On 23 July, Tai Freedom, official media of the Restoration Council of Shan State / Shan State Army (RCSS/SSA), interviewed Lt-Gen Yawdserk, the movement’s leader. The following are the excerpts:
On Sao Sai Leun, leader of Mongla-based National Democratic Alliance Army (NDAA)
He is a generous person with a remarkable breadth of vision.
On the role of People’s Militia Forces (PMFs) in the planned political dialogue
As the PMFs have submitted themselves to the Burma Army’s command, they will not be included in the political dialogue. The Burma Army may not allow them to participate, even if they want to.
On 2008 constitution
For the sake of unity, the 2008 constitution should be the starting point for the dialogue. It has specified that the 7 states and 7 regions constitute the foundation of the union and that they have equal status. What we would have to negotiate is for full autonomy for each state/region. Also state/region chief minister must be elected and not appointed.
On the elimination of drugs
Each group has agreed to cooperate with the government to eliminate the threat of drugs. But each of them’s approach may be different. As for us, development (of people’s livelihood) will be our first priority, warning second and legal action third.
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