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Altsean-Burma 9999 Statement



STATEMENT TO MARK "9999"
By Altsean-Burma (Alternative Asean Network on Burma)

As events led to 9 September 1999, or "9999," Burma's junta claimed that
the opposition was "numerically obsessed."  Such "obsession," however, must
have rubbed off on the regime.  What else could be the reasons for:

· Recent arrests of hundreds of activists (and suspected activists)
· Increased presence of the military and military intelligence in Burma's
main cities
· Discreet warnings to military families not to wear yellow, the color
representing support for the democracy movement.
· Across-the-board denial of tourist visas to independent travelers who
might take one photo too many.

The junta is obviously obsessed with the fear that the people of Burma will
speak out about their dissatisfaction with the regime.  This is not
surprising considering the number of reasons people have for being
outraged.  It is also obvious that the junta does not want foreign visitors
around to document the predictable violent crackdown should demonstrations
occur.

Altsean-Burma condemns the systematic oppression the junta has exercised
over the people of Burma.  Its perpetration of an endless list of human
rights violations including forced labor, forced relocation, arbitrary
arrest, torture, rape, extra-judicial execution and marauding attacks on
villages is inexcusable.   We believe it is better to be "numerically
obsessed" in a struggle for justice than to be truly obsessed with one's
power and search for ways to smother dissent.

Altsean-Burma will continue to support the struggle for peace,
reconciliation, and democracy in Burma until these goals are met.  We call
upon the military regime to:

Ø Release all political prisoners
Ø Cease all military aggression against ethnic nationalities
Ø Cease harassment of the Committee Representing the People's Parliament
(CRPP) and pro-democracy groups
Ø Enter into tripartite dialogue with the NLD and the ethnic nationalities
Ø Allow Parliament to convene with the representatives elected in 1990

Whatever happens in Burma on 9999 will only be one day in an ongoing
struggle.  The junta would be well advised to rid itself of unhealthy
obsessions and wake up to the reality that it cannot hold on to its power
forever.  

Dialogue is inevitable.  It is not too late for the regime to redeem itself
by ceasing its oppression and commencing tripartite dialogue - today.

Bangkok, Thailand
9 September, 1999

-----------------------------------
A L T S E A N - B U R M A
Alternative Asean Network on Burma
Tel: 66 2 275 1811 * Fax: 66 2 693 4515
<altsean@xxxxxxxxxx>