PDC NEWS COMMENTARY

December 2011
Compiled and commented by the Political Defiance Committee (PDC) National Council of the Union of Burma (NCUB)

T H E A C T I V I T I E S O F NLD A N D D O M E S T I C O P P O S I T I O N F O R C E S T HE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN NLD AND THE USDP GOVERNMENT

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said that she had belief in President U Thein Seins will to reform but only after a few months at Bali, Indonesia on November 19, President held a press conference and said in different tune so that the skepticism on him and his government by people is growing at home and abroad and then these people also concerned over the NLDs decision for re-registration and contesting in upcoming by-election. USDP governments Pyidaungsu Hluttaw (joint sitting of both houses) speaker U Khin Aung Myint said at media interview with Yangon Times news journal on October 31 that he recognized 1990 general election result and it could not be deleted (from history). And then President U Thein Sein signed and promulgated Amendment Law for Political Parties Registration Law on November 4 which paves way for NLDs re-registration with Election Commission. NLD Vice-Chairman U Tin Oo said on November 7 that NLD won more peoples support for its decision not to reregister and contesting in general election held in 2010 but the new government was more constructive and flexible by making some accommodations in comparison with previous government. On the same day, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi attended new governments policy forum called Workshop on Financial Development held in Naypyitaw. At the press conference held on November 14, which marks the anniversary day of her release from house arrest, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said that there were some changes in political process as the result of her meetings with President U Thein Sein and Labour Minister U Aung Kyi. On November 18, NLD held its central committee meeting and decided to reregister and stand for election. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said at this meeting that NLD would focus on amending provisions in 2008 constitution which were not beneficial to the country. On the same day, President U Thein Sein promised to Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda who was attending 19th summit held in Bali, Indonesia, that his government would cooperate with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. But after this ASEAN summit confirmed the alternate chairmanship of Myanmar in 2014, President U Thein Sein told reporters regarding the political prisoners at press conference held in Bali on November 19, that Its difficult to say about conscience. We dont accept this word conscience. We took action on these people for violating existing laws. There are many more prisoners in prison for violating the existing laws. His saying reflected the true nature and colour of the USDP government. And he also said at this press conference that their democratic reforms currently being conducted would not be identical with the democratic system of the western countries. Two days after this press conference, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said at the first anniversary celebration of Education Network, held at Judson memorial hall in Rangoon on November 21, that NLD took political risk in deciding to contest in election so that they need peoples support. Despite of efforts made by USDP leaders to show that they had friendly relationship with NLD, it is found that USDP party and Burma Army is closely watching the activities of NLD. USDP CEC
P D C N e w s C o m m e n t a r y ~ D e c e m b e r 2 0 11 P a g e 1 o f 12

member Aung Thein Lin said on November 30 that they might have fierce competition with NLD as they would also contest in all vacant seats in this upcoming by-election. Four USDP members hit NLD Twante Township youth members Ko Aung Kyaw Zaw and Ko Kyaw Moe Htet with iron rods on November 3 while these youths were giving invitation letters for NLD plenary meeting to be held in their township. Human Right Defenders and Promoters network member Ko Kyaw Lwin was similarly attacked and hit by Swanahshin (government-backed thugs) while he was on his way back home from labour union meeting held at monastery in Taloke Htaw village, Hinthada Township on November 8 by giving excuse of not taking off his footwear in monastery compound. It is learned that Chief of Staff (Army) office instructed all military units under its command to watch and monitor closely on activities of NLD after being re-registered. It is assumed that disregard of like or dislike all democratic forces at home and abroad should rally around NLD for making them strong as they took this decision by majority vote at central committee meeting democratically to reregister and contest in election. We ponder that only if the entire people stand firmly and in unity behind NLD, we can reach our goal and objective quickly.

T HE R ELATIONSHIP BETWEEN E THNIC G ROUPS AND T HE USDP G OVERNMENT

Burmese military launches massive attack against Kachin Independence Organzation (KIO) while USDP government is talking with ceasefire groups such as KIO, SSA/SSPP, SSA/RCSS, KNPP, KNU, DKBA, NMSP, CNF etc separately for peace talk. This massive general offensive launched by the government tests and tries the unity and solidarity of United Nationalities Federal Council (UNFC), the new political and military alliance of these armed groups. The group led by USDP governments representative and Railway Minister U Aung Min met KIO delegation Dr. Laja, central committee member Col. Laphai La, Col. La Awng in Mae Sai, Thailand on November 19-20. And another USDP government special delegation consists of U Aung Thaung, U Thein Zaw, U Aung Min and Kachin State constituency MP Khet Htein Nan met KIA high-level delegation led by Chairman Zaung Hara on November 29 in Ruili, China for two hours. While there are meetings and talking, at the same time, on the other side, USDP government reinforced its troops in Man Wein, Namkhan Townships in Bhamo district on Shan-Kachin States border with troops from LID 99, LID 77 and No. 1 Military Operations Command. And then they launched offensive along with local military units elsewhere in Kachin State including upper Waingmaw Township and Gayan area starting from November 6. The series of bomb blasts, guerrilla wars and engagements were found in entire Kachin State and Muse district in northern Shan State. Series of bomb blasts and ambushes took place along supply lines of government troops, MandalayBhamo highway, Mandalay-Myitkyina railroad and along Irrawaddy River. Similarly series of deadly bomb blasts killed people from Kyukok (Panseng), Namkham, Kutkai and Myitkyina. The bomb blast at a house dwelt by orphans in Thida Ward, Myitkyina on November 13 killed 10 persons including children and seriously injured 27. The news appeared as saying chemical weapons used by government troops made scattered brownish yellow rain in Maijayan in Kachin State. The government troops of LID 88 overran a KIA outpost in Momauk Township, Bhamo district on November 17. And also government troops overran KIA 27th
P D C N e w s C o m m e n t a r y ~ D e c e m b e r 2 0 11 P a g e 2 o f 12

Battalion HQ under command of KIA 3rd Brigade in Manwein Township, Bhamo district on November 28. When Shan State Progressive Party/ Shan State Army-North (SSPP, SSA-N) met government delegation at Naypyitaw preliminary meeting, the former demanded the latter to withdraw all its troops stationed around their Wanhai HQ, to observe nationwide ceasefire, and to make political engagement with UNFC. Unprecedented meeting between RCSS/SSA-South delegation and USDP government delegation led by Railway Minister U Aung Min took place in Mae Sai, Thailand on November 19 and they reportedly reached preliminary agreement to continue this peace talk with Shan State government on detail terms for ceasefire agreement. One of the first Burmese President Sao Shwe Thikes sons and In-charge of Euro-Burma Office (EBO) Harn Yawnghwe facilitated the realization of this meeting and USDP government delegation led by U Aung Min was accompanied by Dr. Nay Win Maung and Dr. Kyaw Yin Hlaing from Rangoon based EGRESS and U Tin Maung Than from Myanmar Fisheries Federation (MFF), it is learnt. USDP government delegation led by U Aung Min met KNU delegation consisted of C-in-C General Mutu Say Pho, Pado Saw David Taw and Pado Ah Toe, met KNPP delegation led by C-in-C Maj. Gen. Bi Htoo, CNF delegation led by chairman Pu Zin Cung, Joint general secretary (1) and Foreign Relations In-charge in Mae Sai, Thailand on November 19-20 separately. At these meetings, U Aung Min said to ethnic armed groups that he came and met them on behalf of the President to invite to further peace talks which would be held separately and he focused on these meetings to set date, time and venue for these meetings. The President reportedly offered them talk on ceasefire at the first phase, development projects in the ethnic areas concerned in the second phase, and to hold nationwide convention like Panglong Conference in the third phase. He also presented 4-point proposal for ceasefire agreement with these ethnic armed groups. They are to hold state-level meetings, opening liaison offices, further negotiations with central government, signing ceasefire agreement and after that giving free passage without bearing arms. KNU and KNPP replied to the government delegations that they would send their reply only after discussing these deliberations with their central committees concerned but CNF and SSA/RCSS reportedly agreed to continue state-level talks. Despite of these talks, the fighting between KNU and government troops are continuing continuously throughout November. KNU issued press release dated November 24 denying news of having ceasefire agreement with government soon. USDP government delegation led by U Thein Zaw met DKBA breakaway group delegation led by Vice Chief of Staff Brig. Gen. Mo Shay in Pa-an on November 3 again and signed the final ceasefire agreement on November 5. This breakaway group is led by Maj. Gen. Saw Labwe and they fought back SPDC government in November last year. Mon State USDP government Chief Minister U Ohn Myint sent his 5-member peace facilitating group to NMSP HQ on November 12 and offered their 4-point ceasefire agreement. NMSP chairman Nai Htaw Mon replied on November 18 that they would discuss this matter at their central committee meeting to be held in December but they prefer government to talk with their alliance group UNFC only.
P D C N e w s C o m m e n t a r y ~ D e c e m b e r 2 0 11 P a g e 3 o f 12

It is assumed that the activities of USDP government suggest their systematic strategy of driving wedge among the UNFC member organizations. Singling out KIA from other ethnic armed groups and launching massive offensive on them, and at the same time, they are holding peace talks with these armed groups separately, not offering similar peace proposal to affiliated member organizations of this alliance group UNFC namely Kachin Nationalities Organization (KNO), Lahu Democratic Oraganization (LDU), National United Party of Arakan (NUPA), Palaung State Liberation Front (PSLF), Pa-O National Liberation Organization (PNLO) and Wa National Organization(WNO). Revolutionary alliances are found practically weak in unity and solidarity. Some UNFC members namely KIO, KNPP, KNU and NMSP are still demanding and standing as the unified UNFC in negotiations with government but SSP/SSA and CNF are found preparing to continue talk with government separately and to agree on ceasefire. Similarly NMSP resigned from National Democratic Front (NDF) on November 16. The differences in attitude on NLDs decision of reregistering and standing for election among ethnic groups and alliance groups are found too. Democratic Alliance of Burma (DAB) issued its statement on November 15 to review comprehensively on NLDs decision for reregistering party with election commission but Ethnic Nationalities Council (ENC) Vice-Chairman Dr. Salai Lian Hmung said on November 20 that they welcomed NLDs decision. KIO said that they would wait and see NLDs decision to reregistering party and contesting in election but NMSP chairman Nai Htaw Mon said on November 20 that they welcomed NLDs decision.
T HE A CTIVITIES OF NLD AND D OMESTIC O PPOSITION F ORCES

It is found that there were differences among NLD members on party re-registration and contesting in election. Two MPs-elect from 1990 general election and 32 NLD members including Daw Naw Ohn Hla issued their position paper under the title Our Position on survival of NLD, opposing partys stand of re-registration and sent it to Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and party CEC members. NLD CEC member U Win Tin expressed his stand by saying that re-registering of party was not controversial but contesting in election must be considered cautiously. CRPP meeting held on November 7 urged NLD to consider seriously the pros and cons of taking decision to contest in election. At the party CEC meeting held at Daw Aung San Suu Kyis residence on November 8, party decided to call central committee to decide on party registration and standing for election. Though the party had not yet taken its decision on this issue officially, party spokesman U Nyan Win hinted BBC on November 11 that party is likely to reregister and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi is likely to stand for election too. Similarly NLD Youth Task Force issued their position paper on November 16 just before CC meeting as saying since the meeting between Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and President U Thein Sein, Union Minister U Aung Kyi produced common agenda for rule of law in Burma, getting rid of differences and dissensions among the people, issues beneficial for the people, party should be reregistered and should contest in upcoming by-election. At the NLD central committee meeting held on November 18, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said that 1990 general election result had been officially recognized in government gazette so that no one can destroy or cover-up this result but call for convening parliament is no longer practical. NLD party CEC member U Ohn Kyaing said that 106 CC members who attended this meeting from states and regions unanimously endorsed the decision to reregister and contest in upcoming elections. Daw
P D C N e w s C o m m e n t a r y ~ D e c e m b e r 2 0 11 P a g e 4 o f 12

Aung San Suu Kyi said that her party would focus on amending provisions in the 2008 constitution which are not beneficial to the nation and the people. NLD party CEC meeting held on November 22 discussed on matters for reregistering party with election commission and then CEC members including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi met party leaders coming from States and Regions units and then they roughly discussed for election strategy for upcoming by-elections after being allowed by election commission for reregistering. They also decided to field Daw Aung San Suu Kyi as candidate and not to use partys former election symbol, bamboo hat, any more. NLD party would not be registered as an old party but as a new party with election commission. The party assigned 21-member group (11 female, 10 male) consisted of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, U Tin Oo, U Win Tin, ethnic and youths sent by 14 regions and states, as the party founders for registering with election commission as per the political parties registration law. In reorganization of the party, the party would organize up to 1 million party members, one of these founder group members, Daw May Win Myint, expressed. The party registration application was submitted at Naypyitaw on November 25 and the election commission accepted their application. Party CEC member U Nyan Win explained on submission of application for party registration at the meeting held on November 28 and formed the election victory committee was also formed with 11-member group led by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi on the same day. It is found that many differences and different opinions appeared among alliance political parties, revolutionary organizations and Burmese nationals at home and abroad, on NLDs decision to reregister and contest in upcoming elections. SNLD party spokesman Sai Leik said that they would not reregister and contest in upcoming byelections and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi would lose trust of ethnic nationalities if she decided to reregister her party and contest in election while many ethnic leaders, student leaders, monk leaders totaling hundreds of such political prisoners are still behind bars and serving their prison sentences. Because of NLDs reregistering/contesting decision, the future and existence of Committee Representing Peoples Parliament (CRPP) which was formed on 1990 general election result became uncertain, ethnic leaders from this alliance group said. Similarly Arakan League for Democracy (ALD) party leader U Aye Thar Aung said on November 21 that ethnic political parties would not consider re-registration of their parties as long as the political prisoners are still behind bars. Secretary U Thein Oo of Members of Parliament Union (MPU) consisted of MPs-elect from 1990 general election in exile said on November 21 that they welcomed the NLDs decision. Prime Minister Dr. Sein Win of National Coalition Government of Union of Burma (NCGUB) said on November 20 that they dont need to stand as exile government in the name of NCGUB any more if NLD contests in elections. Its Information Minister Dr. Tint Swe also said on November 25 that reorganization and realignment of exile opposition political organizations such as NLD-LA, NCGUB, MPU and NCUB were needed. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said that she could not accept the sayings of standing for election will undermine her position and dignity at the meeting with party Youth Affairs in-charge and Youths Assistance Providing groups, held at party head office on November 19. She also said at RFA programme of Questions to Aung San Suu Kyi by listeners, broadcast on November 25 that cooperation with new government dominated by retired senior army officers was not a bet and game.
P D C N e w s C o m m e n t a r y ~ D e c e m b e r 2 0 11 P a g e 5 o f 12

2010 general election contesting political parties welcomed and supported the NLDs decision. National Unity Party (NUP) said on November 7 that their party would welcome if NLD registered and contested in election. National Democratic Force (NDF) which is breakaway faction of NLD and contested in 2010 general election also welcomed NLDs decision and its policy affair committee leaders U Khin Maung Swe and U Sein Hla Oo expressed that they would join with NLD if NLD accepted. 10-party group of Friends of Democracy welcomed NLDs decision of registering/ contesting on November 21. Shan Nationalities Development Party (SNDP) treasurer U Saw Myint Than said that they were ready to discuss and negotiate with NLD for seat sharing arrangement in upcoming by-elections. Mon National Democracy Party Vice-Chairman (2) Nai Tin Aung said that they saw NLDs decision to reregister their party as constructive sign but they would need to wait and see on their attitude on ethnic affairs. Ko Tun Myint Aung from 88-generation student group said on November 20 that they did not believe in current parliament but they would rally around Daw Aung San Suu Kyi who chose this parliamentary politics path. But All Burma Monks Alliance (ABMA) issued its statement which says NLDs decision is contrary to its own Shwegondaing Declaration and USDP governments 2008 constitution could not resolve the political issues in Burma. Some democratic organizations based on border and in exile issued their statements which warned NLD that they could not implement their objectives in USDP dominated parliament. As the NLD partys activities, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi met former Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohammed at Traders Hotel in Rangoon on November 3, she and her party senior leaders met US Assistant Secretary of State Mr. Michael Posner and special envoy on Burma Mr. Derek Mitchell on November 4. On November 4, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi attended Conference on Environment, Green Economy and Development which was held in Burma for the first time. On November 9, she also attended along with her party senior leaders, 21st death anniversary memorial alms offering ceremony of party leader U Maung Ko. At the ceremony held on the first anniversary of her release from her house arrest on November 14, the party released the list of 591 political prisoners compiled by NLD, and she said that she would continue her effort for the release of all of these political prisoners. She visited Ah Mei Ein free school being run in Hlaingtharyar, Rangoon on November 17 along with visiting British International Development Minister Mr. Andrew Mitchell. She also said on that day that she was pragmatically discussing and consulting with donors and aid organizations for the elimination of poverty of the people and for uplifting their livelihoods. She attended 90th anniversary Union Day which falls on November 20 and urged the people to work for emergence of the secured education system. She received visiting French Human Rights Minister Francois Din Murray and France Ambassador to Burma and his entourage at her home on November 22. She also received business tycoon Tay Za who is believed to be having close connection with former military dictator Senior General Than Shwe and his family, at her residence on November 30, DVB reported. As another activity of NLD party, they opened a branch school of Bayda Institute in Taunggyi, Shan State on November 10. The NLD party youths led series of blood donations for three days starting from November 12 at Thingangyun model hospital, Ahlone Central Womens Hospital and Childrens Hospital. NLD Youth network visited 12 cities in Sagaing Region and Kachin State to listen to the
P D C N e w s C o m m e n t a r y ~ D e c e m b e r 2 0 11 P a g e 6 o f 12

grassroots opinions on partys decision of reregistering/contesting. The party held bravery award gold medal giving ceremony given to U Win Tin and re-ordination religious ceremony for 12 monks who were recently released from prisons, at Magwe Priyatti learning monastery in Dagon satellite town on November 12. About 150 political activists gathered at Rangoon Botataung pagoda on November 20 and held the prayer service for release of political prisoners and ceasing civil war. On November 25, similar movement for releasing political prisoners and anti-civil war poster campaign was launched at bus stop, markets, schools and places close to military units in 3 States and Regions including Kachin State. A monk movement led by former political prisoners imprisoned after taking part in 2007 saffron revolution namely U Thawbaga, U Marga, U Seindama, U Beindala, U Zawtipala took place on November 14 at about 5 oclock in the morning. They staged peaceful demonstration at Maha Buddhawun museum in Mandalay Mahamyatmuni Buddha image. They started their demonstration on November 14, 5 a.m. and demanded internal peace and releasing all political prisoners. Many student monks and people gathered there and cheered them and the monks preached sermon to them. Upon the request made by Masoyane monastery abbot and Mandalay Region Sangha organization presidium member monks, they shifted their demonstration to old Masoyane monastery and continued their demonstration until November 16 in the afternoon. All Burma Monks Alliance and exile democratic forces supported this monk movement. Chin State legislators from Chin National Party (CNP) party signed their petition and sent it to President on November 9 in protest of destroying and setting on fire the holy crosses in Chin State and Sagaing Region. As for the farmers movement, 10-member Friends of Democracy group met on November 6 and discussed on various issues of land to the tillers, forced seizure of farmlands, pulses and beans farmers are making losses etc. Moreover they sent their petition to the officials concerned demanding to stay on the passing of Farmland Bill introduced to parliament by USDP party as it will make grievances to the farmers. Ma Suu Suu Nwe met over 100 farmers from Magwe Region in Pyi city on November 9 and discussed on farmer issues. About 200 farmers from Kyaukme Town, Shan State visited District Administrative Office on November 7 and demanded to resolve their issues of over 1,000 acres farmlands seized by Military Operations Command No. 1 in 1997. 115 villagers from Shwe Tamar village, Minbya Township, Rakhine State sent their petition to Rakhine State government chief minister demanding to return their 22 acres of farmlands seized by Township Administration Office. Rangoon Region, Botataung Township court dismissed bail plea submitted by 7 farmers and their lawyer U Pho Phyu on November 11. These farmers and their lawyer were arrested for staging demonstration without permission granted by the authorities concerned. The local authorities searched the residence of U Myint Naing who helped farmers on November 14 at midnight 1 a.m. and then he was arrested and prosecuted with Video Law. Myanmar Industrial Zone Trade Union was formed with 15 executive members in Rangoon on November 27 for providing aid in demanding labour rights, benefits and entitlements. Textile and Leather industry trade union was also formed with 9 committee members in Bago on November 24 and applied for registration at Labour Ministry. Lawyers, medical doctors and students submitted their appeals to President and Myanmar Human Right Commission to restore their professional licenses, which were revoked by authorities concerned for their involvement in politics and to
P D C N e w s C o m m e n t a r y ~ D e c e m b e r 2 0 11 P a g e 7 o f 12

readmit the students at their schools. And then they held a press conference next day. The workers from Hlaingtharyar garment industry visited NLD head office on November 23 and presented their case of being fired from their works without paying any compensation. The officials from Myanmar Motion Picture Association and the movie industry community met on November 16 at their office in Wingabar Street, Bahan Township and discussed on movie censor board issues such as whether it should be existed or not, protesting against drafting law without the opinion of film industry etc. Over 200 domestic reporters held a press conference and expressed their protest against upper house MP and business tycoon U Khin Shwe for what he said in disparaging the media and media persons. They signed their petition on this case and sent it to Pyudaungsu Hluttaw (joint sitting of both houses) speaker on November 24.

T H E USDP G O V E R N M E N T A N D D O M E S T I C S I T U AT I O N T HE S ITUATION OF T HE USDP G OVERNMENT

The USDP government is trying to restore normal relation with western countries by riding the Arab Spring waves and at the same time they cautiously maintain the relationship with neighbouring countries and regional countries including China. Commander-in-Chief of Armed Forces Gen. Min Aung Hlaing received visiting US special envoy for Burma Mr. Derek Mitchell on November 3 at Naypyitaw. C-in-C was accompanied by Lt. Gen. Thaung Aye and Lt. Gen Sein Win from Chief of Staff (Army) office, Middle East Regional Command Commander Brig. Gen. Mya Tun Oo, Central Region Command Commander Brig. Gen. Ye Aung and military officers from C-in-C office in his official visit to Vietnam on November 14. He met Vietnamese leaders led by PM Nguyen Tan Dung and discussed and exchange views on regional security, defence strategy, exchange of intelligence information, exchange of military officers, aid in military medical care and other bilateral issues. Gen. Min Aung Hlaing signed Memorandum of Understanding on defence cooperation with Vietnamese Gen. Phung Quang Thanh, it is learnt. Similarly 14-member military delegation led by Vice C-in-C of Armed Forces Lt. Gen. Soe Win paid official visit to Bangladesh on November 22. This visit is the return visit after Bangladesh Chief of Staff Mohammed Abdul Mubeen visited Burma from May 23-27, 2011. The purpose of this visit is strengthening friendship and military cooperation between two armies. After Bangladesh decided to build advanced air base in Cox Bazar which is on Bangladesh-Burma border, Burmese military delegation led by Chief of Staff (Air Force) Lt. Gen. Myat Hein paid visit to Bangladesh in April this year. Two weeks after his return from Vietnam and just 3 days before the visit of US Secretary of State, Gen. Min Aung Hlaing made surprised visit to China again and signed the mutual military cooperation treaty on November 27. In this visit, he was accompanied by Lt. Gen.Hla Htay Win, Lt. Gen. Kyaw Swe, Lt. Gen. Yar Pye and Northeast regional command commander Maj. Gen. Aung Kyaw Zaw. The mutual military cooperation treaty was signed by Gen. Min Aung Hlaing and People Liberation Army General Staff Gen. Chan Bingde on November 29. Gen. Min Aung Hlaing could meet and discuss Chinese Vice-President Xi Jinping and expressed that Sino-Burma relation would remain unchanged disregard of changing world political situation in any direction. The news of probable visit by new C-in-C to China has been circulated since May this year but he could made his first visit only in November this year. We assume that the purpose of his visit is to
P D C N e w s C o m m e n t a r y ~ D e c e m b e r 2 0 11 P a g e 8 o f 12

ease the concern over growing military relations by Burma with US and Vietnam which have tense relation with China. US Secretary of State Mrs. Hillary Clinton was not received and greeted by her counterpart U Wunna Maung Lwin at the Naypyitaw airport on November 30 in the evening and he sent Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs U Myo Myint instead. Moreover the flyers along the road to Naypyitaw from airport was for welcoming Belarus PM not for US Secretary of State. The senior officials of USDP government were found meeting and receiving special adviser of UN Secretary General Mr. Nambia who was on 5-day official visit to Burma and Malaysia former PM Mahathir Mohammed and British International Development Minister Mr. Andrew Mitchell. Burmese government delegation led by President U Thein Sein met Japanese PM, foreign dignitaries including UN Secretary General separately and invited UNSG Mr. Ban Ki-moon to visit Burma while they were attending ASEAN summit meeting. Signs of instability and uncertainty are seen in this 8-month old new government. Former Lt. Gen. and Tanintharyi Region Chief Minister U Khin Zaw was forced to retire on November 23 for his alleged role in corruption and misuse of power. And also cabinet reshuffle was made for the second time in this month. President U Thein Sein presented his cabinet reshuffle to Pyidaungsu Hluttaw in November as saying two ministries were reorganized, two union Ministers, former Lt. Gen. U Ohn Myint, Ministry of Cooperatives, former Brig. Gen. and Minister of National Planning and Economic Development and Ministry of Livestock and Fishery U Tin Naing Thein were assigned with new portfolios. Information Minister U Khaw Hsan denied the news of having hardliners in the government to Wall Street Journal on November 15 and he also said that current reforms and changes are irreversible. Senior Gen. Than Shwe lived peacefully at his home by reading books, he added. On November 24, state-run papers reported that Senior Gen. (retired) U Than Shwe and wife Daw Kyaing Kyaing donated USD 1,300, 10 polished and cut rubies, one Myeik pearl and golden ring with market price of 488,000 kyat to tooth relic of Lord Buddha which was brought from China. Despite of U Khaw Hsans denial, House of People (lower house) speaker Thura Shwe Mahn admitted at the press conference held on December 1 that some of them were unhappy with the current reforms being conducted and checks and balances in three pillars of democracy. Similarly presidential political advisers U Ko Ko Hlaing and Dr. Nay Zin Latt cautiously admitted that there could be different opinions in the government under the democratic system. Regarding the retirement of Senior Gen. Than Shwe, lower house speaker Thura Shwe Mahn reiterated that Senior Gen. Than Shwe actually retired from his posts and he absolutely no longer belong to USDP, government and judicial institutions in replying to question raised by U Myat Khaing (editor-in-chief of Snap Shot journal) at the press conference held on November 25 but he didnt say anything on whether control of armed forces by him from behind the scene or not and no such questions were raised at this press conference. It is found that there are some problems in coordination between lower house and upper house and also among the three pillars of democracy; legislative, judiciary and executive. House of Nationalities (upper house) speaker U Aung Khin Myint decided on October 28 that if there was doubt and controversial in bills passed by lower house, these bills must be sent to constitutional court as judicial
P D C N e w s C o m m e n t a r y ~ D e c e m b e r 2 0 11 P a g e 9 o f 12

review for judging whether these bills were constitutional or unconstitutional. And then the dispute erupted between two houses. Any bills passed by lower housed but not yet passed by upper house are incomplete or halfway laws. According to the resolution passed by U Khin Aung Myint in upper house, criticisms and attacks made on speaker of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw (joint sitting of both houses) will be liable to punishment. If these halfway laws are sent to Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, it means obstruction and disturbing to the right decision taken by speaker of Pyidaungsuu Hluttaw, so that it cannot be allowed, U Khin Aung Myint reportedly threatened the lawmakers. Lower House moved motion on November 1 to nullify the resolution made by Pyidaungsu Hluttaw speaker U Khin Aung Myint as it was unconstitutional as per the provisions in the 2008 constitution and then it was unanimously passed by the house. Lower House speaker Thura Shwe Mahn reportedly said that resolution passed by U Khin Aung Myint could undermine the dignity of the parliament. At the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw session conducted on November 18, speaker U Khin Aung Myint withdrew his controversial resolution by saying that he withdrew his resolution to leave fine tradition in this house and to pay respect to the lower house, the state-run papers reported next day. Regarding the issue of releasing political prisoners, we found that the differences among the members of National Defence and Security Council which is consisted of 6 senior most military officers, retired senior military officers and one civilian USDP member. Burmese people, international community, both houses of parliament and Myanmar Human Rights Commission sent their request to President to release all of these political prisoners but the President was bitterly opposed by this powerful Defence/Security Council and the final decision on releasing these prisoners had to be changed at the last minute, according to the reliable inner circle sources. Then they shifted some popular figure political prisoners such as Miin Ko Naing, Ma Nilar Thein, Ashin Gambira, U Khun Tun Oo etc to prisons nearer to their families. We assumed that this is to divert attention of Burmese people and international community. The bill for selecting Ward/Village tract level administrators which was stalled in legislature proceedings at the first Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, second regular session in October in the backdrop of bitter opposition in the house was introduced in the house again with some modifications and then passed along with some other bills such as Peaceful demonstration and marching in procession law, Private Schools Law and then the speaker made an announcement on November 25 that the houses would be adjourned for about one and half month. We analyse that there are power struggles and factionalism in the ruling USDP camp by judging on what U Shwe Mahn and U Khin Aung Myint did and said in the parliament. It has not yet reached full-blown stage as they have the common concern over their common interests. As per the provisions in 2008 constitution, only military clique led by Gen. Min Aung Hlaing can make the final say so that we assume United States of America should approach them and persuade them to stand behind the people.
T HE S OCIO - ECONOMIC S ITUATION OF T HE P EOPLE

The socio-economic situation of the people is found still deteriorating and lowering and organized crimes like massive corruption and violence by the sword wielding mob in daylight in downtown area are seen in this period. Like the action movie, a sword wielding gang killed Ko Kyaw Min at Nwetharki Street in North
P D C N e w s C o m m e n t a r y ~ D e c e m b e r 2 0 11 P a g e 10 o f 12

Okkalapa, Rangoon in the third week of November. It is learned that anarchic violent crimes are being committed elsewhere in the country and they are threatening the rule of law and challenging the law and order situation. Despite of the propaganda made by government as working for clean government, more bribery and corruption cases are found in all government apparatus. It is learned that three employees from state owned New Light of Myanmar were arrested and prosecuted for misappropriation of the government fund to the tune of 800 million kyat and up to 67 customs officials were found getting involved in the illegally importing of 33 vehicles in containers from Rangoon port without paying customs duties. Despite of taking power by new government, human rights violations and religious persecutions are still occurring. Benedict Roger from Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) testified in US Congress Foreign Relations Committee hearing held on November 17 that rampant religious persecutions put Burma in the list of CPC (Country of Persecution Concern?). Resolution on Burma Human Right violation initiated by 48 countries was passed by 66thUN General Assembly with 98 votes in favour on November 21. David Brickey Bloomer from Save the Children Burma office said on November 9 that more women from Burma were sold to Chinese as bride by the human traffickers because of their poverty and compelling situation of becoming preys of these traffickers in seeking greener pasture by working in foreign countries. The Report issued by International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL) in 2011 says that Burma is still in the list of worst countries of using landmines along with Libya and Israel and these landmines killed 274 people in Burma in last year alone.
I N T E R N AT I O N A L P R E S S U R E

US Assistant Secretary of Democracy, Human Right and Labour Michael Posner who was on 4-day visit to Burma and US government special envoy for Burma Derek Mitchell said to political parties at the meeting with them on November 1 that relaxing on economic sanctions imposed by US on Burma depended on release of political prisoners, freedom of political parties in Burma and peace building. The US State Department spokesman Ms. Victoria Nuland said on November 7 at the press conference that US would respond to every step of reforms Burmese government took. Similarly US Secretary of State Ms. Hillary Clinton said on November 10 that if Burmese government made more reform movements, US government would be ready to be friend with Burma. US President Barrack Obama also said on November 18 on his visit to Australia that US must say clearly to Burma on future agendas including human rights violations to be tackled and taken by Burmese government for the better relationship with US. Leading Senator in Foreign Relations Committee Richarg Luger urged Ms. Hillary Clinton to discuss seriously with Burmese government on acquiring nuclear technology from North Korea for nuclear weapons production, US based 12 human rights organizations also urge her to make demand to President U Thein Sein to stop crimes against humanity being committed by Burmese army, and US based United States Commission for International Religious Freedom (USCIR) urged Ms. Clinton to put religious freedom agenda in her discussions and talks with Burmese government.

P D C N e w s C o m m e n t a r y ~ D e c e m b e r 2 0 11

P a g e 11 o f 12

US Senate East Asia and Pacific Affairs Sub-committee Chairman Senator Jim Webb issued statement on November 18 welcoming US Secretary of States visit to Burma but US Congress Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Heana Ros Lehtinen expressed his concern on November 29 over giving wrong message to Burmese government, supporting their sham and superficial reforms. After his visit to Burma, British International Development Minister Mr. Andrew Mitchell said that though some progresses had been seen in Burma, Burma needed to immediately release all political prisoners to show as the signs of real progress. Australian PM Ms. Julia Gillard warned Burmese government on November 19 that only if Burmese government kept its promises for fully implementing democracy and human rights reforms, Australia would attend ASEAN summit to be held in Burma in 2014. Current ASEAN Chairman Indonesia FM Marty Natalegawa said on November 15 at the press conference that ASEAN foreign ministers hoped Burmese government would show them irreversible democratic reforms if they took ASEAN chairmanship in 2014. South Africa International Relations and Cooperation Minister Kenneth Mubu issued a statement on November 6 demanding to withdraw the acceptance of credentials of Burmese ambassador to South Africa retired Brig. Gen. Myint Naung for his role in war crimes and crimes against humanity. UN special rapporteur for human rights in Burma Mr. Tomas Ojea Quintana demanded Burmese government to let ICRC visit prisons across the Burma to check the accurate list of political prisoners, to release immediately all of these political prisoners, and to stop all offensives being launched in ethnic inhabited areas. UN special envoy for Burma Mr. Vijay Nambia said at the press conference held at Rangoon airport on November 4 that UN placed high hope on Burma for its reforms and he submitted his report on progress in Burma to UN Security Council closed door meeting. In the article appeared in a state-owned paper, China warned that China welcomed the efforts made by Burmese government for better and friendly relations with western countries but they would not tolerate any activity undermining the Chinese interests. US State Department spokesman Mark Toner said on November 30 that Ms. Hillary Clintons visit to Burma did not concern with China.
// End of Report // Sunday, December 11, 2011 // End of Translation // Sunday, December 25, 2011

P D C N e w s C o m m e n t a r y ~ D e c e m b e r 2 0 11

P a g e 12 o f 12