm constitution, aliens will blatantly
interfere in our internal affairs. In this connection, U Aung Gyi in his book...wrote thus: `We can in no way permit CIA
meddling in Myanma domestic affairs. What is worse is
that there are some foreigners who are interfering in our affairs. Most of them
are from the Western countries.... We'll in no way tolerate foreign
interference or influence....
"There
are differences of opinions and aims within the parties. You can imagine how
perilous it will be for the SLORC to transfer power to them under present
circumstances. You should read the
book entitled `Whither Myanmar Naing-Ngan?' written by Vidhura
Thakin Chit Maung. In his book, he raised a question
of whether the casting of overwhelming votes for the candidates of a solitary
party is right or wrong....
"The saboteurs have made fresh attempts
to launch movements in September.... We have heard that they will collect lists
of outliving Tatmadawmen, that they will insult,
threaten and bully [them], that if [they] lose their temper and encounter them,
they will injure or kill them, that if a civilian dies in the brawl, they will
turn the person into a hero and thereby create disturbances.... So, I would
like to urge you not to dance to the tune played by them...." [They are
also "making movements bringing to the fore the members of the Sangha...."] (WPD 9/8)
**************************
"There are respective laws for specific
professions and responsibilities.... We [Tatmadawmen]
abide by the 1959 Defence Services Act. Citizens...have to abide by the Penal
Code. Service Personnel...have to follow the Fundamental Rules. Furthermore, as we are Buddhists there is vinaya and codes of conduct for those of the Sasana.... For the entire nation and all the national races
residing within the national boundary and for the conduct of international
relations there must be a constitution....
"There is the matter of those who reign
as kings. I am not a king. In fact, I Am the SLORC Chairman. But I am entirely
responsible for Myanmar Naing-Ngan. I do not regard myself as a king. I am not
a king. Today is not an era of kings.... [I have read the] "Shwenanthon Abidan" ....
I've also found the ten kingly duties in it. [Other texts mentioned].... It is
not good for a king to be too aggressive and if he is too soft he will be
overwhelmed. I cannot let this kind of thing happen again in our country....
"There are also traditions and customs
to be abided by. That means to pay respect to parents, teachers, elders and
those who are of same age and to be kind and considerate to the younger
ones...." [Christian and Muslim texts cited.]
"We have the situation at present ....
The broadcast made last night by the BBC and VOA and measures to be taken to
prevent undesirable things from taking place.... I did things which ought to be
done during the night. You can ask afterwards .... Maj-Gen.
Khin Nyunt will explain on 11th all these matters on who did what with
documents, evidence, records, cassette tapes and video tapes....
"I had mentioned matters to be carried
out after the election.... This should be understood by those who will lead the
country.... I need reports from the Commission saying that such and such
persons have become legally elected Hluttaw representatives, Pyithu Hluttaw
representatives.... There seems to be some sort of controversy in this regard. Is this the constituent assembly or is
this the Pyithu Hluttaw? [1947 Constitution, written
under colonial rule, and adopted as an "a sort of amendment" under
British colonial legislation.] But in our case no one must come under
us.... I have no constitution. This
should be understood.... Whether it's called the Constituent Assembly or the
Pyithu Hluttaw...is a matter which concerns the [Election] Commission, as I
have said earlier....
"What
must the party organizations do?... Why should they
come and demand `give us power' using confrontation method? This sort of thing
took place in 1988.... I cannot allow such a thing to happen again. On the
basis of what constitution is a government to be formed.
I have told one and all that I cannot accept a temporary constitution.... [Panglong Conference, and
Revolutionary Council conferences recalled.]...[The Revolutionary Council] had
a party. I have no party. But if I wanted power I would have formed a party
....
"[The parties] should have asked by now
what they should do. I have told them that I will help them .... What have they
been doing? Have they they own real strength? Have
they their real party strength? Ko (Maj-Gen.) Khin Nyunt will tell you about this in detail on
11 September.... [Party expense accounting requirements reviewed]. If the
accounts are ...incorrect at the time of one's signing the affidavit, one
commits an offense according to the penal law.... This amounts to giving false
evidence.... There was a matter connected with a woman. The people thought that
we did it to damage her dignity. No. The account must be cleared up....
"Then, another matter connected with
law. I shall not give the name. [Daw Aung San Suu Kyi-HCMacD.] It concerns a woman's submission of an application.
She was asked, in respect of the decision made according to democratic
procedure of the League, whether she had the right to stand for election or
not. It will probably be known. However, she signed the application saying she
was doing it in obedience to the democratically-made decision of her party.
This is connected with 10(e) .... According to it the following persons shall
have no right to stand for election...those who have the right to enjoy the
rights and privileges enjoyed by subjects and citizens of foreign
governments.... What is mentioned is not `those who are enjoying those rights
and privileges'.... `The right to enjoy' means one may have enjoyed them at one
time or another in the past or one who will enjoy them in the future. That is
what is meant.... However, the application was submitted as an act of respect
of the decision of that organization. There took place commotion in that
township. The matter was settled at the Division-level.... It is not we who
created this....
"[Different countries have different
kinds of head of state.] In our country how shall we get a Head of State?... I
do not say what should be done. This is the work to be done by the coming
Hluttaw representatives.... I work very hard. Today there are various kinds of rumours afloat. There is the matter of our having to take
action last night. I cannot allow troubles and dangers to occur....
"I must say there are broadcasting
stations giving us trouble. I restrained myself and just gave hints as I did
not want to have relations between nations affected. I said things in
connection with diplomats violating the ethics and code of diplomats. We have
tolerated a lot....
"In connection with the matter with
members of the Sangha in
"We have here valuable minerals. The
Almanac of 1990 here was sent to me by USIS.... There are lots of mineral
wealth. What we need is just to exploit them. There is no need to worry about
debts.... Our country became an LDC not we wanted to [sic] .... As I understand
it, the suggestion was made to us by two other countries. Nowadays, our
country's foreign debt amounts to 4.2 billion .... Our oil exploration work is
not a trifle [sic] one. Our oil reserve survey was seven hundred and
thirty-three million billion barrels in 1985. It is very promising. I have
learnt that we can start drilling some oil wells in the early part of the
winter. Now we are only in the stage of seismic survey....
"Some are saying that something will
happen on the 9th or on the 15th just like an indication.... I am not a
wimp.... But I will not tolerate under any circumstances, anything that will
harm the interests of the country and the national races or anything that will
make the country come under the influence of another nation. In connection with
the actions I have taken, I hereby inform the people, members of Sangha, journalists and my officers in Myanmar Naing-Ngan
that I have only done things within the framework of the law. That is
all." (WPD 9/8) [Photos in WPD 9/9]
************************
-- State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt appraised "matters which may not
yet be clear to the political parties and some of the people," as an
extension of State LORC Chairman Senior General Saw Maung's
speech of Sept. 7.
"We
have been hearing all sorts of talk...about the transfer of power. The gist of
what is being said includes that a national convention is to be formed to draw
up a new constitution; that the Tatmadaw is to prove [sic] it and the people
are to vote on it; that another election is to be held and since it will take
years to carry out these tasks stage by stage, there may finally be no transfer
of power and that the Tatmadaw is undertaking this program simply because it
does not wish to hand over power."
"As the British imperialists would give
Myanmar Naing-Ngan independence only if all the people of the land demonstrated
concensus...concessions [had to be] made to please
the imperialists. The socialist cause, which was the national aspiration, had
to be relegated to secondary position.... If the clause `the right to
secede...' had not been included in the constitution [of 1947], the British
imperialists might never have granted independence.... This constitution could
be regarded as a temporary constitution .... As it was drawn up with the sole
aim of regaining independence, the desires of the people could not be fully
ascertained.... Rather... [it] reflects and represents the desires of the Sawbwas, the feudal lords belonging to the ruling class
.... The British imperialists working in complicity with `axe-handles' inside
the country, assassinated Bogyoke Aung San and the
other leaders whom they knew it would be very difficult to handle....
"As the political system practised was a
bourgeois parliamentary democratic system and as the economic system practised
was one which was entirely in the hands of the foreign capitalists, the people
were exploited.... Insurrections broke out ...and later, the party in power
split into many factions.... The prejudice [was great] between those who had
once been colleagues as they adhered to the motto `To get power is primary and
the wellbeing of the nation is secondary".
"As the country was on the verge of
disintegration, the Caretaker Government led by General Ne
Win came into being in 1958. There were some people who blatantly lied that the
Tatmadaw had seized power. The Tatmadaw held the election as promised and
systematically handed over (to the winning party).... But it did not amend the
Constitution to make it worthy of an independent nation....
"So the Federal issue arose....
Furthermore, the unity within Myanmar Naing-Ngan disintegrated and... the
nation tethered [sic] on the brink of disintegration.... In other words,
treasonous elements and traitors within the country counted on foreign forces
that entered the region....
"At that time...the Constitution no
longer suited the country. It no longer prescribed the establishment of
socialism, the original national objective. It was building capitalist
Parliamentary democratic system contrary to the original objective. National
solidarity had disintegrated. National economy had also become bankrupt...in
the hands of foreigners.... The war that would be breaking out in
"Because of these conditions, the
Revolutionary Council came into being in 1962.... This led to implementing the
socio-political system, the original national objective of an independent
nation, under a suitable Constitution.... The 33-member internal unity advisory
committee made up of prominent politicians was formed on
"If we look at the two
constitutions...the 1947 Constitution which was drawn up prior to the gaining
of independence, contains provisions on the right to secede... and besides it
was drawn up in haste and therefore the approval of the national people could
not be sought.
"As for the 1974 Constitution,... the
opinions of the people were solicited on a wide scale. Moreover, a nation-wide
referendum was held and ...the matter of the states of the national races were
completely solved in accordance with the wishes of the national races.... It
was overwelmingly approved by the people and hence it
can be regarded as firm and good.
"However, a question can be raised as to
why it ended up with the disturbances.... The then Chairman of the Organ of
State Power U Ne Win delivered an address at the
Pyithu Hluttaw premises on
"The public became restless in 1988
and...[at the] Emergency Party Congress...the Party Chairman himself suggested
holding a national referendum to find out which of the two systems--one-party
system or multi-party system--the people wanted.... Although the
suggestion...was not followed,...a decision was made to change and practise the multi-party system at another Emergency Party
Congress held on
"When an era or a system ceases to
exist, then the constitution which reflects that era and system also ceases to
be in force.... The [SLORC] views everything from a legal point of view.... The
national objective in 1947 was to gain independence...and in 1962 it was the
socialist cause.... After the advent of the [SLORC], the national objective is
the coming into force of the multi-party system and accordingly, the
[SLORC]...held the multi-party election.
"After
the holding of the free and fair election in order to aim for the parliamentary
democracy system, which is the national objective, it is necessary to implement
the second step of drafting of the constitution...which is acceptable to
majority of the national races ....
"The emergence of the [SLORC] was
due...to political organizations which rejected the offer for the establishment
of the multi-party system according to the law but demanded...an interim
government according to the programme for seizing power through force....
[Congressman] Solarz and...Ambassador...Levin met
with...Dr. Maung Maung on 4 September and attempted
to browbeat him into forming an interim government by setting aside the
constitution.... Some diplomats are still interfering....
"An announcement broadcast by the VOA on
1-9-90...stated that the military government has been violating human rights;
that new conditions are laid down...[for] handing over power to the elected
civilian government...[and] drafting and approving the constitution;...that the
Army will continue its rule without limitations...; that the Myanmar Army had
driven about 500,000 people out of their homes and resettled them in remote
places during the last six months and that democracy means that the Army is to
be put under civilian government which was elected in accordance with
constitutional and democratic means. These facts [sic] were announced by VOA on
[Denunciation of foreign
interference and BCP plotting.
Review of establishment and dissolving of parties. Analysis
of surviving 93 parties, and of election results.]
"When we studied the list of successful
candidates...the majority stood for election under the name of the National
League for Democracy... Of the 485 successful candidates, there were 42 retired
Tatmadawmen, ...145 retired service personnel, 54
advocates and lawyers, 50 doctors and 194 civilians.... Students are
conspicuous by their absence.... If [SLORC]
had no wish to hand over power it would not have held the election. This is
quite clear....
"The National League for Democracy [NLD]
Central Executive Committee and League candidates elected to the Pyithu Hluttaw
held their first plenum at the Gandhi Hall on 28-29 July 1990 and published the
`Gandhi Hall Declaration,' the main points of which were the convening of the
Pyithu Hluttaw during September 1990, the handing-over of power according to
the 1990 temporary constitution written by the [NLD] and the writing of a new
constitution by the Pyithu Hluttaw only after power was transferred to the
body.... [Other similar NLD declarations cited.] The Democratic Labour Party (
"The United Nationalities League for
Democracy...[which] listed 22 parties after the latest changes... [has] four
main standpoints.... One, formation of a Union comprising eight states by
racial grouping.... Two, the full enjoyment of the three
sovereign rights by these states. Three, the formation of a bicameral
Hluttaw, and four, a union where equal rights are enjoyed....
"A youth organization, the Democratic
Party for New Society [endorsed the "Gandhi declaration, while
"manipulating the illegal organizations" and having "shady
dealings" with the ABSDF].... I want to say there is a limit to such
actions and they must cease....
"The...five youth organizations [listed
above]...have jointly issued a statement endorsing the Gandhi declaration. It
is also found that political parties would gang together and put the present
military under coercion, stage demands and fights and then move toward
instigating disturbances. I want to say this is not the time to get into such
activities.
"Student...groupings such as the Ba-Ka-Tha, then the Ba-Ka-Tha
(Upper Myanmar), Ba-Ka-Tha (Lower Myanmar), Thone-yaung-chai, Khut-daung-ni-Asiayone,
Ma-Ta-Tha, Ah-Ka-Tha, Ah-Kha-Tha
and such like, have been active variously and in disunity.... Some...are found
to be working in collusion with political parties, some are...engaged in what
concerns the students. Some...are... moving towards creating disturbances....
Some students get bold not only to the point of circulating anti-government
handouts, but...to destroying the posters displaying Our Three Causes or
smearing them with paint ,... [and] destroying the
telephone. Or to take down the State Flag, create disturbances during school
hours, or threatening the teachers or trying to harm them....
"Those who are against the Three Causes...are
connected with the insurgents and those who are fomenting trouble from outside
the country....
"Various
political parties are talking variously about the kind of constitution they
want.... [Breakdown of proposals] The
"Next, I want to put before you what
concerns religion and race issues being mixed up in politics.... Some political
forces in
"[NLD pamphlets in
"Diplomatic staff of some
embassies...are...in constant touch with political parties.... [In] many
instances student youths were invited and instigated....
"Foreign interferences and instigations
of foreign organizations are mainly responsible for continuing insurgency problems.
They persist because of foreign conspiracies....
"The
SLORC...Declaration 1/90 [of]
"As regards personnel of the political
parties and Hluttaw candidates, there
will be things they can do just as there are things they cannot do where the
writing of a new constitution is concerned. Do what you are supposed to do.
If there is something you cannot do, the SLORC and the Tatmadaw are ready to
help you....
"Informations
have been sent to the elected Hluttaw representatives to complete their work as
mentioned in the...Election Law.... [They] are to submit (1) election expense
accounts and (2) to give explanation on objections lodged against them ....
"Out of 479 representatives 347 ...had
already submitted their election expense accounts up to now.... There are also
1,730 candidates who were not elected.... Out of this 1,093 candidates have
submitted... accounts.... Only three Independent candidates out of six
submitted... accounts. [Of] 81 Independent candidates who were not elected...58
have submitted accounts....
"There are 11 objections lodged in
accordance with Section 64(a) of the Election Law...being heard at five
tribunals.... There are 31 complaint letters sent to the [SLORC] .... The
Election Commissions also received 41 complaint letters....
"We also know there are differences of
opinion within the political parties, personality cult, personal attack,
misappropriation, politicking and complaint letters were received from the
political parties. The complaint letter said woman Hluttaw representative from
the National League for Democracy was allegedly guilty of misappropriation
and...moral turpitude.... A doctor who was an elected Hluttaw representative
from the [NLD] is facing trial with alleged looseness of character....
"If
efforts are made [by parties] to cause instability in the country the
government that assume responsibilities cannot help in framing a constitution.
It amounts to wasting the time for the government has to control the
situation.... Hence, it is time for political parties and organizations to make
efforts for the swift emergence of a new constitution that conforms with law [sic], instead of threatening and instigating with
the aim of disintegrating the Tatmadaw and trying to confront the Tatmadaw....
"I will now present the concluding part.
I will present matters relating to the drafting of the constitution. There is a dire need to have a constitution
which contains precise and concrete policies, ethics, rules and procedures in
order to ensure the perpetuity of country's independence; prevent the
disintegration of the Union; to enable democratic essence which the people
desire flourish and to enable the people to live in peace and tranquillity.
"All
the Union nationals residing in the country, all mass and class organizations,
all intellectuals and technicians, all who love the country and all who protect
and preserve the country are to co-ordinate and co-operate in drafting a
constitution so that it would be the best and all the national races...would be
satisfied....
"I will...present matters on where to
start the work of drafting the constitution and who are to take the
initiative.... [Drafting and approval of 1974 Constitution reviewed at length.]
Don't you think there should be...a
conference or a pilot referendum for the drafting of a new constitution broadly
based to reflect the wishes of the national races...and people of every walks of life.... [It] is not the work of a single party, a
group, an association, a group of people or a single human being.... It simply
can't be done in this way.... The wishes, attitudes and advices of the people
as broadly based as possible should be sought.
"Who
will sponsor this?... The SLORC is not going to write
the constitution.... Accordingly, people's representatives from different
political parties and the major political parties will be leading.... What we
have to remember is to obtain the attitude and advice of the Union races living
in farflung and remote border areas.... We, members
of the SLORC government and the Tatmadaw, have visited our brethren in far away
border areas...and have...studied and noted down their feelings and their
wishes. Similarly, I would like to say that the voice of our brethren...should
be heard and noted down in the programme for obtaining the wishes of the
national races to be launched soon.
"If
the new constitution incorporated these three causes [non-disintegration of the
***********************
October 1990
[Two
roads for
****************************
Oct. 20 1990: The
constitution is primary and it is to serve the interests of the people for
ever, by Maung Pwint Lin.
[Need for a constitution drawn by all
the people. Today, despite the great progress made by the SLORC, "It
is primarily because of the clever political self-seekers and the great
economic exploiters (using unlawful means) that the commodity prices today are rising instead of coming down. That is why the people are
saying that they themselves will draw up a constitution that will keep them
away from fear and alarm and that will bring about development that will ease
their food, clothing and shelter needs."
*************************
-- SLORC Declaration 1/90
came out July 27, while the NLD's Gandhi Declaration
was issued July 28. The NLD on Sept. 17 issued resolution 5/90 calling for
talks with the SLORC. Since the SLORC is not a party, it will not discuss
political matters outside the framework of law. Parties are to file financial
reports, which will be checked and "if any discrepancy or cheating is
found, action will be taken against those concerned according to law." The
SLORC "will constantly continue to firmly stand by the terms of
Declaration 1/90."
**************************
UNGA Address
"... On
******************
Oct.
19 1990: At the 106th State LORC Press Conference,
spokesmen said:
Constitutional
Plans
-- The National League for Democracy meeting
No. 6/90, and a subsequent NLD meeting in Mandalay, both held since the last
SLORC Press Conference of Oct. 6, called for: (1) convening a Pyithu Hluttaw
session as soon as possible; (2) transfer of power "according to the temporary
constitution they framed"; (3) drawing up a new constitution; (4)
negotiations [with the SLORC]. This "amounts to saying that the party that
won the majority of Hluttaw seats want to assume power according to the
constitution they drew up and get the Hluttaw to draw up a new
constitution." But the constitution
concerns all 135 national races, the worker and peasant class, and others like
soldiers and civil servants.
The Union National League for Democracy
(UNLD) on Feb. 8 proposed a constitution with 8 states, each having full sovereigny, and a bicameral parliament. The NLD wants 7
states and 7 divisions. Others want
"It
has therefore become evident that emergence of a new constitution acceptable to
the majority is a basic requirement." The 1947 and 1974 constitutions
caused insurgencies. "Only after the emergence of a constitution
acceptable to all will there be a transfer of power."
-- Parties must complete monetary requirements.
"It will not do just to mention the expenses. There must be accurate
accounts compiled as to where the money was obtained, how much was spent and
how much remained. For example, there was money given to the National League
for Democracy. [K200,000 from National Peace and
Democracy Party Chairman U Darwood Jamari; K10,000 from the League of Patriotic Old Comrades;
and K100,000 from U K Ba Thaung.]
"We would like to ask [the Parties] whether they have kept systematic
accounts in advance and how they would solve the legal problem in future if
they have not kept accounts."
The SLORC warned the people connected with Nu's parallel government in advance "with cetana because the existence of a parallel government would
affect the election.... It is also with cetana that
we have reminded as regards accounts, because they may become problems one
day." ... (WPD 10/20)
*****************
November
1990
"... The demand `Transfer power quickly'
was shouted from Mandalay Ma-Soe-Yein Kyaungtaik.... The front windshield of the [Mandalay
Commander's] car was shattered by stones from the Kyaungtaik.
The Commander had to pay K 10,000 for the damage caused to the car.... And so I
instructed the Central Command Commander Maj-Gen Tun Kyi to do what had to be done....
"I cannot yet say how many were
arrested.... We have already discovered earlier on that this matter is
connected with top level personnel of a party. There have been instances when
individuals of party organizations have had to be called in and questioned
about connection with religious matters. Some
also had to be interrogated for opposing our Declaration No 1/90. These
matters are too complex and complicated. Saying too much will only make it more
complicated. They did all sorts of things; they [the NLD--HCMacD.]
did the Gandhi Declaration and they also did the 5/90 and the 6/90.... I want
to reiterate that we will not tolerate any organization or individual if it is
against us. Such things are called influences and interferences. More about
this later....
“..."There are many political parties
which support the Gandhi Hall declaration. If we are to take action in these
matters as I see in legal terms, there will not remain a single party
registered with the Election Commission. I will wait and see to what extent
they will continue to tell lies. If I decide there will not be any parties
left. But I fear that if I do so, there is the problem that I would be thought
of as one wanting power. We as well as the Tatmadaw do not want our names to
get smeared in history and therefore we are acting with care and restraint....
"... Where shall we go? Don't think too much. You will be confused.
What I would like to say is that I will not do anything that is wrong.... The
Constitution is to be drafted .... There is freedom to practise
one's faith. I will not impose restrictions on your rights. But
not in that way. There are countries I have been to. I have been to
***************
"What was this morning's demand? Lift Martial
Law; transfer power to civilian government... I will go on with this
process.... I do not care about such intimidations.... There is a code of
conduct for the police. Follow it and act according to it. You must carry out
our instructions .... We repeatedly say that it is not allowed to assemble five
or more persons. They should not assemble with the intention of inciting
unrest...." [But we say nothing about movie-goers, crowds at markets,
religious meetings.]
"I will simply tell you what Martial Law
is.... The PPF members also do not know it. The judges will not know it. The
lawyers will not know it. This law is exercised only by the Army. Only the Army
has the right to exercise it....
"In our Military Tactics there is no
`dialogue'. Why? Because it is politics that must undertake
`dialogue'. I have said that I will not do politics. I go in for
`Military' .... There is no reason for me to have any dialogue with armed
insurgent organizations....
"I have in detail about [the political
parties].... I know who are included in the other organizations. I also know
who were elected and who are included in the organization which say that it is
the party that wins (the election) and that leads the State.... I know on a
nation-wide scale. I have found many who have lied in giving their bio-data.
How can I hand over into the hands of such persons?....
"The attitude of some towards the
Tatmadaw.... They said this army must be reformed, that it must first be
dissolved and reformed, that the head of this army must be cut off and the body
must be taken. I have all the evidence. However, those parties are permitted to
exist.... (WPD 11/12)
****************************
"... Many of the parties have signed
pledges that they will abide by Declaration 1/90 issued by us. I will tell you
in connection with the National League for Democracy.... The Patriotic Old
Comrades League which is an ally of that has also signed .... The National
Democracy Party, which is an organization under it, has also signed.... The
organization which is split into two factions [U Nu's
Party--HCMacD] has also signed ...but not as a
party.... The National Unity Party has, as far as I know, already signed it. Bo
Aung Gyi the (UNDP) I mentioned yesterday, has
already signed it. Then, what happened? They said, `Give us time-frame'....
This is a `demanding process'. Don't do that. Do what you have to do till you
finish it....” (WPD 11/13)
********************
"When the persons and the organizations
concerned come to know things and mend their ways, our nation will, in future,
become a democratic state which the majority people desire and aspire for....
"I
have no desire to take over power. But there is reason to ponder greatly in
handing over power to those who will plunge the country over a precipice. In yesterday's journal published by Kaythara, it is mentioned that officers above the rank of
colonels are to be removed. Isn't it so? And then it is to be formed at will.
Those in the jungles will be recognized legally and will come to town. If the
country is governed by such persons, what will happen to the country?...
"A meeting of the NLD and allied parties
Hluttaw representatives said: "However, serious consideration is to be
made regarding the army. A clever approach is to be made so that the motto
`Decapitate the Tat; take the body only' may be materialized. Ha! How about
this? We ...what a thing. Decapitate; take the body
only.... Here is also Ko Yu's line. Ko Yu is now in custody ....
"I will tell you candidly. If the NLD
forms a government, you will not become prime ministers or ministers. There are
not even enough posts for all of them to divide among themselves. If UNDP wins
and forms a government, you will not become ministers....
"I do things with zest and zeal .... I
prepare for the defensive. When I prepare for this and they attack me, I
counter it with great force.... And they will be crushed. Defensive-offensive.
I am practising it. I defend myself under the right
of self-defence. My defence later becomes an offensive. Without strength it
will collapse and if that happens I will be in trouble. They ask for the
multi-party system. We have signed Declaration 1/90....” (WPD 11/ 14)
************************
"Do you want democracy? If you want
democracy, then it will be like what I have mentioned just now.... I have
become quite weary. They want things to become smooth without any efforts. If
they continue to go this way, it is rather difficult for us. In reality the farmers rights are the workers rights.... What rights have
you lost?... Just tell me and if possible I will fulfil them.... (WPD 11/15)
*********************
Statement by U Kyaw Min, Alternate Chairman of the Delegation and
Permanent Representative of the Union of Myanmar to the United Nations in the
Third Committee of the Forty-Fifth Session of the United Nations General
Assembly on Agenda Item No. 110: Enhancing the Effectiveness of the Principle
of Periodic and Genuine Elections,
Mr. Chairman,
May I first of all express our sincere thanks and appreciation to Mr. Enayat
Houshmand, Director, Implementation of International Instruments and Procedures
Branch, Centre for Human Rights, for his comprehensive and useful introduction to
the important agenda items under discussion.
Mr. Chairman,
Today, I would like to focus on Agenda item 110. A number of fundamental
principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, particularly the
principle enjoining States not to interfere in the internal affairs of other
States enunciated in Article 2 paragraph 7 are directly relevant to the
consideration of this item. These principles are universally known and
recognized. I shall therefore not tire the committee by recapitulating them at any
length. But I feel I must say this:
These principles strictly delimit the nature and scope of all our
deliberations and actions. They define and determine what the United Nations
can do and what it cannot and must not do. They have been re-affirmed and
clarified in innumerable declarations and resolutions of the General Assembly,
the last being resolution 44/147 of 15 December 1989, entitled, "Respect
for the principles of national sovereignty and non-interference in the internal
affairs of States in their electoral processes".
Given the pertinence of this resolution to our present deliberations, allow me
to refer to some of its operative paragraphs:
- Operative paragraph 2
Affirms that
it is the sole concern of peoples to determine methods and to establish
institutions regarding the electoral process, as well as the ways for its
implementation according to constitutional and national legislation;
- Operative paragraph 3
Also affirms that
any extraneous activities that attempt, directly or indirectly, to interfere in
the free development of national electoral processes, in particular in the
developing countries, or that intend to sway the results of such processes
violate the spirit and letter of the principles established in the Charter and
in the declaration on Principles of International Law concerning Friendly Relations and
Co-operation among States in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations;
- Operative paragraph 4
Urges all
States to respect the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of
States and the sovereign right of peoples to determine their political,
economic and social system;
- operative paragraph 5 Strongly appeals to all States to abstain from financing
or providing, directly or indirectly, any other form of overt or covert support
for political parties or groups and from taking actions to undermine the
electoral processes in any country;
As the world stands at the threshold of a new and promising era, it is doubly
important for all States to scrupulously respect the sanctity of these
principles, both in letter and spirit and to strictly observe them in practice.
Mr. Chairman,
Having said this, may I now proceed to apprise the Committee of the on-going
process of democratization in my country. In the recent past, the people of the
Union of Myanmar have expressed their desire and their aspirations for a
multi-party democratic system of government. Accordingly, the State Law and
Order Restoration Council, which is the supreme organ of State power in
Mr. Chairman,
In post independence
A strong and viable constitution is a sine
qua non for a multi-party democratic system Thus
the drafting of a new constitution, which will be our third, is the next
indispensable step. To have a strong and enduring constitution, the drafting
process must take fully into account views acceptable to all the national races
as well as the majority of the people to achieve broad national consensus.
I need hardly stress that the elaboration of the new instrument must be carried
out meticulously, comprehensively and systematically. The bitter experience of
the past impresses upon us the need to overcome shortcomings of the 1947
constitution which ultimately resulted in the termination of our first
experiment with multi-party Democracy. That is why, Mr. Chairman, the convening of a broad-based national
convention has been envisaged with purposeful determination taking fully into
account our own political, economic and social realities. The drafting of this
new constitution will be the responsibility of the elected representatives. The
State Law and Order Restoration Council will do its utmost to assist them in
this historic national task.
Until such time as a firm,
constitutionally established government comes into existence, the State Law and
Order Restoration Council will continue to fulfil its national
responsibilities, namely: to prevent the disintegration of the Union; to ensure
the non-disintegration of national solidarity and to ensure the perpetuity of
our country's sovereignty.
Mr. Chairman,
My delegation is not unaware of the skepticism and doubts expressed in some quarters
that the democratic process is progressing at a slow pace and that transfer of
power has been deliberately delayed. Nothing can be further from the truth. In
this connection I cannot over emphasize the fact that the State Law and Order Restoration Council has given firm assurances,
time and again, that it will hand over power in due course to a strong and
stable government formed in accordance with the new constitution. The State
Law and Order Restoration Council is cognizant of its historic mission which is
to save the country from chaos, to restore law and order and to create
conditions conducive to the establishment of a strong and vibrant multi-party
democratic system.
Who can deny that this national undertaking can be realized only
in conditions where the rule of law and civil order prevail?
Mr. Chairman,
If I may digress a little from the main theme of my statement, I should here
like to touch upon the question of restraint placed on certain individuals in
my country which has been raised in some quarters. As we have clarified on
numerous occasions, legal action has been taken against these persons not for
their political views and activities but for infringement of the existing laws
of the land. Every government has the primary responsibility of maintaining law
and order. I might also add that the actions taken against the persons in
question are the most lenient prescribed by our laws. The Myanmar Government
has been also co-operating closely with the Commission on Human Rights, its
subsidiary bodies and the Centre for Human Rights in
It is worth recalling, Mr. Chairman, that at the time when we were taking
elaborate and systematic measures in preparing for the elections, there were
those who urged us to speed up the preparatory process. It was even alleged
that the elections might not be held at all and that if held, they would
neither be free nor fair. Notwithstanding these misgivings and the tremendous
pressures exerted upon us, we stood firm by our convictions which have now been
fully vindicated. To those who advocate speedy course of action, we would simply
like to reiterate that the Government of Myanmar is taking resolute measures -
step by step - towards the establishment of a stable and enduring democratic
state. The task of transforming a state from a single party to a multi-party
system is a formidable undertaking, which needs careful preparation and
elaborate groundwork. Additionally, there exists specific conditions and
circumstances in
Mr. Chairman,
It is a task to be pursued in a peaceful, systematic and orderly manner in
observance of the true values of democracy. This can only be accomplished by
the people of
**************************
December
1990
"[This is] one of the two towns,
*************************
Dec. 7 1990: At a
special 107th State LORC Press Conference, State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt said [excerpts]:
"This
is a press conference held in order to make known to the people through the
journalists how the insurgent organizations and political parties made their
moves to seize State power."
--
In Sept.-Oct. 1990, plans were made to form an NLD temporary government in
--
"I shall continue to present... how the NLD employed various devices in
its attempts to come to power. The authorities took into custody U Kyi Maung
and U Chit Khaing of the NLD on
-- Three NLD groups were formed.
Group (1) (the "Hardline" group) comprised
U Myo Aung, U Hla Pe, U Tin
Aye, U Khin Maung Tun and U Soe
Nyunt. Group (2) (the "soft line" group) comprised U Tin Win, U Min Wai, U Ohn Maung (Shan), U C. Vang Ciul (Chin). Group (3) (the
"principled line" group) comprised U Ohn Myaing (Mandalay), U Tin Shwe (Monywa),
U Thein Dan (Mandalay), U Tin Tun
Lay (Ayeyarwady), U Chit Than (Kayin), Win Hlaing, Myint Soe and Moe Zaw Oo
from the Lu-nge Baho (Youth Central). There was no Group (4) because the
Japanese [sic] believe it an unlucky number. Group (5) comprised U Ye Htut
(Mon), Thakin Soe Myint (
-- Four papers were prepared, by
Groups 1, 2, 3, and the Youth Central people. "It was found that the paper
compiled by the Youth Central contains facts aimed at opposing and attacking
the Government. The papers compiled by the other groups contain ambiguous expressions
which can only be interpreted as opposing the Government. Therefore, those who
compiled these papers have been called in and are being interrogated."
-- The Youth Central paper
"includes such ways and means as launching a general strike movement,
getting service personnel take part in the strike, destroying machineries at
mills and factories and other critical things, like cutting off transportation
and communication links all over the country. Also included...are ways and
means such as `opposing and facing up the blockades and hindrances placed by
the military government,' rushing headlong if the military government opens
fire, taking one's own life in protest, kidnapping the authorities and members
of their families, assassinating them, hijacking aircraft and destroying
buildings by mines or bombs.'"
-- The Youth Central paper called
for convening a Hluttaw session on Sept. 30 or Oct. 15, either in an embassy
compound or a monastery in
-- General Staff Officer (1) Major
Than Tun then read out an extended description of the
Youth Central paper, describing its main purposes as: (1) a general strike; (2)
violence and terrorism; and (3) the calling of a Hluttaw session to form a
government and get it recognized by the "UN and...the EEC nations, the
United States of America, the United Kingdom, Australia, India, Thailand,
Singapore."
-- Maj-Gen.
Khin Nyunt continued.
"The
plan which was drawn by the NLD is of great danger to the nation ...." Narrative of subversive activities by Youth Central member Myint Soe, establishing contacts
with insurgents. "What I have presented shows that the youth
central of the NLD is planning to use terrorist means if the transfer of power
is not in a way they desired and they were planning to form a parallel
government together with the insurgents and even to raise an armed
insurrection."
-- Some members of the NLD objected
to the NLD CEC [Central Executive Committee] Declaration 5/90 that the NLD
would lead in drafting a constitution and enter into a dialogue with the SLORC,
claiming that the majority of NLD Hluttaw representatives were not consulted,
and that Declaration 5/90 in effect repealed the Gandhi Hall Declaration
calling for a Hluttaw session in September.
-- Some NLD Hluttaw representatives
from
-- A group comprising U Hla Tun, U Hla
Than, Daw San San, and Daw San San
Win went to Mandalay Sept. 27; that comprising U Kyaw Thwin,
U Mya Win, Dr. San Aung, and U Tha
Saing went on Sept. 29. Dr. Soe
Lin (Mandalay SW) made arrangments for them to meet
Sept. 29-30 at the home of U Ba Phwa
(Amarapura). About 28 Hluttaw representatives agreed to oppose Declaration
5/90.
-- "While those responsible CEC
members of the National League for Democracy were clarifying matters on 5/90
approved by the party, the other faction formed a separate group...and this led
to making efforts to form a parallel government and to carry out activities
against the Government...." Thus even in a party, some act correctly and
others go against the law.
-- The faction members who met at
the home of U Ba Phwa
decided to try to hold a Hluttaw meeting if there were over 280 representatives,
and to form an interim government in
-- After the Amarapura
meeting, a second secret meeting of Hluttaw representatives was held "in a
building of a rice mill belonging to a doctor on the Mandalay-Maymyo motor coach road," attended by: U Bo Hla Tint (Mogok-2), U Win Ko
(Ye-U-2), U Hla Tun
(Kyimyindine), U Mya Win (Ingapu-2), and U Chit Tin (Minhla).
-- This meeting arranged to
"form a government in a jungle on border area...." U Aye Ko, U Bo Hla Tint, U Mya Win, and U Chit Tin are to maintain "connections
with armed forces in the jungle and internal communications." 15-20
Hluttaw representatives are to meet in jungle, and "get support from the
armed forces in the jungle for the temporary government." "To form
that Provisional government at the insurgent camp and to get recognition of the
diplomatic community does not include taking up the three executive powers of
the State at once. It was just a step to pressure the SLORC to transfer power
to the remaining Hluttaw representatives in the country. And in so doing, they
intended to get support from the students, workers, the public and foreign
countries...."
-- "When that new government
came into power U Sein Mya's
group would recognize and support it. Mon insurgents headed by Nai Shwe Kyin would be loyal to
NLD...."
-- "Another plan was to take
refuge in a foreign embassy and form a provisional government. They planned to
convene a meeting of over 250 Hluttaw representatives at a certain place."
NLD Hluttaw representatives would be asked to reject Declaration 5/90. They
would then join with the "allied parties which was United Nationalities
League for Democracy Party."
-- U Hla Tun, relying on U Tin Maung Win and U Khin Maung Swe, was
to make foreign contacts. At a clandestine meeting on
-- However, before they could act
"the Tatmadaw systematically dealt with the strike of the
-- "These are the attempts of
the National League for Democracy to establish a government in the name of a
provisional government, a government in exile or a government in the jungles
without fail.... Acts within the NLD, therefore, posed a grave danger to the
nation. So, we knew their schemes in time and took action, called them in and
interrogated them but foreign radio stations are often spreading falsehoods
that the SLORC Government is indiscriminately taking action and arresting NLD
personnel...."
-- "Are we not bringing about a
change from the old one-party system and socialist democratic practices to a
multi-party system and democratic practices? At this juncture, the Tatmadaw is laying down
protects [sic] and implementing them in order that a smooth transformation
might be brought about...." (WPD 12/9)
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1991
November
1991
STATEMENT
BY HIS EXCELLENCY U OHN GYAW MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND CHAIRMAN OF THE
DELEGATION OF THE UNION OF MYANMAR IN
THE GENERAL DEBATE AT THE FORTY-SIXTH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL
ASSEMBLY, NEW YORK, 4 OCTOBER 1991
Mr. President,
Questions have been raised in some quarters
about the perceived delay in the transfer of power. Some have even gone so far
as to assert that the Myanmar Government has shown no sign of respecting the
wishes of the people. Without prejudice to the firmly held position of my
Government that the political process now under way in the country is a matter
falling essentially within the domestic jurisdiction of my country - a
principle clearly enshrined in the Charter - I would like to apprise this
august Assembly of the facts:
- Two months after the successful holding of
multiparty elections in May 1990 which were recognized by all as the most free
and fair elections in the history of
- The Election Commission, which is an
independent body, has
issued two progress reports this year in which it indicated that it was
continuing with its task of concluding a final report in accordance with the
Election Law and the Election Rules and that scrutiny of the financial returns
of the candidates could not proceed at a more rapid rate due to the failure of
candidates to maintain accounts systematically;
- In accordance with the Election Law, a number of candidates have contested the
results and tribunals have been set
up to investigate the objections. This due process of law must be allowed to complete its course;
- Once
the Election
Commission has submitted its final report,
the State Law and Order Restoration Council will meet with the elected
representatives to discuss the holding of a national convention. The Convention
will be entrusted with the task of working out a broad national consensus which
will form the basis for framing a new constitution. In addition to the elected
representatives, leaders of political parties,
leaders and representatives of all national races and respected veteran
politicians will participate in the convention;
- On
the basis of the national consensus arrived at the convention, the elected representatives will draw
up a new constitution. The State Law and Order Restoration Council in
the best traditions of the Myanmar Defence Services will make suggestions and
render all necessary assistance for the successful drafting and adoption of an
enduring constitution;
- The
State Law and Order Restoration Council is above party politics. It is neither
a political organization nor does it have any intention of forming one. It will
continue to shoulder its responsibility to lead the nation till the time a
strong government can be formed on the basis of the new constitution.
Undoubtedly, a strong and enduring
constitution is a prerequisite for a strong and stable government, the more so
in
The second constitution was promulgated in
1974 during the time of the one-party socialist system. The entire people took
part in the thorough and systematic process which lasted over two years. The
final text was adopted in a nation-wide referendum on
In the light of these experiences, it goes
without saying that the new constitution now being contemplated should be a
living instrument that would reflect the hopes and aspirations of this
generation as well as generations to come.
At this critical stage in the life of my
country the constitutional process is an undertaking to be pursued in a
peaceful, systematic and orderly manner. It is a task that can be best
accomplished by the people of
In conclusion I should like to state categorically that once the political process I have
outlined is completed The State Law and Order Restoration Council will transfer
the reins of the State to a strong and stable government formed in accordance
with the new constitution.
Thank you, Mr. President.
[This document comprises the last two pages
(11 and 12) of the Foreign Minister's statement - OBL editor]
[Source: scan of hard copy distributed by the
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1992
April
1992
1. It is hereby declared that the [SLORC],
depending on the general situation of the country, will presently carry out the following measures:
(a) Of the persons arrested and detained
politically, those for whom there are no reasons to endanger the security of
the State, will be released promptly;
(b) It
accordance with the [SLORC] Declaration No 1/90, dated the 27th July, 1990, the
[SLORC] will, in respect of the convening of the National Convention, meet and
co-ordinate, within two months, with the leaders of the Hluttaw Representatives
of political parties existing lawfully and individual Hluttaw Representatives;
(c)
The [SLORC] will convene the National Convention within six months in order to
lay down the basic principles for the drafting of a firm and stable
Constitution, after meeting and co-ordinating as
mentioned in sub-clause (b) above;
2. The
[SLORC] will declare further future programmes in
accordance with the basic principles laid down at the National Convention.
By Order, (Sd) Khin Nyunt.... (WPD 4/25)
************************************
October
1992
STATEMENT [extract] BY HIS
EXCELLENCY U OHN GYAW MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND CHAIRMAN OF THE
DELEGATION OF THE UNION OF MYANMAR IN
THE GENERAL DEBATE AT THE FORTY-SEVENTH
SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY
NEW YORK, 5 OCTOBER 1992
****************
Mr. President,
This year has witnessed many significant
developments in our country's march
towards a multi-party democratic state. These developments attest to the
integrity of the State Law and Order Restoration
Council to uphold its assurances to fulfil its
declared commitment to meet the
aspirations of the people of
In
accordance with the programme of implementation, a fifteen-member Steering Committee was established on
Non-disintegration of the
Non-disintegration of national solidarity; and
Perpetuation of national sovereignty.
With the successful conclusion of the Co-ordination Meeting, the country has
crossed a threshold and an important political process has been set in motion. The
National Convention is expected to be convened at the end of the year or
by the beginning of the next year at
the latest. To this end, a Commission has already been constituted and is now actively making necessary
preparations for the holding of National Convention. Delegates representing a broad spectrum of the entire
[Source:
scan of hard copy distributed by the
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1993
October
1993
STATEMENT BY HIS EXCELLENCY U OHN GYAW MINISTER
FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND CHAIRMAN OF THE DELEGATION OF THE UNION OF MYANMAR IN THE GENERAL
DEBATE AT THE FORTY-EIGHTH SESSION OF THE
UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY, NEW YORK, 12 OCTOBER 1993
“...Mr. President,
In
Last year from this rostrum, I stated
that steps were being taken to
convene a National Convention in order to formulate guidelines for a firm and enduring constitution. I am now happy to report that the National
Convention commenced work on January
9 of this year. The Convention is an essential prerequisite for the building of a
democratic society in
- to uphold the principles of non- disintegration of
the
to nurture the universal values of
justice, liberty and equality; and
- to enable the Tatmadaw (
Following
intensive deliberations, agreement has been reached on the chapter on the
fundamental principles of the State
which is of paramount importance as it embodies the essence of the new
constitution. Following extensive discussions,
consensus has also been reached on these Fundamental Principles. In
a period of nine months, much has been
accomplished. Much of course remains to be done. The Convention is presently in recess in order to
provide time for the delegates to
make necessary preparations for the next phase which will commence on
The delegates to the Convention have had
the opportunity to study
constitutions of various countries so that they may cull the best from around the world. However,
there can be no single model that can be copied and superimposed on
On the economic front efforts are
being made to ensure a smooth
transition from a centrally planned economy to a market economy. Now that teething pains have been
overcome the economy is on the mend.
It is significant that the GDP grew by
10.9 per cent in 1992-1993. The private sector, which only a few years ago was almost non-existent, is
expanding. Today there is a growing number of investors — both local and foreign
— in the fisheries, mining, oil exploration, manufacturing
and in various other sectors. Major offshore
oil and gas finds in our waters have also heightened interest among friends and neighbours
in establishing mutually beneficial economic cooperation.
The political and economic change occurring in the country is evidenced by the vast transformations taking place in much of the country. In both urban and rural areas as well as in the border regions there is unprecedented infrastructure building: schools, hospitals, dispensaries as well as railways, roads, bridges and multi-purpose dams are going up everywhere. That the living standards of the people are rising is plain for all disinterested observers to see.
In spite of the positive political and
economic changes taking place in
It bears to be repeated that when we speak of human rights our diversity in historical, cultural and religious backgrounds must neither be minimized nor forgotten. There is no unique model of implementation of human rights that can be superimposed on a given country. Any attempt to do so would only spell chaos. If parts of the international community are now beginning to contemplate the use of the issue of human rights as a pretext to intervene in domestic affairs of States...”
[Source:
scan of hard copy distributed by the
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1994
October
1994
STATEMENT
BY HIS EXCELLENCY D OHN GYAW MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND CHAIRMAN OF THE DELEGATION OF THE UNION
OF MYANMAR IN THE GENERAL DEBATE AT THE
FORTY-NINTH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS
GENERAL ASSEMBLY, NEW YORK, 11 OCTOBER 1994
“…Mr. President,
At the initiative of the United Nations
…..
”Mr. President,
At this juncture, let me turn to another aspect of the Government's political objective - the drafting of a firm and enduring constitution. Towards this end, a National Convention has been meeting since the beginning of last year to draft a new constitution. Consensus has already been reached on the 15 Chapter Headings on the 104 fundamental principles of the State as well as the Chapters on State, State Structure and the Head of State.
At the resumed session of the National
Convention which commenced on
Mr. President,
Today, the National Convention is in
full session for further discussions on the
fundamental principles to be enshrined in the new Constitution. The
very fact that the new State Structure will be a Pyidaungsu (
As in the case with other modern Constitutions, the three organs of government — the Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary, will be properly constituted and separated as much as possible and will be able to exert reciproca1 control with checks and balances amongst themselves. Among the fundamental principles already laid down, independent administration of justice in accordance with the law; administration of justice in public except where restricted by law; and the right of defence and the right of appeal will be guaranteed. Furthermore, there will be Constitutional remedies and the Pyidaungsu Taya Hluttaw (the Supreme Court) will have the powers to issue writs. Citizens will be able to enjoy the rule of law which is the fundamental legal safeguard necessary for a democratic state. Because of the separation of power envisaged in the new Constitution, the Judiciary will be the ultimate guardian of fundamental rights. Freedom of thought, freedom of expression, freedom of belief, freedom of worship, freedom to seek a livelihood and freedom of organization will be guaranteed. There will be equality of status, equality in opportunity and equality before the law.
Mr. President,
The entire
"As we sow in our deeds, so shall we surely reap in our future destiny."
We are therefore fully confident that, with our continued dedication, determination and diligence in our national endeavour, we will surely be able to successfully establish a democratic society, based on universal values of justice, liberty and equality.
I thank you, Mr
President.”
[Source: scan of hard copy distributed by the
**********************
December
1994
STATEMENT BY U
WIN MRA PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE ALTERNATE CHAIRMAN OF THE DELEGATION OF THE
Mr. Chairman,
Concern has been
expressed in the present draft resolution that the National Convention has made no
progress. It is regrettable that the concrete progress which the National Convention has virtually
made so far is not accorded due recognition. The fact that consensus has been reached among the participants in the National Convention on the fifteen
Chapter Headings on the 104
fundamental principles of the State as well as the
Chapters on State, State Structure and the Head of State can only be
considered as substantive from Myanmar's perspective and should not be
readily and superfluously subsumed under the sweeping claims of no
progress.
[Source: scan of hard copy distributed by the
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1995
October 1995
STATEMENT BY HIS
EXCELLENCY U OHN GYAW MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND CHAIRMAN OF THE
DELEGATION OF THE UNION OF MYANMAR IN THE GENERAL DEBATE OF THE FIFTIETH
SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY, (New York, 3 October 1995)
“…
Mr. President,
Allow
me to focus briefly on some of the main issues on our national agenda:
First is the issue of ensuring the stability of the State. National
reconsolidation is an indispensable component of my Government's policy to
achieve peace and tranquillity. A national convention has been convened to draft a new constitution
which would be a harmony with present-day realities and reflect the aspirations
of the entire nation….”
[Source: scan of hard copy distributed by the
*************************
November 1995
STATEMENT BY AMBASSADOR U PE THEIN TIN REPRESENTATIVE
OP THE UNION OF MYANMAR ON AGENDA ITEM 112 (c) HUMAN RIGHTS
SITUATIONS AND REPORTS OP SPECIAL
RAPPORTEURS AND REPRESENTATIVES THIRD COMMITTEE 50TH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY, 30 NOVEMBER 1995
Mr. Chairman,
The National Convention is currently in session in
[Source: scan of hard copy distributed by the
**********************
December
1995
STATEMENT BY U WIN MRA PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE ALTERNATE
CHAIRMAN OF THE DELEAGATION OF THE UNION OF MYANMAR IN THE THIRD COMMITTEE OF THE FIFTIETH SESSION
OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY ON DRAFT RESOLUTION A/C.3/50/L52 "Situation of
Human Rights in Myanmar" New York, 11 December
1995
Mr. Chairman,
....There is a reference in
the draft to the recent developments in the composition of the National Convention. In this regard,
my delegation would like to inform the Committee that these developments are the result of a premeditated and
unilateral action of one political party to mar the success achieved so far by the National Convention….
Mr. Chairman,
Reference to the need for a substantive dialogue in the
draft resolution is irrelevant in the light
of the on-going National Convention process. The widest representative character
of this process
is evidenced by the participation of 8 categories of delegates including the
representatives of the national races. Furthermore, representatives of the 15 armed
groups which have returned to the legal fold have been accorded the opportunity
to participate in this political process, and there has never ever been such a widely-representative
political process in the post-independence history
of Myanmar and the National Convention is the only means best suited to the
present-day realities and the aspirations of the entire nation.
[Source: scan of hard copy distributed by the
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1996
September 1996
STATEMENT
BY HIS EXCELLENCY U OHN GYAW MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND CHAIRMAN OF THE
DELEGATION OF THE UNION OF MYANMAR IN THE GENERAL DEBATE OF THE FIFTY-FIRST
SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY, (New York, 27 September, 1995)
“…We in
[Source:
UN]
*********************
November 1996
INTERVENTION BY AMBASSADOR U PE THEIN TIN THE REPRESENTATIVE OF MYANMAR ON THE OCCASION OF THE SUBMISSION OF ORAL
PRESENTATION BY THE SPECIAL RAPPORTEUR OF THE
COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS ON THE SITUATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS IN MYANMAR 15 NOVEMBER 1996 NEW YORK
Madame
Chair,
There are times in the life of
countries when firm measures have to be taken to ensure the survival of the
nation. September 1988 was such a time in
[Source: scan of hard copy distributed
by the
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1997
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1998
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
1999
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2000
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2001
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2002
September
2002
STATEMENT BY HIS EXCELLENCY U WIN AUNG
MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND CHAIRMAN OF THE DELEGATION AT THE 57TH GENERAL
ASSEMBLY OF THE UNITED NATIONS
Mr. President,
Because of historical legacies, we still find ourselves having to address the
issue of national unity. We are building a nation where all our 135 national
races can regard one another as brothers - a nation where there is equality and
justice - a nation that will bring prosperity to all. These are the ideals that
motivate us. These are the goals that we are determined to achieve.
It is the goal of our government to bring to reality the aspirations of the
people of
We are firmly convinced that only through these strong foundations can we
ensure a bright future for our nation. This is a conviction born of our bitter
experiences - experiences of (14) years under parliamentary democracy and (26)
years of socialism.
In this nation building process we place special importance on poverty
eradication, particularly in rural and far flung areas. In the border areas
where most of our ethnic nationalities reside, we are implementing a programme
of all round development. We have established (24) development zones towards
this end. May I reiterate that relentless efforts for the nation building
process are motivated by our desire to bring prosperity to all our national brethren. We are
laying the groundwork so that successive governments, which will emerge under
the new constitution, will not have difficulty in overcoming future challenges.
It is a task that we are endeavouring with might and
main. Understanding, cooperation and encouragement by the international
community will hasten this process towards achieving our cherished goal.
Ostracizing and exerting political pressures will surely not help but rather
hinder the path to our cherished goal of democracy. However numerous the
obstacles are, whether we are helped or hindered, we remain resolute in our determination. For the goal we seek is in fulfillment of the
aspirations of our people. It is our noble destiny. (Source: scan of hard copy
of the statement)
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2003
August 2003
The
7-Point Roadmap
“… the government will be
implementing in a step-by-step and systematic manner the following political
program for building the nation.
(1) - Reconvening of the National Convention that has been
adjourned since 1996.
(2) - After the successful holding of the National Convention, step by step
implementation of the
process necessary for the emergence of a
genuine and disciplined democratic system.
(3) - Drafting of a new constitution in accordance with basic principles and
detailed basic principles
laid down by the National Convention.
(4) - Adoption of the constitution through national referendum.
(5) - Holding of free and fair elections for Pyithu Hluttaws (Legislative
bodies) according to the new
constitution.
(6) - Convening of Hluttaws attended by Hluttaw members in accordance with the
new constitution.
(7) - Building a modern, developed and democratic nation by the state leaders
elected by the
Hluttaw; and the government and other
central organs formed by the Hluttaw…”
*****************************************************
September
2003
STATEMENT
BY HIS EXCELLENCY U WIN AUNG, MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND CHAIRMAN OF THE
DELEGATION OF THE
“…Mr. President,
I would now like to turn to recent political
developments in my country.
Some have accused us of deliberately creating
a political impasse in order to delay the transfer of power.
If one takes a close and objective look at
the situation in the country, one will see that what needs to be done to effect
a smooth transition to democracy is first and foremost to have the political
will.
Let me assure you that we have the political
will. We are firmly committed to bringing about a systematic transformation to
democracy.
In the past, successive governments in
Myanmar failed in their attempts to build a multiparty democratic system
because they were unable to overcome the fundamental issues facing the nation
-- the issue of peace and stability, the issue of national unity among all
national races which number more than one hundred, the issue of economic
development and the issue of human resources development. Attempts were made
without first solving these fundamental problems. The country drifted and the
people suffered.
The present Government, aware that
fundamental issues must first be addressed, adopted a different approach. It
laid down four political objectives:
- Establish peace and stability in the whole nation and ensure prevalence of
law and order;
- Consolidate unity among all national races;
- Strive for a durable constitution; and
- Build a modern and democratic nation in keeping with the new constitution.
At the outset, an olive branch was extended
to the armed groups that had been fighting the government for decades.
Following successful negotiations these groups returned to the legal fold.
National unity was achieved. Peace now reigns in the entire country, providing
an opportunity for long neglected border areas to develop quickly. The gap
between urban and rural areas has been narrowed. At the same time we have taken
developmental initiatives to promote a better life for our peoples. We have
worked tirelessly to provide better health care, education and housing for all
our peoples.
We have had to rebuild the country from
scratch.
Those who come to
Today our people can look forward to the
future with confidence and renewed hope. Now
that firm foundations have been laid, we have moved on to the next phase to
commence work on the drafting of a new constitution and to build a modern
democratic nation in keeping with it.
The new Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt,
who was appointed on
-
Reconvening of the National Convention that has been adjourned since 1996;
- After the successful holding of the National Convention, step by step
implementation of the process necessary for the emergence of a genuine and
disciplined democratic system;
- Drafting of a new constitution in accordance with basic principles and
detailed
basic principles laid down by the National Convention;
- Adoption of the constitution through national referendum;
- Holding of free and fair elections for Pyithu Hluttaws (Legislative bodies)
according to the new constitution;
- Convening of Hluttaws attended by Hluttaw members in accordance with the new
constitution; and
- Building a modern, developed and democratic nation by the state leaders
elected by the Hluttaw; and the government and other central organs formed by
the Hluttaw.
All strata of the population in the country
have adopted a unified approach and supported the road map.
Mr. President,
In recent weeks,
At the same time we seek to maintain good and
friendly relations with all countries in the region and the world so that we
can thrive and prosper. We have never posed a security threat to any neighbour and have always sought to promote regional peace
and stability and the common weal of all our nations.
It is disconcerting that some countries have
chosen to turn a blind eye to the reality and have subjected
Countries that place a high premium on
democracy and human rights have a responsibility to live up to the noble ideals
in relation with others. Our common aspirations for peace and development can
only be fulfilled if nations avoid double standards and adopt a more positive
attitude.
Mr. President,
We live in challenging and dangerous times.
Conflicts and tensions in various parts of the world threaten global peace and
security. Transnational crimes and new forms of terrorism also add to our
problems.
Yet it is in our power to make the world a
better place.
Here, it is pertinent to recall what I stated
last year in these hallowed chambers. If we want to ensure a better future for
mankind we must heed the teachings of the great religions of the world. Every
religion calls for tolerance, understanding and compassion for fellow human
beings. Only when we can overcome anger and hatred and do away with false pride
and prejudice will we succeed in establishing a world in which peace and
justice prevail.
All conflicts, rivalries and hostilities have
their roots in hatred and enmity. We must try to overcome them. We should all
try to build a global order, where the strong will not impose their will on the
weak, where democracy prevails not only within nations but also in the
international arena. Let us work together, as a family of nations, to overcome
the serious common challenges we face.
Thank you.”
(Source: UN)
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2004