Annual meeting of Shan State Army concludes

Annual meeting of Shan State Army concludes 

Participants express satisfaction 

The sixth annual meeting since the founding of the Shan State Army (south) in 1996 and the second annual meeting of its political wing, the Restoration Council of Shan State, that began on 3 December ended on Monday (10 December), said a top commander this morning. 

"Unlike past gatherings, the atmosphere was more open, cooler and fresher," commented the officer, who requested anonymity. "Participants were more candid in their assessments of the movement's successes and failures, and the leaders more open to criticisms." 

Other participants also concurred with the officer's view. "Before the meeting, I felt somewhat discouraged," said one. "But most of us came out of it thoroughly recharged." 

Col Yawdserk, who had offered to resign from the chairmanship of the RCSS to make way for a "worthier leader", remains in his office until a newly set up commission, under the direction of Sao Htun Aye, a veteran fighter and adviser, comes up with a list of nominations early next year. 

Among the other resolutions were: 

More rigorous campaigning against drugs, closer relations with Shan exiled activist groups and the election of a new 11-person Executive Committee. 

Ms Khurhsen was chosen to be the movement's spokesperson. She is married to Sao Ternsarng, General Secretary of the RCSS. 

The 11-members of the EC are as follows: 

Sao Yawdserk, SaoTernsarng, Ms Khurhsen, Col Khurhngern, Sao Ood Kesi, Sao Siri, Sao Awntern, Khun Serh, Sao Hsiao Harn, Sao Yawdfah and Sai Sarmtip. 

The RCSS professes to be fighting for Independence and Democracy, and against drugs. Two of its campaigns early this year resulted in military confrontations between Thailand and Burma.