NEW YORK -- Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva plans to pay a one-day visit to Burma next monthb to confirm cooperation between the two countries.
Mr Abhisit will hear the Burmese government’s plans for after the election on Nov 7 and discuss the status of former opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, other jailed prisoners and the problems of some ethnics minorities groups.
He is scheduled to visit the neighbouring country on Oct 11.
Foreign Minister Kasit Piromya said Thailand will assure Burma about the preparation of the border negotiation, connectivity, roads and bridges building as well as the progress of the roads building project at Kho Khareng which is funded by the Thai government.
“The Thai government also wants to learn more about the Burmese privatization which has just started with its state enterprises and the open market policy. We are interested to learn which sectors will be of interest to the Thai private sector and confirm our readiness to cooperate on the economic front,’’ said the foreign minister.
Source: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/asia/198938/pm-to-visit-burma-next-month
Thursday, 30 September 2010
Wednesday, 29 September 2010
Burma rejects criticism of elections
Burma's foreign minister on Tuesday rejected international criticism of the country's election insisting that the junta is committed to a "free and fair'' vote.
The minister, U Nyan Win, said the election in Burma on November 7, which the opposition has said would be a sham, was "a critical phase of its political transformation process.''
He told the UN General Assembly that more than 3,000 candidates from 37 parties would take part in the vote for 1,171 parliamentary seats.
"Such a large participation made it crystal clear that the elections become virtually inclusive,'' the minister said.
U Nyan Win made no mention of detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, nor UN and international demands that she be freed for the vote.
"The people will exercise their democratic right to elect the representatives of their own choice who can serve their interest better,'' the minister said.
"With its ample experiences and lessons learned in holding multiparty general elections in the past history, Burma is confident in its ability to conduct the elections in an orderly manner.
"Whatever the challenges facing us, we are committed to do our best for the successful holding of the free and fair general elections for the best interest of the country and its people.''
A UN ministerial group said Monday that the election will not be credible unless the military rulers release Aung San Suu Kyi and other opposition detainees.
The group _ which included ministers from neighbors China and India, Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia as well as Britain and the United States _ "clearly reiterated the need for the election process to more inclusive, participatory and transparent,'' UN chief Ban Ki-moon said.
"Members called for steps to be taken for the release of political detainees including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi,'' he added.
The minister, U Nyan Win, said the election in Burma on November 7, which the opposition has said would be a sham, was "a critical phase of its political transformation process.''
He told the UN General Assembly that more than 3,000 candidates from 37 parties would take part in the vote for 1,171 parliamentary seats.
"Such a large participation made it crystal clear that the elections become virtually inclusive,'' the minister said.
U Nyan Win made no mention of detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, nor UN and international demands that she be freed for the vote.
"The people will exercise their democratic right to elect the representatives of their own choice who can serve their interest better,'' the minister said.
"With its ample experiences and lessons learned in holding multiparty general elections in the past history, Burma is confident in its ability to conduct the elections in an orderly manner.
"Whatever the challenges facing us, we are committed to do our best for the successful holding of the free and fair general elections for the best interest of the country and its people.''
A UN ministerial group said Monday that the election will not be credible unless the military rulers release Aung San Suu Kyi and other opposition detainees.
The group _ which included ministers from neighbors China and India, Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia as well as Britain and the United States _ "clearly reiterated the need for the election process to more inclusive, participatory and transparent,'' UN chief Ban Ki-moon said.
"Members called for steps to be taken for the release of political detainees including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi,'' he added.
Tuesday, 28 September 2010
"Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae"
Burmese Video: "Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae" Ads (Sunrise Shock) 08 September 2010
Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) today releases the Burmese video trailer, "Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae" (Sunrise Shock).
We are humbled to present the preview of our work, "Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae" (Sunrise Shock) video which is the collective efforts of the Burma democratic activists from UK.
We hope that this piece could be one of the corner stones when we could write the true Burma history.
We will share the video with all the democratic activists and organizations around the world as well as people inside Burma so that we can have the opportunity to see two different perspectives compare with junta's propaganda video, Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar-Phu-Tae-Kyar, with full of wrong and misleading information.
We are well aware of the challenges ahead trying to distribute our video inside Burma but we will use the modern internet technology believing that it could help us promoting the good news inside Burma.
Please see the link at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=biRw3h...
For more information please contact Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) http://www.bdcburma.org
Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) today releases the Burmese video trailer, "Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae" (Sunrise Shock).
We are humbled to present the preview of our work, "Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae" (Sunrise Shock) video which is the collective efforts of the Burma democratic activists from UK.
We hope that this piece could be one of the corner stones when we could write the true Burma history.
We will share the video with all the democratic activists and organizations around the world as well as people inside Burma so that we can have the opportunity to see two different perspectives compare with junta's propaganda video, Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar-Phu-Tae-Kyar, with full of wrong and misleading information.
We are well aware of the challenges ahead trying to distribute our video inside Burma but we will use the modern internet technology believing that it could help us promoting the good news inside Burma.
Please see the link at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=biRw3h...
For more information please contact Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) http://www.bdcburma.org
Monday, 27 September 2010
Burmese Video: "Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae" Ads
Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) is embarking on media campaign so as to encourage everyone's participation working for democratisation of Burma. Media play important role to restore democracy in Burma so that Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) is producing the video, "Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae", to share with all the people inside Burma so that they can have the opportunity to see two different perspectives compare with junta's propaganda video, Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar-Phu-Tae-Kyar which is full of wrong information".
In the video, there will be the information regarding why we should boycott junta's planned sham election which will be held on 7 November 2010. Addition, there will be more information about junta's unilaterally adopted sham constitution and why we must collectively lobby international governments including UNSC to to declare military entrenching constitution as NULL & VOID. This is part of the answer for Burma crisis.
For more information please contact Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) http://www.bdcburma.org/
This video reflects the real life of an activist. Being an activist is not easy in Burma as one's need to sacrifice their love life for the sake of the country. People scare to associate with the activists. So there are a lot of untold heartbreaking love stories of the political activists.
In the video, there will be the information regarding why we should boycott junta's planned sham election which will be held on 7 November 2010. Addition, there will be more information about junta's unilaterally adopted sham constitution and why we must collectively lobby international governments including UNSC to to declare military entrenching constitution as NULL & VOID. This is part of the answer for Burma crisis.
For more information please contact Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) http://www.bdcburma.org/
This video reflects the real life of an activist. Being an activist is not easy in Burma as one's need to sacrifice their love life for the sake of the country. People scare to associate with the activists. So there are a lot of untold heartbreaking love stories of the political activists.
Memo-potraits of U Ohn Mg(Writter-Mg Ni Mar) & his daughter-Mar Mar Oo.
Attn;
All commarades & friends sir;
Sayar-BaMao Tin Aung talked us that we shall have to measure the value of the person with the ruler how much could he serve the duties of his crossed historical era and so, we should ourselve- ask back us with this question and some faced darely this question but some didn't dare to face this question and so,we shall have to recognize the persons,could be measured by this ruler as the historical value persons.
Now,our leaders, commarades & friends had to greet-depart from us.For example! Tha Khin Own Myint,writer-Moe Hein & Mg Ni Mar(U Own Mg),father of Mar Mar Oo,the 88-student' generation leader and the former political prisoner with Min Ko Naing,Ko Ko Kyi,Jimmy,Htay Kyawe,Mya Aye,Pyone Cho & others.They could serve faithfully bravely the greatest duties of his crossed historical eras,Anti-Imperialism & Facisisism and National Independence Libration,People's democratic revolution and the democratic avtivities under Burma Junta Regimes.
Thakhin Own Myint could serve the greatest duties of his crossed historical long era of Anti-Imperialism & Facisisim and National Independence Libration,People's Democratic revolution and the democratic activities under Burma Junta Regimes as the Journalist & politician with Bojoke-Aung Sann to us and he had to arrive to KoKoKyum and had to stay at Insein-prison & others with us and could serve & take-care of the generations of the historical leaders and the social assistance activities too with Daw Aung Sann Su Kyi's NLD and we should never forget his historical greatest value and his historical potrait will always place in our hearts with Burma's history.
I will never for get writer-Mg Ni Mar(U Own Mg) and his daughter-Mar Mar Oo,Youth's leader of N.P.F(Mandalay) too as General Sceretary-1 of National Politics' Front (N.P.F,Rgn)(88-89) because our National Politics' Front (N.P.F,Reg.No;120) was organized by the 8888-democratic striked leaders from Upper & Lower Burma on 16th,Nov,1988 and Lower Burma-Taw Phuyargalay(a) U Aung Ze,U Win Tin,Daw Myint Myint Khin for Patrons,Upper Burma- U Htay Win,U Ohn Pe,U Kyaw Win for Patron, Upper Burma-U Zaw Win for chairman,Lower Burma-U Naing Myint(a)U Myint Soe for Vice chairman-1,Upper Burma-U Khin Mg Than for Vice chairman-2,Lower Burma-U Thi Ha (a) Tint Swe for General Sceretary-1,Upper Burma-U Tin Aye Kyu (a) Ko Mhile for General Sceretary-2,Lower Burma-Dr-Ne Win for Joint General Sceretary-1,Upper Burma-U Thein Than Oo for Joint General Sceretary-2,Lower Burma-Ko Tin Htut for Peasant,Upper Burma-Dr-Mg Mg Thu & U Own Mg(writer- Mg Ni Mar) for Peasant,Lower Burma-Ko Cho Cho Htun Nyein( Norway) for youth,Upper Burma-Ko ZarNiAung & Mar Mar Oo for youth,Lower Burma-Daw Khin San Yi for Women,Upper Burma-Khin Nyein Cham Thu & Ma Mar Mar Oo for women,Lower Burma-U Own Kyi for worker,Upper Burma-U Own Myint Hlaing for worker and extra.
Our N.P.F faced Junta Regime's 90-election as an aor of the democratic goal of Burma but NLD accepted it as the way of Burma's Demo-Human rights-Reconcilation and NLD's Chairman-U Tin Oo talked public on their attitudes of 90-election at Annuel ceremony of Phone Mao,R.I.T's campus on 13th,March,1989 and Taw Phuyargalay talked public on his attitudes of the disorders of SLORC on Peace,Democracy-Solidarity of Thakhin Ko Taw Mhile & Mahatama Gandhi and U Khin Mg Myint talked public on his attitudes of disorders of SLORC with the tale of maid-Ma Aye's looking for her spouse and Min Ko Naing talked public on his bloody herlicane attitudes of disorders of SLORC and Moe Thee Zun talked public on his attitudes of Interrian government and Daw Aung San Su Kyi talked public on her acknowledgement of Phone Mao's day as Burma's Human rights day.
On 16th,June,1989,we disordered of the unjustic cammonds & orders of SLORC at our N.P.F office,Thatipahtan St,Kyaukmyaung,Tamwae Tsp,Rgn,Lower Burma with Daw Aung Sann Su Kyi,U tin Oo,Taw Phuyargalay,the leaders of Luboungthit,Thwaythi,P.P.P & others and so,we were arrested with Daw Su,U Tin Oo,Taw Phuyargalay,U Naing Myint,Dr-Ne Win,U Own Mg & his daughter -Mar Mar Oo and others and we were sentenced for 20-yrs and U Own Mg & his daughter-Mar Mar Oo too for some years and then after our released for 14-yrs from Myaungmya prison on 1st,March,2002,saw back U Ohn Mg at NLD's ceremony,Kamayut Tsp with U Tin Oo & Daw Su and he could stand strongly on his truth-faith with pocerty on platform-bookshop and he could always go to see his daughter-Mar Mar Oo at Prison with poverty foods-medicines and so,I always supported him with my shop's foods & others and he would like to see us as the strong people's democratic leaders and so,understood back him but our political atmospheres changed from Red truth-faiths to Green truth-faiths and so,we would like to understand them about the velvety tactics on the modern strong strategy because Myanmar military dictactors updated to oppress all Burma's national peoples with modern magic weapons of China & Russia,always selfish-profit-protection and now,our leaders, cammarades & friends had to depart from us but we shall always memo- believe their sprits that will be continnuing to fight for freedom of Burma togather with us.
Let to long live their brave sprits with our Burma's classical revolutionary history.
thanking you in anticipation;
best regard;
yours' faithfully!
(U Thi Ha Tint Swe)
Patron for B.D.C,WA-99336,U.S.A,Ph;(509)582-3261.
General Sceretary-1 of N.P.F(88/89).
Political Prisoner for 14-Yrs(89/02).
All commarades & friends sir;
Sayar-BaMao Tin Aung talked us that we shall have to measure the value of the person with the ruler how much could he serve the duties of his crossed historical era and so, we should ourselve- ask back us with this question and some faced darely this question but some didn't dare to face this question and so,we shall have to recognize the persons,could be measured by this ruler as the historical value persons.
Now,our leaders, commarades & friends had to greet-depart from us.For example! Tha Khin Own Myint,writer-Moe Hein & Mg Ni Mar(U Own Mg),father of Mar Mar Oo,the 88-student' generation leader and the former political prisoner with Min Ko Naing,Ko Ko Kyi,Jimmy,Htay Kyawe,Mya Aye,Pyone Cho & others.They could serve faithfully bravely the greatest duties of his crossed historical eras,Anti-Imperialism & Facisisism and National Independence Libration,People's democratic revolution and the democratic avtivities under Burma Junta Regimes.
Thakhin Own Myint could serve the greatest duties of his crossed historical long era of Anti-Imperialism & Facisisim and National Independence Libration,People's Democratic revolution and the democratic activities under Burma Junta Regimes as the Journalist & politician with Bojoke-Aung Sann to us and he had to arrive to KoKoKyum and had to stay at Insein-prison & others with us and could serve & take-care of the generations of the historical leaders and the social assistance activities too with Daw Aung Sann Su Kyi's NLD and we should never forget his historical greatest value and his historical potrait will always place in our hearts with Burma's history.
I will never for get writer-Mg Ni Mar(U Own Mg) and his daughter-Mar Mar Oo,Youth's leader of N.P.F(Mandalay) too as General Sceretary-1 of National Politics' Front (N.P.F,Rgn)(88-89) because our National Politics' Front (N.P.F,Reg.No;120) was organized by the 8888-democratic striked leaders from Upper & Lower Burma on 16th,Nov,1988 and Lower Burma-Taw Phuyargalay(a) U Aung Ze,U Win Tin,Daw Myint Myint Khin for Patrons,Upper Burma- U Htay Win,U Ohn Pe,U Kyaw Win for Patron, Upper Burma-U Zaw Win for chairman,Lower Burma-U Naing Myint(a)U Myint Soe for Vice chairman-1,Upper Burma-U Khin Mg Than for Vice chairman-2,Lower Burma-U Thi Ha (a) Tint Swe for General Sceretary-1,Upper Burma-U Tin Aye Kyu (a) Ko Mhile for General Sceretary-2,Lower Burma-Dr-Ne Win for Joint General Sceretary-1,Upper Burma-U Thein Than Oo for Joint General Sceretary-2,Lower Burma-Ko Tin Htut for Peasant,Upper Burma-Dr-Mg Mg Thu & U Own Mg(writer- Mg Ni Mar) for Peasant,Lower Burma-Ko Cho Cho Htun Nyein( Norway) for youth,Upper Burma-Ko ZarNiAung & Mar Mar Oo for youth,Lower Burma-Daw Khin San Yi for Women,Upper Burma-Khin Nyein Cham Thu & Ma Mar Mar Oo for women,Lower Burma-U Own Kyi for worker,Upper Burma-U Own Myint Hlaing for worker and extra.
Our N.P.F faced Junta Regime's 90-election as an aor of the democratic goal of Burma but NLD accepted it as the way of Burma's Demo-Human rights-Reconcilation and NLD's Chairman-U Tin Oo talked public on their attitudes of 90-election at Annuel ceremony of Phone Mao,R.I.T's campus on 13th,March,1989 and Taw Phuyargalay talked public on his attitudes of the disorders of SLORC on Peace,Democracy-Solidarity of Thakhin Ko Taw Mhile & Mahatama Gandhi and U Khin Mg Myint talked public on his attitudes of disorders of SLORC with the tale of maid-Ma Aye's looking for her spouse and Min Ko Naing talked public on his bloody herlicane attitudes of disorders of SLORC and Moe Thee Zun talked public on his attitudes of Interrian government and Daw Aung San Su Kyi talked public on her acknowledgement of Phone Mao's day as Burma's Human rights day.
On 16th,June,1989,we disordered of the unjustic cammonds & orders of SLORC at our N.P.F office,Thatipahtan St,Kyaukmyaung,Tamwae Tsp,Rgn,Lower Burma with Daw Aung Sann Su Kyi,U tin Oo,Taw Phuyargalay,the leaders of Luboungthit,Thwaythi,P.P.P & others and so,we were arrested with Daw Su,U Tin Oo,Taw Phuyargalay,U Naing Myint,Dr-Ne Win,U Own Mg & his daughter -Mar Mar Oo and others and we were sentenced for 20-yrs and U Own Mg & his daughter-Mar Mar Oo too for some years and then after our released for 14-yrs from Myaungmya prison on 1st,March,2002,saw back U Ohn Mg at NLD's ceremony,Kamayut Tsp with U Tin Oo & Daw Su and he could stand strongly on his truth-faith with pocerty on platform-bookshop and he could always go to see his daughter-Mar Mar Oo at Prison with poverty foods-medicines and so,I always supported him with my shop's foods & others and he would like to see us as the strong people's democratic leaders and so,understood back him but our political atmospheres changed from Red truth-faiths to Green truth-faiths and so,we would like to understand them about the velvety tactics on the modern strong strategy because Myanmar military dictactors updated to oppress all Burma's national peoples with modern magic weapons of China & Russia,always selfish-profit-protection and now,our leaders, cammarades & friends had to depart from us but we shall always memo- believe their sprits that will be continnuing to fight for freedom of Burma togather with us.
Let to long live their brave sprits with our Burma's classical revolutionary history.
thanking you in anticipation;
best regard;
yours' faithfully!
(U Thi Ha Tint Swe)
Patron for B.D.C,WA-99336,U.S.A,Ph;(509)582-3261.
General Sceretary-1 of N.P.F(88/89).
Political Prisoner for 14-Yrs(89/02).
Sunday, 19 September 2010
Thursday, 16 September 2010
Junta announces list of provisions for state-media canvassing
Rangoon (Mizzima) – The Burmese junta’s electoral watchdog issued notices yesterday dissolving 10 political parties including the main opposition National League for Democracy and giving the remaining 37 parties the right to canvass on state-run radio and television.
The Union Election Commission (UEC) said in state-run media that five parties that contested in the 1990 general election and five others established this year to stand for national elections on November 7 had been dissolved.
The first five were the National League for Democracy (NLD) party, the Shan Nationalities League for Democracy (SNLD), the Shan State Kokang Democratic Party, the Wa National Development Party and the Union Pa-O National Organisation. –dissolved because they had not applied for re-registration with the UEC to stand for this year’s polls.
The other parties dissolved for not fielding the minimum requirement of three candidates were the Union Karen National League, the Myanmar Democratic Party for a New Society, the Myanmar Democracy Congress, Mro National Party, Regional Development Party (Pyay).
On the same day, the UEC issued a notice that granted “legal” parties the right to canvass on state-run radio and television, with 15 minutes allotted for each canvassing speech by their chairmen or secretaries until October 25. The parties however were told they needed to submit a draft copy of their speeches to the authorities for permission. The maximum limit of the draft speech is seven pages of A4 paper, the notice says.
However, many other restrictions were included in the notice with vaguely-worded offences such as “committing disaffection to the state and government”, of the kind that have frequently been used to frame opposition members and led to their imprisonment. Besides these restrictions, the draft copy of their speeches must be passed by the state censor board.
The restrictions on canvassing speeches on state-run media:
1. Not to give any talks that can harm non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national solidarity and perpetuation of sovereignty.
2. Not to give any talks that can harm security, the rule of law and community peace.
3. Not to disobey the Constitution (2008) of the Union of Myanmar (Burma) and existing laws.
4. Not to stimulate sedition or give any talks that can tarnish the image of the state.
5. Not to give any talks that can lead to the collapse of the Tatmadaw (armed forces) or tarnish the image of the Tatmadaw.
6. Not to give any talks or undertake organising measures that can lead to conflicts or harm dignity or moral conduct in connection with racism or religion or affairs of an individual or community.
7. Not to abuse religion for political ends.
8. Not to give any talks that can harm peaceful pursuit of education.
9. Not to give any talks that can discourage service personnel from performing their duties or to abet them to stage protests against the government.
Source: http://www.mizzima.com/news/election-2010-/4363-junta-announces-list-of-provisions-for-state-media-canvassing.html
The Union Election Commission (UEC) said in state-run media that five parties that contested in the 1990 general election and five others established this year to stand for national elections on November 7 had been dissolved.
The first five were the National League for Democracy (NLD) party, the Shan Nationalities League for Democracy (SNLD), the Shan State Kokang Democratic Party, the Wa National Development Party and the Union Pa-O National Organisation. –dissolved because they had not applied for re-registration with the UEC to stand for this year’s polls.
The other parties dissolved for not fielding the minimum requirement of three candidates were the Union Karen National League, the Myanmar Democratic Party for a New Society, the Myanmar Democracy Congress, Mro National Party, Regional Development Party (Pyay).
On the same day, the UEC issued a notice that granted “legal” parties the right to canvass on state-run radio and television, with 15 minutes allotted for each canvassing speech by their chairmen or secretaries until October 25. The parties however were told they needed to submit a draft copy of their speeches to the authorities for permission. The maximum limit of the draft speech is seven pages of A4 paper, the notice says.
However, many other restrictions were included in the notice with vaguely-worded offences such as “committing disaffection to the state and government”, of the kind that have frequently been used to frame opposition members and led to their imprisonment. Besides these restrictions, the draft copy of their speeches must be passed by the state censor board.
The restrictions on canvassing speeches on state-run media:
1. Not to give any talks that can harm non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national solidarity and perpetuation of sovereignty.
2. Not to give any talks that can harm security, the rule of law and community peace.
3. Not to disobey the Constitution (2008) of the Union of Myanmar (Burma) and existing laws.
4. Not to stimulate sedition or give any talks that can tarnish the image of the state.
5. Not to give any talks that can lead to the collapse of the Tatmadaw (armed forces) or tarnish the image of the Tatmadaw.
6. Not to give any talks or undertake organising measures that can lead to conflicts or harm dignity or moral conduct in connection with racism or religion or affairs of an individual or community.
7. Not to abuse religion for political ends.
8. Not to give any talks that can harm peaceful pursuit of education.
9. Not to give any talks that can discourage service personnel from performing their duties or to abet them to stage protests against the government.
Source: http://www.mizzima.com/news/election-2010-/4363-junta-announces-list-of-provisions-for-state-media-canvassing.html
Wednesday, 15 September 2010
Opposition party in Burma becomes silent
The main opposition party in Burma has been disbanded.
State television has reported that election officials on Tuesday abolished the National League for Democracy as it had failed to register on time to compete in the country’s general election in November.
Led by detained pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, the party had called the forthcoming elections "a sham", saying that the military was not serious about an election as it had shown little sign of giving up control.
Aung San Suu Kyi, who is under house arrest, has urged her supporters to monitor the election and to report irregularities.
Four other political parties have also been dissolved for failing to enter candidates for the election.
There are now 37 parties registered to compete in the poll.
Source: http://www.srilankannews.net/story/685007
State television has reported that election officials on Tuesday abolished the National League for Democracy as it had failed to register on time to compete in the country’s general election in November.
Led by detained pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, the party had called the forthcoming elections "a sham", saying that the military was not serious about an election as it had shown little sign of giving up control.
Aung San Suu Kyi, who is under house arrest, has urged her supporters to monitor the election and to report irregularities.
Four other political parties have also been dissolved for failing to enter candidates for the election.
There are now 37 parties registered to compete in the poll.
Source: http://www.srilankannews.net/story/685007
Sunday, 12 September 2010
Burmese Video: "Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae" Ads (Sunrise Shock) 08 September 2010
Burmese Video: "Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae" Ads (Sunrise Shock) 08 September 2010
Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) today releases the Burmese video trailer, "Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae" (Sunrise Shock).
We are humbled to present the preview of our work, "Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae" (Sunrise Shock) video which is the collective efforts of the Burma democratic activists from UK.
We hope that this piece could be one of the corner stones when we could write the true Burma history.
We will share the video with all the democratic activists and organizations around the world as well as people inside Burma so that we can have the opportunity to see two different perspectives compare with junta's propaganda video, Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar-Phu-Tae-Kyar, with full of wrong and misleading information.
We are well aware of the challenges ahead trying to distribute our video inside Burma but we will use the modern internet technology believing that it could help us promoting the good news inside Burma.
Please see the link at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=biRw3h...
For more information please contact Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) http://www.bdcburma.org
Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) today releases the Burmese video trailer, "Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae" (Sunrise Shock).
We are humbled to present the preview of our work, "Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae" (Sunrise Shock) video which is the collective efforts of the Burma democratic activists from UK.
We hope that this piece could be one of the corner stones when we could write the true Burma history.
We will share the video with all the democratic activists and organizations around the world as well as people inside Burma so that we can have the opportunity to see two different perspectives compare with junta's propaganda video, Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar-Phu-Tae-Kyar, with full of wrong and misleading information.
We are well aware of the challenges ahead trying to distribute our video inside Burma but we will use the modern internet technology believing that it could help us promoting the good news inside Burma.
Please see the link at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=biRw3h...
For more information please contact Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) http://www.bdcburma.org
Saturday, 11 September 2010
Burmese Video Love Scene: "Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae"
Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) is embarking on media campaign so as to encourage everyone's participation working for democratisation of Burma. Media play important role to restore democracy in Burma so that Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) is producing the video, "Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar SHOCK Shi-Tae", to share with all the people inside Burma so that they can have the opportunity to see two different perspectives compare with junta's propaganda video, Ar-Yone-Oo-Mar-Phu-Tae-Kyar which is full of wrong information".
In the video, there will be the information regarding why we should boycott junta's planned sham election which will be held on 7 November 2010. Addition, there will be more information about junta's unilaterally adopted sham constitution and why we must collectively lobby international governments including UNSC to to declare military entrenching constitution as NULL & VOID. This is part of the answer for Burma crisis.
For more information please contact Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) http://www.bdcburma.org
Monday, 6 September 2010
BDC and Free Burma Project Border stride for Burma’s Unity !
BDC and Free Burma Project Border stride for Burma’s Unity !
BDC
09 Sep 2010
As the result of BGF program our meeting was a Success , these DKBA stand against the regime, meeting took place in the liberated area of Burma at a DKBA base .
Suu Kyi warns on ethnic armies
Growing pressure from the Burmese government on ethnic armies to transform into Border Guard Forces (BGF) could spell gloom for Burma’s future, detained opposition icon Aung San Suu Kyi has warned.
Rather than threatening force against ceasefire groups who refuse the transformation, dialogue should be sought, she told her lawyers Nyan Win during a meeting on Saturday.
“Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said she had learnt there are disagreements between the ceasefire groups and the authorities and that she worried about it,” said Nyan Win. “She said that matters like this should be solved via negotiation for the good of the country’s future.”
http://www.dvb.no/news/suu-kyi-warns-on-ethnic-armies/11607
Burma Democratic Concern (BDC): “YES WE CAN” take decisive action (13 Aug 2010)
13 August 2010
Burma’s dictators declared that election will be held on 7 November 2010. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi led NLD boycott the junta’s planned election due to unfair election laws. Very military regime held the election in 1990 in which Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s party, National League for Democracy (NLD) won the landslide victory.
Junta ignores to honour the 1990 election results. In the mean time suppressions on the Burmese people intensified. Burmese people are living in prison like state under the military regime.
Addition, junta unilaterally adopted the constitution which legitimize military rule in Burma. According to the 14 years long unilaterally drafted constitution, military reserves the 25% of the seats at the parliaments which is totally undemocratic.
The Burma junta’s party registration laws issued this year are bias, undemocratic and drafted in the way like “Do as I say, not as I Do”.
Now, regime declares that fresh election will be held on 7 November 2010 based on 2008 unconstitutional constitution. Addition, 1990 election results are not yet honoured. In order to have true national reconciliation in Burma, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi led NLD issued the “Shwe-Gone-Daing” declaration i.e.
• To release all political prisoners
• To take place genuine dialogue
• To revise 2008 Constitution
• To Recognize 1990 election result
Myo Thein, the Director of the Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) said that the
“International community must take decisive action in this critical time. We would like to urge the international community not to recognize junta’s planned sham 2010 election and its pre-meditated results. It is not the election but the junta’s magic show to change snake skin well before the international community’s very own eyes. We would like to call for all the justice loving people around the world to stand fully behind the Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s call for boycotting junta’s sham 2010 election and its results”.
We must do everything we can to restore democracy, human rights and rule of law in Burma the following three main principles i.e.
1. Implement 1990 election result in Burma
This is the hope which we can defeat injustice system in Burma, this is the hope we can defeat military dictatorship in Burma, and this is the hope we can restore democracy and human rights in Burma under the leadership of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, the democratically elected legitimate leader of Burma.
“If this country is to achieve genuine democracy, the result of the elections of 1990 must be recognized. It must be recognized by the military regime, as it has been recognized by the people, and by the world at large. It is through this recognition that we will be able to make genuine progress in Burma. The results of the 1990 General Elections must be implemented is a resolution already taken by the United Nations. We already know that the General Assembly of the United Nations has accepted the notion that the will of the people has been expressed in the 1990 General Elections. This is something we cannot abandon. It will be to the detriment of our country if after an election has been held the results are not honoured and we do not resist attempts to trivialise it”, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi insists.
Daw Aung San Suu Kyi reaffirmed again the importance of implementing 1990 election result and the necessary practical action taken by international community by saying "Since 1992, the United Nations General Assembly has been passing resolutions on the human rights situation in Burma. But resolutions are not enough. Resolutions should be implemented. We think it is time that the international community took a greater interest in getting the terms of the resolutions implemented".
What is the purpose United Nations standing for if it cannot take effective action decisively rather than playing into junta’s hands? We don’t want to see UNSC being disabled due to the China or/and Russia governments (possible) use of veto whenever Burma crisis is on the table. Now people are finding ways to by-pass China or/and Russia governments’ blockage at the UNSC.
“We believe that if international governments endorse Daw Aung San Suu Kyi led people leaders as the legitimate government of Burma if should the one be formed, then it will be effectively by-passing the UNSC as well as by-passing the China or/and Russia governments' possible use of veto at the UNSC since they cannot influence individual countries from UNGA taking decisions independently”, Khin Maung Win, The Director of the Burma Democratic Concern (BDC).
We would like to give clear message to the world leaders that all the oppressed people of Burma stand firmly on upholding the “Shwe-Gone-Daing” Declaration and unanimously follow the leadership of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.
2. Review junta’s sham 2008 constitution
This is the sham constitution drawn unilaterally by junta’s handpicked delegation -- which we must change. This is the sham constitution adopted unilaterally in rigged referendum – which we must change. This is the sham constitution designed to legitimise military rule in Burma -- which we must change. The essence of the 2008 Constitution is to guarantee impunity indefinitely and the 2010election will implement it.
“Therefore, we call for United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to declare the unilaterally adopted Burmese junta's 2008 sham constitution, which is designed to legitimize military rule permanently in Burma, as NULL and VOID”, said U Tint Swe Thiha, the Patron of the Burma Democratic Concern (BDC).
It is reasonable to request the nullification of the 2008 Constitution by the UN Security Council. Precedence for such a move can be found in UNSC Resolution 554 regarding South Africa’s 1983 apartheid-entrenching constitution @UNSC Res 554 (15 November 1983) UN Doc A/RES/38/11
@ UNSC Res 554 (15 November 1983) UN Doc A/RES/38/11 • UNSC declares that the so-called "new constitution" is contrary to the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, that the results of the referendum of 2 November1983 are of no validity whatsoever and that the enforcement of the "new constitution" will further aggravate the already explosive situation prevailing inside apartheid South Africa.
• Strongly rejects and declares as null and void the so-called "new constitution" and the "elections" to be organized in the current month of August for the “coloured” people and people of Asian origin as well as all insidious manoeuvres by the racist minority regime of South Africa further to entrench white minority apartheid rule.
3. Boycott junta’s planned sham 2010 election
Boycott junta’s planned sham 2010 election now because it is designed to nullify 1990 election result. Boycott junta’s planned sham 2010 election now because election will be held in accord with 2008 sham constitution. Boycott junta’s planned sham 2010 election now because junta is setting up everything to win its own proxy party.
“International governments can help us realising justice reality in Burma. If international governments denounce junta’s sham 2010 election and its results; then they are effectively supporting Aung San Suu Kyi’s call for boycotting junta’s planned sham 2010 election”, said Daw Khin Aye Aye Mar, the patron of the Burma Democratic Concern (BDC).
We would like to invite all the justice loving people around the world to join with us working to restore democracy, human rights and rule of law in Burma where everyone can enjoy the freedom of speech, press, beliefs, assembly and rule of law that emphasizes the protection of individual rights.
It is our duty to implement 1990 election results in which people voted for their leaders, it is our duty to review junta’s sham 2008 constitution, and it is our duty to boycott junta’s planned sham 2010 election which will legitimise military rule in Burma.
Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) believe that “YES WE CAN” to implement 1990 election result in Burma, “YES WE CAN” to change junta’s sham 2008 constitution and “YES WE CAN” to boycott junta’s planned sham 2010 election.
Together we can restore the democracy in Burma and build the better world. Let’s work together. We will win and we can bring justice realities in Burma. Yes we can since what we believe is what we achieve.
Notes: This is the press release by Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) released on 13 Aug 2010. This is reposted by Burma Democratic Concern (BDC.
Burma’s dictators declared that election will be held on 7 November 2010. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi led NLD boycott the junta’s planned election due to unfair election laws. Very military regime held the election in 1990 in which Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s party, National League for Democracy (NLD) won the landslide victory.
Junta ignores to honour the 1990 election results. In the mean time suppressions on the Burmese people intensified. Burmese people are living in prison like state under the military regime.
Addition, junta unilaterally adopted the constitution which legitimize military rule in Burma. According to the 14 years long unilaterally drafted constitution, military reserves the 25% of the seats at the parliaments which is totally undemocratic.
The Burma junta’s party registration laws issued this year are bias, undemocratic and drafted in the way like “Do as I say, not as I Do”.
Now, regime declares that fresh election will be held on 7 November 2010 based on 2008 unconstitutional constitution. Addition, 1990 election results are not yet honoured. In order to have true national reconciliation in Burma, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi led NLD issued the “Shwe-Gone-Daing” declaration i.e.
• To release all political prisoners
• To take place genuine dialogue
• To revise 2008 Constitution
• To Recognize 1990 election result
Myo Thein, the Director of the Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) said that the
“International community must take decisive action in this critical time. We would like to urge the international community not to recognize junta’s planned sham 2010 election and its pre-meditated results. It is not the election but the junta’s magic show to change snake skin well before the international community’s very own eyes. We would like to call for all the justice loving people around the world to stand fully behind the Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s call for boycotting junta’s sham 2010 election and its results”.
We must do everything we can to restore democracy, human rights and rule of law in Burma the following three main principles i.e.
1. Implement 1990 election result in Burma
This is the hope which we can defeat injustice system in Burma, this is the hope we can defeat military dictatorship in Burma, and this is the hope we can restore democracy and human rights in Burma under the leadership of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, the democratically elected legitimate leader of Burma.
“If this country is to achieve genuine democracy, the result of the elections of 1990 must be recognized. It must be recognized by the military regime, as it has been recognized by the people, and by the world at large. It is through this recognition that we will be able to make genuine progress in Burma. The results of the 1990 General Elections must be implemented is a resolution already taken by the United Nations. We already know that the General Assembly of the United Nations has accepted the notion that the will of the people has been expressed in the 1990 General Elections. This is something we cannot abandon. It will be to the detriment of our country if after an election has been held the results are not honoured and we do not resist attempts to trivialise it”, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi insists.
Daw Aung San Suu Kyi reaffirmed again the importance of implementing 1990 election result and the necessary practical action taken by international community by saying "Since 1992, the United Nations General Assembly has been passing resolutions on the human rights situation in Burma. But resolutions are not enough. Resolutions should be implemented. We think it is time that the international community took a greater interest in getting the terms of the resolutions implemented".
What is the purpose United Nations standing for if it cannot take effective action decisively rather than playing into junta’s hands? We don’t want to see UNSC being disabled due to the China or/and Russia governments (possible) use of veto whenever Burma crisis is on the table. Now people are finding ways to by-pass China or/and Russia governments’ blockage at the UNSC.
“We believe that if international governments endorse Daw Aung San Suu Kyi led people leaders as the legitimate government of Burma if should the one be formed, then it will be effectively by-passing the UNSC as well as by-passing the China or/and Russia governments' possible use of veto at the UNSC since they cannot influence individual countries from UNGA taking decisions independently”, Khin Maung Win, The Director of the Burma Democratic Concern (BDC).
We would like to give clear message to the world leaders that all the oppressed people of Burma stand firmly on upholding the “Shwe-Gone-Daing” Declaration and unanimously follow the leadership of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.
2. Review junta’s sham 2008 constitution
This is the sham constitution drawn unilaterally by junta’s handpicked delegation -- which we must change. This is the sham constitution adopted unilaterally in rigged referendum – which we must change. This is the sham constitution designed to legitimise military rule in Burma -- which we must change. The essence of the 2008 Constitution is to guarantee impunity indefinitely and the 2010election will implement it.
“Therefore, we call for United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to declare the unilaterally adopted Burmese junta's 2008 sham constitution, which is designed to legitimize military rule permanently in Burma, as NULL and VOID”, said U Tint Swe Thiha, the Patron of the Burma Democratic Concern (BDC).
It is reasonable to request the nullification of the 2008 Constitution by the UN Security Council. Precedence for such a move can be found in UNSC Resolution 554 regarding South Africa’s 1983 apartheid-entrenching constitution @UNSC Res 554 (15 November 1983) UN Doc A/RES/38/11
@ UNSC Res 554 (15 November 1983) UN Doc A/RES/38/11 • UNSC declares that the so-called "new constitution" is contrary to the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, that the results of the referendum of 2 November1983 are of no validity whatsoever and that the enforcement of the "new constitution" will further aggravate the already explosive situation prevailing inside apartheid South Africa.
• Strongly rejects and declares as null and void the so-called "new constitution" and the "elections" to be organized in the current month of August for the “coloured” people and people of Asian origin as well as all insidious manoeuvres by the racist minority regime of South Africa further to entrench white minority apartheid rule.
3. Boycott junta’s planned sham 2010 election
Boycott junta’s planned sham 2010 election now because it is designed to nullify 1990 election result. Boycott junta’s planned sham 2010 election now because election will be held in accord with 2008 sham constitution. Boycott junta’s planned sham 2010 election now because junta is setting up everything to win its own proxy party.
“International governments can help us realising justice reality in Burma. If international governments denounce junta’s sham 2010 election and its results; then they are effectively supporting Aung San Suu Kyi’s call for boycotting junta’s planned sham 2010 election”, said Daw Khin Aye Aye Mar, the patron of the Burma Democratic Concern (BDC).
We would like to invite all the justice loving people around the world to join with us working to restore democracy, human rights and rule of law in Burma where everyone can enjoy the freedom of speech, press, beliefs, assembly and rule of law that emphasizes the protection of individual rights.
It is our duty to implement 1990 election results in which people voted for their leaders, it is our duty to review junta’s sham 2008 constitution, and it is our duty to boycott junta’s planned sham 2010 election which will legitimise military rule in Burma.
Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) believe that “YES WE CAN” to implement 1990 election result in Burma, “YES WE CAN” to change junta’s sham 2008 constitution and “YES WE CAN” to boycott junta’s planned sham 2010 election.
Together we can restore the democracy in Burma and build the better world. Let’s work together. We will win and we can bring justice realities in Burma. Yes we can since what we believe is what we achieve.
Notes: This is the press release by Burma Democratic Concern (BDC) released on 13 Aug 2010. This is reposted by Burma Democratic Concern (BDC.
Burmese FM to Attend US-Asean Summit
Burma's Foreign Minister Nyan Win will attend the US-Asean summit convened by President Obama later this month in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session.
The White House on Friday announced that Obama will host a meeting with leaders of the Association of South East Asian Nations (Asean). Obama has invited the leaders of the 10 Asean member states as well the Asean secretary-general to join him for the second ever US-Asean leaders' meeting, it said.
Burmese Foreign Minister Nyan Win attends the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers Informal Consultations in Hanoi in July. (Photo: Reuters)
Confirming that the top Burmese leader will not be attending the meeting, a senior US official said that no direct invitation was sent to Burma.
“The invitation went to the Asean chair [Vietnam], so we did not address an invitation to Burma directly,” the official told The Irrawaddy. “The Burmese have decided to send their foreign minister, Nyan Win.”
The White House said, at the first such meeting, held in Singapore in November 2009, Obama and the Asean leaders pledged to deepen cooperation in a number of areas of common concern, including trade and investment, regional security, disaster management, food and energy security, and climate change.
“The President looks forward to working with the leaders to assess the progress on these issues, to identify future efforts to strengthen US-Asean relations, and discuss multilateral approaches for greater regional cooperation,” the White House said.
It is understood that Obama will discuss the upcoming election in Burma, which the US has said lacks credibility.
Of late, the Obama administration has shown signs of adopting a stronger position against Burma; given that a year ago it had adopted a new policy of simultaneous engagement with and economic sanctions on Burma.
The US had two rounds of talks with the military junta, however top US officials, including Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, expressed frustration over the response of the junta toward a credible and transparent election and the release of all political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi.
http://www.irrawaddy.org/article.php?art_id=19380
The White House on Friday announced that Obama will host a meeting with leaders of the Association of South East Asian Nations (Asean). Obama has invited the leaders of the 10 Asean member states as well the Asean secretary-general to join him for the second ever US-Asean leaders' meeting, it said.
Burmese Foreign Minister Nyan Win attends the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers Informal Consultations in Hanoi in July. (Photo: Reuters)
Confirming that the top Burmese leader will not be attending the meeting, a senior US official said that no direct invitation was sent to Burma.
“The invitation went to the Asean chair [Vietnam], so we did not address an invitation to Burma directly,” the official told The Irrawaddy. “The Burmese have decided to send their foreign minister, Nyan Win.”
The White House said, at the first such meeting, held in Singapore in November 2009, Obama and the Asean leaders pledged to deepen cooperation in a number of areas of common concern, including trade and investment, regional security, disaster management, food and energy security, and climate change.
“The President looks forward to working with the leaders to assess the progress on these issues, to identify future efforts to strengthen US-Asean relations, and discuss multilateral approaches for greater regional cooperation,” the White House said.
It is understood that Obama will discuss the upcoming election in Burma, which the US has said lacks credibility.
Of late, the Obama administration has shown signs of adopting a stronger position against Burma; given that a year ago it had adopted a new policy of simultaneous engagement with and economic sanctions on Burma.
The US had two rounds of talks with the military junta, however top US officials, including Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, expressed frustration over the response of the junta toward a credible and transparent election and the release of all political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi.
http://www.irrawaddy.org/article.php?art_id=19380
Thursday, 2 September 2010
"Lifeline service": BBC Burmese marks 70th anniversary
"Lifeline service": BBC Burmese marks 70th anniversary
By Bethan Jinkinson
BBC News
Burma's first post-Independence Prime Minister U Nu appeared on the BBC Burmese service in 1947
As the BBC Burmese service broadcast a programme marking its 70th anniversary, Sandhobasa, a monk, called in to say that he had been listening for more than two decades.
The broadcasts enriched his knowledge, he said, and he had become attached to them. He could, he said, name the day when every presenter joined or left the BBC.
Founded in 1940, the service has covered independence, uprisings and long years of military rule.
Small teams based in Bangkok and London's Bush House broadcast to an estimated 22.9% of Burma's adult population, and in times of national crisis these figures soar.
"The BBC plays a massive role in bringing accurate, impartial information to the people of Burma," says Soe Win Than, one of the editors at the service.
"People inside Burma cannot get free information. We are a lifeline service."
Essential listening
Last year Burma was voted 5th worst in the world in terms of media freedom by Reporters Without Borders; local media is heavily censored.
The BBC began broadcasting to Burma in 1940, when Burma was still part of the British empire
Soe Win Than says this is particularly true in times of crisis, such as during the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis, or the 2007 protests led by monks.
"During the uprising the government slowed down the internet connections and blocked access," he says.
"People tuned in to the BBC to find out what was happening - and our listenership skyrocketed."
This also happened in August 1988, when hundreds of thousands of people took part in pro-democracy protests across the country.
Continue reading the main story
“
Start Quote
The people of Burma are deprived of the privilege of free information”
Soe Win Than
BBC Burmese service
Former student leader Aung Myo Tun said that during that time he listened to the BBC every day.
But it is not only in times of crisis that the BBC is essential listening in Burma.
Sit Maw, a 19 year-old student living in Burma's commercial capital Rangoon, is one of an estimated 8.3 million weekly listeners in Burma.
"The information in my country is not good," he says. "Most news is controlled by the government."
"We need free information about what is happening inside and outside the country and in the world today. That's why I listen to the BBC. "
His view is confirmed by research.
"Independent surveys also show that BBC Burmese has established itself as the most trusted, reliable source of information in Burma, says the BBC's Director of Global News, Peter Horrocks.
"It's not an exaggeration to say that its broadcasts have helped to keep the Burmese people informed - and empowered."
Huge following
In their weekly Have Your Say programme, listeners from inside Burma as well as countries like Bangladesh, Thailand and Japan call in to to take part in discussion.
"The people of Burma are deprived of the privilege of free information," says Soe Win Than.
Presenter Ne Win (R) was one of the service's best known voices; he retired in 1995
"The government in Burma is so paranoid that they censor publications with dark covers, as they believe they imply that Burma is still in the dark ages."
"Our Have Your Say programme gives the Burmese people a forum, a chance to talk about a range of topics, including politics."
BBC Burmese do not only broadcast radio. They also have a Burmese language website, and receive many emails a day.
They have just launched a newsletter aimed at Burmese migrants on the Thai-Burma border.
Not surprisingly BBC journalists enjoy a huge following in Burma.
"Every journalist in Burma wants to work for the BBC" says producer Moe Myint, one of the younger members of the team. "Nobody can compete in terms of audience or reputation."
But for those who work for the BBC, there is a personal cost. Moe Myint says that whenever he returns to Burma he is followed by the authorities "everywhere I go".
Several BBC Burmese journalists have experienced difficult circumstances due to the political situation in Burma.
Nita May spent three years in the notorious Insein prison, where she gave birth to a son.
Another member of staff took part in the student uprising in 1988 and had to escape through the jungles on the Thai-Burma border.
Now as journalists in London and Bangkok, they provide an essential link to the outside world for a country starved of independent news.
Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-11164597
By Bethan Jinkinson
BBC News
Burma's first post-Independence Prime Minister U Nu appeared on the BBC Burmese service in 1947
As the BBC Burmese service broadcast a programme marking its 70th anniversary, Sandhobasa, a monk, called in to say that he had been listening for more than two decades.
The broadcasts enriched his knowledge, he said, and he had become attached to them. He could, he said, name the day when every presenter joined or left the BBC.
Founded in 1940, the service has covered independence, uprisings and long years of military rule.
Small teams based in Bangkok and London's Bush House broadcast to an estimated 22.9% of Burma's adult population, and in times of national crisis these figures soar.
"The BBC plays a massive role in bringing accurate, impartial information to the people of Burma," says Soe Win Than, one of the editors at the service.
"People inside Burma cannot get free information. We are a lifeline service."
Essential listening
Last year Burma was voted 5th worst in the world in terms of media freedom by Reporters Without Borders; local media is heavily censored.
The BBC began broadcasting to Burma in 1940, when Burma was still part of the British empire
Soe Win Than says this is particularly true in times of crisis, such as during the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis, or the 2007 protests led by monks.
"During the uprising the government slowed down the internet connections and blocked access," he says.
"People tuned in to the BBC to find out what was happening - and our listenership skyrocketed."
This also happened in August 1988, when hundreds of thousands of people took part in pro-democracy protests across the country.
Continue reading the main story
“
Start Quote
The people of Burma are deprived of the privilege of free information”
Soe Win Than
BBC Burmese service
Former student leader Aung Myo Tun said that during that time he listened to the BBC every day.
But it is not only in times of crisis that the BBC is essential listening in Burma.
Sit Maw, a 19 year-old student living in Burma's commercial capital Rangoon, is one of an estimated 8.3 million weekly listeners in Burma.
"The information in my country is not good," he says. "Most news is controlled by the government."
"We need free information about what is happening inside and outside the country and in the world today. That's why I listen to the BBC. "
His view is confirmed by research.
"Independent surveys also show that BBC Burmese has established itself as the most trusted, reliable source of information in Burma, says the BBC's Director of Global News, Peter Horrocks.
"It's not an exaggeration to say that its broadcasts have helped to keep the Burmese people informed - and empowered."
Huge following
In their weekly Have Your Say programme, listeners from inside Burma as well as countries like Bangladesh, Thailand and Japan call in to to take part in discussion.
"The people of Burma are deprived of the privilege of free information," says Soe Win Than.
Presenter Ne Win (R) was one of the service's best known voices; he retired in 1995
"The government in Burma is so paranoid that they censor publications with dark covers, as they believe they imply that Burma is still in the dark ages."
"Our Have Your Say programme gives the Burmese people a forum, a chance to talk about a range of topics, including politics."
BBC Burmese do not only broadcast radio. They also have a Burmese language website, and receive many emails a day.
They have just launched a newsletter aimed at Burmese migrants on the Thai-Burma border.
Not surprisingly BBC journalists enjoy a huge following in Burma.
"Every journalist in Burma wants to work for the BBC" says producer Moe Myint, one of the younger members of the team. "Nobody can compete in terms of audience or reputation."
But for those who work for the BBC, there is a personal cost. Moe Myint says that whenever he returns to Burma he is followed by the authorities "everywhere I go".
Several BBC Burmese journalists have experienced difficult circumstances due to the political situation in Burma.
Nita May spent three years in the notorious Insein prison, where she gave birth to a son.
Another member of staff took part in the student uprising in 1988 and had to escape through the jungles on the Thai-Burma border.
Now as journalists in London and Bangkok, they provide an essential link to the outside world for a country starved of independent news.
Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-11164597
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