NLD to protest warning on charter change speeches

 

“The National League for Democracy [NLD] will issue an official statement against this,” Suu Kyi said.

The UEC sent a notice on May 22, saying speeches organised by the NLD and 88 Generation and Open Society in Mandalay violated the Party Act and other laws that provide official channels to seek constitutional reform. 

“We’re still discussing how to respond to the warning, as all the stated points are wrong. We will react as quickly as possible,” said Nyan Win, the NLD’s spokesperson. He also noted that such a warning would not disrupt Suu Kyi’s speeches.

Suu Kyi plans speeches in many cities, to raise public support for charter amendments. A national competition was also kicked off on May 17 to collect as many as 16 million signatures. After Suu Kyi signed the petition, yesterday a group of pro-government protesters were on streets, voicing their support for Section 436 that affirms military power in Parliament. The section mandates a 75-per-cent majority in Parliament to approve any changes, followed by a national referendum. This gives the military de facto veto power on any proposals brought about through Parliament. The current constitution also bars Suu Kyi from participating in next year’s general election. 

A signboard saying “no need for people who rely on foreign powers” was also put up near the NLD offices in Ottarathiri Township where Suu Kyi herself first signed the petition. She also criticised civil servants for involvement in the protest. 

“While making a speech in Zabuthiri Township, I heard that administration officers protested with posters and signboards to oppose amendment of the constitution. It is not in line with the law. If sufficient evidence testifies it really happened, we will file a case against it,” she said.

Speaking to a mass rally in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday, she urged all government workers and army personnel to join the signature collection campaign. She also urged locals to disclose any threats and interference. 

“Government staff can participate in the petition as well, including the soldiers. They are not limited by any law,” she said, adding she could not accept that the 92 per cent of the public approved the 2008 Constitution in a referendum. 

She said that the petition would be sent to Parliament and it would be observed how it would react to the public wish. 

“All citizens should keep in mind that we are signing the petition for the good of ourselves as well as our generation,” she added.

Regarding the UEC letter, Nyan Win said that such a warning would not disrupt her speeches. 

“Everything we have done is officially permitted and in conformity with democratic norms. And I want to highlight what they have missed. Both of our joint statements have cleared that we would reform the charter without hurting national reconciliation and the rule of law. I think the UEC has neglected this statement. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has every right to challenge those who are craving only for more power. I believe the UEC interprets this as they wish,” said Ko Jimmy from the 88 Generation and Open Society.

In a recent speech, Suu Kyi challenged the army to prove themselves to the people, urging them to work towards the good of the country rather than their own interests. 

“I urge the military to prove that they are not power-hungry people, not hungry for opportunities and a good position. In other words, I would like to challenge the military men, I challenge you,” said Suu Kyi. 

“In the Chapter 12 of the constitution, Articles 433 to 436 state the instructions to use in amending constitution. As the Article 434 says “the draft to amend the constitution must be submitted to the Union Parliament”, there is an effort in the parliament to modify the constitution complying with the law,” said the UEC notice.

Members of the 88 Generation Peace and Open Society claimed the UEC’s notice goes astray and will only deepen the disappointment of those hoping for national reconciliation and a free and fair election next year.