THURSDAY, March 28, 2024
nationthailand

Myanmar vendors banned from flying NLD flags

Myanmar vendors banned from flying NLD flags

The Ayeyawady authorities have prohibited vendors at Maubin fish market in Pathein District from hoisting National League for Democracy (NLD) flags, campaigning and selling stickers, say stallholders.

The order reportedly was enforced on October 21.

Aung Kyaw Oo of the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) allegedly complained to the market committee about campaigning by shopkeepers.

“If we break the rules we will be sentenced to one year in jail or a Ks100,000 fine. We are forced to not mention the NLD,” said stallholder Nweni Win, who attended the meeting.

Recordings from the meeting were taken of Aung Kyaw Oo complaining to the market committee about the NLD’s election campaign.

Aung Kyaw Oo can be heard saying: “Their words were seen as an insult to the USDP and the president. If a person insults the president, they will be given a jail sentence.”

Committee members were recorded saying that as the market was municipally owned, it was their duty to stop the vendors becoming involved in the election.

The committee refused to comment on the issue.

A legal expert said nowhere under electoral law could the use of flags incur a prison sentence.

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