The ?2010 Election Watch? provides background information and analysis on the events leading up to Burma?s general election as well as up-to-date information on election related issues and activities. We provide our analysis of events in Burma as they happen to monitor whether the electoral process is conducted in a free and fair manner. However, even if the elections are remotely deemed free and fair, the SPDC?s 2008 constitution prevents the establishment of true democracy in Burma. After the election, the constitution will perpetuate military rule, legitimize subjugation of ethnic nationalities, and threaten basic human rights of the Burmese people. Pro-democracy and ethnic nationality groups inside and outside Burma as well as the international community, including ASEAN and the UN, have repeatedly called for the 2010 elections to be free and fair. But the junta has refused to release political prisoners, cease its assault on ethnic nationalities, and engage in genuine dialogue with pro-democracy and ethnic groups. These are necessary conditions for free and fair elections. The ?2010 Election Watch? will continue to be updated as more information becomes available. If you have any comments or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]