GRAPE VINE
On Notice in Burma
Source : Washington Post (July 25, 2000)
SEIN WIN
Washington
I wish to reiterate Aung San Suu Kyi's appeal to the international community to take action that will bring about change in my country [op-ed, July 16].
Two opposing political currents run through Burma. One is the democracy movement, which strives to initiate dialogue with the generals to resolve political disputes peacefully. The other is the junta, which seeks to impose "disciplined democracy" under military guidance, the ultimate goal of which is to bring an end to democratic aspirations.
The National League for Democracy has for 10 years succeeded in keeping democratic hopes alive despite the junta's campaign to annihilate dissent. The movement abroad, fortified by the support of the international community, has put the generals on notice that they cannot continue to ignore the aspirations of the people.
It is possible to discern some success of efforts to bring democracy to Burma. The generals have retreated from their previous hard-line position and have acknowledged the need for dialogue. Nonetheless, some elements continue to resist domestic and international opinions.
At this critical juncture, strong and sustained support of all members of the United Nations and international mediation would contribute to the building of a country desired by all Burmese, whatever their creed or ethnic identity.
The writer is prime minister of Burma's government in exile.
JARED M. GENSER
Potomac
I was delighted to see Aung San Suu Kyi's July 16 op-ed column on Burma and the accompanying editorial condemning the Burmese regime.
Last August, Burma sentenced James Mawdsley, a British and Australian human rights activist, to 17 years in solitary confinement. His offense was handing out pamphlets saying such things as "do not obey orders you know to be cruel and unjust." He was tried for sedition, convicted and sentenced within several hours of his arrival and without access to a lawyer.
Mr. Mawdsley continues his struggle from within his cell and has paid a high personal price for his conviction, including being subjected to torture.