Bohmu Aung's Appeal on 03-09-98 in

[nldburma@xxxxxxxxxxx]

Unofficial Translation

3 September 1998


Subject- A serious and momentous request to the State Peace and 
Development Council and the National League for Democracy from Bohmu 
Aung and his political associates.


Always with the best of intention we make this urgent and strong  
presentation to the above two strongest forces that can make or break 
the Union of Burma.

1.	There is a growing anxiety and fear in the minds of the people here 
and our neighbouring countries, and in most of the countries of the 
world because of the increasing tension in connection with the convening 
of parliament for which the general election was held in 1990. In some 
other big and small countries, conflicts and disputes have arisen 
because of alleged rigging, and unfair practices by one side or the 
other at elections. As far as Burma is concerned, the elections were 
very free and fair and this has been affirmed by all within and outside 
the country. The manner in which the military government conducted 
itself at the election was commended also. Not a single soldier was to 
be seen near the polling booths or on the roads on election day. The 
popular feeling that elections held by military governments can never be 
free and fair was dissipated completely.

2.    It can not be said that the elections were politically motivated 
and that the authorities were not competent nor can it be said that the 
time and circumstances were not appropriate. When the entire nation 
spontaneously demonstrates its will to overthrow a government and things 
get out of hand, same authority that takes control is recognised by the 
world as a de facto government meanings that the government is actually 
exercising power even though it may be illegitimate. The main 
responsibility of that de facto government is to bring about and create 
a government in accordance with the people's wishes which will be 
recognised as de jure meaning a government which is legal with 
constitutional rights. Therefore the state Law and Order Restoration 
Council (SLORC) , a de facto government, in its Order 1/98 declared that 

" The country had reaches a deteriorating state of affairs in every 
sphere and to prevent further decline it was assuming full 
responsibility for 
(a) restoration of law and peace
(b) security and communication
(c) a better living standard which this council will strive to obtain 
for all the people.
(d) holding a multi party elections when the above three matters are 
achieved".

By undertaking to fulfil the above duties, SLORC was recognised as a de 
facto government by other nations including the United Nations. It is 
absolutely necessary that as a representative of the country SLORC 
abides by the resolutions of the United Nations.

3.	The 1990 elections was the outcome and a very important event in 
Burma's history. When the whole country rose up in revolt, it was 
necessary for a de facto government to take control. This is a political 
and historical reality. It has to happen and cannot be avoided in 
anyway. Our forefathers and freedom fighters sacrificed their lives for 
the establishment of democracy. History has proved that the people have 
always wanted and still desire the democratic system of government. The 
basic and underlying principle ( the key )of democracy is that sovereign 
power lies with the people. It is the people who elect their 
representatives and empower them to govern the country. Then, these 
representatives are honour bound to perform the duty of governing the 
country for the good of the people. The Burmese people have for years 
and years consistently rejected all forms of colonial system whether it 
be old or new and fought for a democratic system.

4.	For the establishment of a democratic system, a constitution must be 
drawn up by the people through their elected representatives assembled 
in a parliament. In 1947 the constitution was drawn up and ratified by a 
constituent assembly and the government was in the hands of a temporary 
body. There was no conflict about this matter.

5.	To-day's political stand off is the result of the delay and failure 
to implement the results of the 1990 general elections. The root of the 
trouble is a wrong  interpretation and misunderstanding of the political 
issues. This is a political matter that can only be resolved by 
political means. The best and only way to obtain reconciliation between 
all the people of the country is to meet together and negotiate. In the 
matter of convening parliament also, all should unite and work together 
to make it happen. Then only, the respect of all the people within and 
outside the country will be obtained and authority can be exercised.

6.	We therefore make this request to both the opposing but powerful 
forces who can make or break the country to immediately meet together 
with all the other nationalities and democratic groups and negotiate to 
find solutions for all the pressing problems that the country is now 
facing including the convening of parliament. 

7.	We are worried that if this political tension increases, the gap will 
widen which forebodes a grim future for the country and evil 
consequences will follow. To solve the present crisis that the country 
is facing the slate should be wiped clean, and all hatred eliminated. 
Then only reconciliation and unity will result. The State Peace and 
Development Council has stated that one of its objectives is " to 
achieve national unity". In any process for national unity, dialogue and 
negotiation are essential. This is a must . We repeat this as a reminder 
and out of good will and genuine concern.



May the process of reunification of the country meet with success.


                               Bohmu Aung ( Thirty Comrades member)
                               on behalf of my political colleagues

                               




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