Ceasefire groups position supported by Wa

Politics

Ceasefire groups position supported by Wa

As battle lines are being drawn for the military-organized National Convention due to begin on Monday (17 May), Burma's strongest ceasefire group, the United Wa State Army, has lent its support for the 7-point statement released yesterday by six other groups, according to border and Rangoon sources.

The 5-men delegation that arrived yesterday at the capital said they agreed with the content of the grouping's joint proposition to the National Convention Convening Commission, dated 11 May:

• To review the declared 6th political objective, namely, participation of the military in the leading role of national politics

• To review the 104 constitutional principles

• Free discussions with any individuals and groups

• Access to communications with one's mother organization

• Participation by those elected in 1990

• Conclusion of ceasefire agreement with remaining armed opposition groups and their participation in the National Convention

• Repeal of Law No. 5/96 that bans people and organization from delivering speeches and making statements criticising the Convention

The statement was signed by Kachin Independence Organization, New Mon State Party, Shan State Army, Shan State National Army, Palaung State Liberation Organization and Kayan New Land Party.

"The Wa delegation's U Aung Myint called up to announce its approval," said a member of the grouping.

The UWSA was also a signatory to the 15 October 2003 5-point Panghsang Declaration that was essentially indistinguishable with the present one, he added.

More than a hundred representatives from both the ceasefire and militia forces were welcomed by Prime Minister Gen Khin Nyunt yesterday morning, 08:00-09:00. "He said he felt somewhat let down by our statement but he realized at the same time it was well meant."

The Wa were not present on the occasion.

According to Mahasang, President of the Thai border-based Wa National Organization, the Wa delegation consists of Bo Laikham, Li Julieh (U Aung Myint), Ta Palawng, Zhao Zhongdang and Jayo.

"Active engagement in political activities is the only way the Wa can get rid of its drug image," he said.