PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL CONVENTION

5 December 2005

From The New Light of Myanmar 6 December 2005

The Plenary Meeting of National Convention (5-12-2005)

National Convention working for emergence of State constitution, first and essential step to democratic transition To build genuine, discipline-flourishing democracy system is to work together in accord with seven-point Road Map

The following is the translation of the opening speech delivered by Chairman of the National Convention Convening Commission Lt-Gen Thein Sein at the Plenary Meeting of the National Convention.

Respected National Convention delegates,

I am very glad to see tha, you, delegates are here to attend the National Convention. The first thing I would like to say is that I am so grateful and honoured to you for your active participation in the National Convention with the firm determination that the emergence of a State constitution is a national duty, setting aside your own personal affairs.

At the previous session of the National Convention, the NC Convening Work Committee assessed the matters related to executive and judicial sectors discussed by over 1,000 of the eight groups of delegates and submitted them to the commission.

At this session, the reviews and assessments of the panel of chairmen will be clarified to you and detailed basic principles regarding executive and judicial sectors will be laid down after seeking approval of you all, delegates.

As for the remaining chapters regarding the communication among the Hluttaws, findings of the chairman of the work committee concerning duties and functions of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Pyithu Hluttaw, National Hluttaw and State and Region Hluttaws will also be clarified to you for your suggestion and decision.

Similarly, to be able to discuss sector-wise chapters such as fundamental rights and duties of citizens and the role of the Tatmadaw, the work committee will clarify findings on drafting a State constitution that is best suited for our country after studying in detail 1947 constitution and 1974 constitution, state constitutions of some neighbouring and western nations during the adjournment of the plenary session of the National Convention.

Like the previous session, most of the delegates are here attending the National Convention except those who passed away, who are too old and who are in poor health. There are also some new delegates here. Most of them have already been on familiar terms and they have understanding each other. Our National Convention has gained more and more success due to the efforts of like-minded delegates and their frank discussions and suggestions.

However, it has been common knowledge to you all, delegates, that groups of internal and external destructive elements, not wanting to see the success achieved, are resorting to various ways to obstruct and harm our National Convention. We need to be vigilant against such dangers and perpetrations. As the public on their part are now able to distinguish between constructive acts and destructive acts, the only thing to do is to guard against any dangers through the strength of the people.

To fulfill the desire of the public, the government has laid down the seven-point Road Map of the State for the country’s transition into a genuine discipline-flourishing democracy. The National Convention is working for the emergence of the State constitution that is the first and essential step to our democratic transition.

In other words, we can say we are taking the first step of the seven-point Road Map. To build a genuine, discipline-flourishing democracy system is to work together in accord with this seven-step Road Map, and there is no other way. We have learnt there have been some countries that went into a state of deterioration because of their being forced to hastily practise democracy. The people today cannot be cheated and threatened.

The present Tatmadaw government, since its assumption of State duties, has been striving its utmost to build a peaceful and modern developed nation upholding ‘Our Three Main National Causes’ and the twelve State objectives. If one has ability to distinguish right and wrong, one can witness that the State is on the right path to its progress in political, economic and social sectors if compared with previous successive eras.

Systematic measures are being taken to gain a foothold in ensuring peace and stability of the State, strong economy and development of human resources, that are imperative for a transition to an enduring democracy.

At the same time, National Convention is in progress to write a State constitution by inviting more than 1,000 delegates from all walks of life. It is the life-blood of our citizens to serve and protect their interest. And it will be a milestone in our history as well. This is why, you, delegates are urged to work hand in hand with nationalistic fervour and Union Spirit for the success of the National Convention regardless of narrow racism, ideology and regionalism.

The management committee has made preparations for your accommodation, meals, health and entertainment. If there is anything you need you may contact with responsible officials. In conclusion, I would like all of you to take care of your health and try your best to attend the National Convention until it concludes successfully.

1,074 delegates accounting for 99.44 per cent to National Convention present;diplomats, journalists observe

YANGON, 5 Dec — With the six objectives of the National Convention of the State— (a) non-disintegration of the Union (b) non-disintegration of the national solidarity (c) perpetuity of sovereignty (d) flourishing of a genuine multiparty democracy system (e) further burgeoning of the noblest and worthiest of worldly values such as justice, liberty and equality; and (f) the Tatmadaw to be able to participate in the national political leadership role of the future State, the plenary session of the National Convention was held from 17 February to 31 March for 2005 and was temporarily adjourned. The plenary session of the National Convention resumed at Pyidaungsu Hall of Nyaunghnapin Camp in Hmawby Township this morning.

It was attended by Chairman of the National Convention Convening Commission Secretary 1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Thein Sein and members, Chairman of the NCC Work Committee Chief Justice U Aung Toe and members, Chairman of the NCC Management Committee Auditor-General Maj-Gen Lun Maung and members, Chairmen of Sub-committees and officials, delegates of Kokang Democracy and Unity Party, National Unity Party, Union Kayin League, Union Pa-O National Organization, Mro (or) Khami National Solidarity Organization, Lahu National Development Party, Wa National Development Party, representatives-elect of National Unity Party, Mro (or) Khami National Solidarity Organization, independent representatives-elect, delegates of national races from Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Mon, Rakhine, Shan State (South), Shan State (North), Shan State (East), Sagaing, Taninthayi, Bago, Magway, Mandalay, Yangon and Ayeyawady Divisions, delegates of peasants from Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Mon, Rakhine States, Shan (South), Shan (North) and Shan (East) States, Sagaing, Taninthayi, Bago, Magway, Mandalay, Yangon and Ayeyawady Divisions, delegates of intellectuals and intelligentsia, delegates of workers from Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Mon, Rakhine States, Shan (South) and Shan (North), Shan (East) States, Sagaing, Taninthayi, Bago, Magway, Mandalay, Yangon and Ayeyawady Divisions, delegates of State service personnel from the SPDC Office, the President’s Office, the Pyithu Hluttaw Office, the Government Office, the Supreme Court, the Attorney-General’s Office, the Auditor-General’s Office, the Civil Service Selection and Training Board, the Yangon City Development Committee, the Mandalay City Development Committee and ministries, other invited delegates, delegates of 17 armed groups who exchanged arms for peace and Dean of Diplomatic Corps Philippine Ambassador to Myanmar Ms Mme Dhoebe A Gomez, ambassadors of Russia, the Arab Republic of Egypt, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Laos, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, Singapore, Nepal, India and China, Charge d’ Affaires a i from Brunei, Malaysia, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, regional coordinators from UN organizations, officials of Myanmar Foreign Correspondents Club, mediamen from the Ministry of Information and reporters and officials from internal magazines and journals and reporters from foreign news agencies Nihon Keizai Shimbun, AFP, Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS), NHK, Fuji TV, Reuters, Tokyo Shimbun, Asahi Shimbun, TV Asahi, Sankei Shimbun, Ji Ji Press, Yomiuri, VOA, London Financial Times and NTV.

Before the plenary session of National Convention, Chairman of the National Convention Convening Commission Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Thein Sein and members, Chairman of the NCC Work Committee Chief Justice U Aung Toe and members, Chairman of the NCC Management Committee Auditor-General Maj-Gen Lun Maung and members, Chairmen of Sub-committees and officials, delegates of political parties, representatives-elect, delegates of national races, delegates of peasants, delegates of workers, delegates of intellectuals and intelligentsia, delegates of State service personnel, and other invited delegates signed the attendance registers at Pyidaungsu Hall and the recreation hall for NC delegates.

Next, Chairman of the National Convention Convening Commission Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Thein Sein and members, Chairman of the NCC Work Committee Chief Justice U Aung Toe and members, Chairman of the NCC Management Committee Auditor-General Maj-Gen Lun Maung and members cordially greeted foreign ambassadors to Myanmar, Charges d’ Affaires, regional coordinators of UN organizations and reporters of internal magazines and journals and foreign correspondents and replied to the queries raised by mediamen.

The Secretary-1 took the helm of the plenary session, while NCCC Secretary Information Minister Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan acted as MC.

The MC announced the validity of the meeting as 1074 out of 1080 delegates were present, accounting for 99.44 per cent.

The Secretary-1 delivered an address on the occasion. (The Speech is reported separately.)

Then, the session went into recess.

Next, the session resumed. NCCC Secretary Information Minister Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan dealt with rules and regulations of the National Convention Convening and the session went into recess at 9.45 am.

(The presentation is reported separately.) The session continues tomorrow.

Government implementing seven-point Road Map for emergence of a peaceful, modern developed and discipline-flourishing democratic nation Delegates from all walks of life holding discussions at National Convention, first and crucial step of the future policy programme

YANGON , 5 Dec — The following is a translation of clarification on procedures for convening National Convention made by Secretary of the National Convention Convening Commission Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan.

He said he extended greetings to Chairman of the National Convention Convening Commission, members of the commission, members of work committee and management committee and National Convention delegates, wishing health of body and peace of mind. He said he was pleased to meet the delegates again. Those who attended the National Convention held in February and March 2005 were invited. Some of the delegates were vacant for various reasons and so new ones were chosen for the vacancies. In the previous National Convention the delegates abided by the procedures, rules and regulations with sense of duty. Therefore the Convention successfully ended without any difficulties. He explained the procedures for the National Convention and other points on food, health, welfare, entertainment and security to the new and old delegates in brief.

Introduction and seven chapters are included in booklet, Procedures for the National Convention. The six objectives of the National Convention— non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national solidarity, perpetuation of sovereignty, flourishing of genuine multiparty democracy system, further burgeoning of the noblest and worthiest of worldly values, namely justice, liberty and equality in the State and for the Tatmadaw to be able to participate in the national political leadership role of the State are described in the Chapter 1. The delegates are to discuss matters relating to laying down detailed principles for drafting the enduring State Constitution within the framework of the six objectives.

In performing the duties of the National Convention, seven duties and three rights are designated.

All are to enjoy the rights and subject to the duties. Moreover, code of ethics and discipline to be abided by delegates are also drawn. Delegates should realize and abide by these rules which are laid down with the aim of holding the National Convention successfully which is the most important for the State and the people.

Some of the important ethics and rules are as follows:

1. To be loyal to the Union of Myanmar and not to accept any other country’s patronage

2. To follow instructions given by the chairman of group and Panel of Chairmen of the National Convention

3. To comport according to the dignity of a delegate and not to disturb and hinder the functions of the National Convention

4. To discuss matters at the meeting objectively and to avoid speaking ill of others personally or of a certain organization

5. Whenever entering or going out of the meeting hall, all are to bow to the State Flag.

6. Not to bring in arms and ammunition, recorders, hand phones, video cameras, cameras, computers, laptops or such equipment.

7. Before releasing the news about the National Convention officially, the delegates are to keep it secret.

In holding the sessions, panel of chairman is necessary to supervise the session and thus, it is designated to form the panel of chairmen with five representatives from the National Convention Work Committee, ten from delegates of political parties and delegates of representatives-elect , five each from delegates of other six remaining groups. For various reasons, there are vacancies in the panel of chairmen and thus substitutions are to be made.

The Chapter 3 describes scrutiny of the delegates in the session of the National Convention and validity of the meeting. The National Convention meetings are valid if 50 per cent of the delegates attend the meeting.

The Chapter 4 of the Convention deals with the procedures to be followed in discussing matters and making suggestions. He first presented procedures to be followed at the group-wise meetings as follows:

1. Delegates are to submit their proposals and make suggestions to the Panel of Chairmen only after making discussions in respective delegate groups. The Panel of Chairmen is to collect the same proposals and submit them to the National Convention Plenary Meeting.

2. In addition to the proposals agreed by the majority of respective groups, individual proposals or proposals agreed by group or other suggestions are to be submitted to the National Convention Plenary Meeting through the Panel of Chairmen only after making group-wise discussions.

3. Delegates of political parties and representatives-elect are to submit suggestions and proposals agreed by the majority of respective groups to the National Convention Plenary Meeting through the Panel of Chairmen after making group-wise discussions.

4. Along with the proposals agreed by the majority of respective political parties, proposals of delegates representing political parties and independent representatives-elect are to be submitted to the National Convention Plenary Meeting with the permission of the Panel of Chairmen only after making group-wise discussions.

5. If there is a disagreement over the proposals among political parties, respective delegate groups and independent representatives-elect, the National Convention Work Committee will have to make adjustments as far as it can in order to settle the disagreement.

Next, he presented the procedures of the National Convention Plenary Meeting.

1. Proposals and suggestions to be submitted to the National Convention Plenary Meeting are to be stated exactly and clearly.

2. Proposals and suggestions are to be attached with the list of delegate or delegates who will read out them at the meeting and to submit them at the designated time through respective chairmen to the National Convention Work Committee.

3. In reading out the proposals and suggestions at the plenary meeting, the papers must be the ones that have been already submitted in advance to be confirmed. Besides, the papers are to be read out by the one whose name has been already enlisted, and he has to read out only suggestions in the confirmed papers.

4. At the group-wise or plenary meeting, proposals and suggestions are to be submitted in the framework of the six objectives of the National Convention.

5. If there are differences in the suggestions presented to the meeting, the National Convention Work Committee is to make necessary arrangements for making suggestions included again to settle them amicably.

There are also prescribed rules and regulations to be followed in holding discussions at the plenary meeting and the group-wise meeting. They are:

1. do not express disloyalty to the State

2. do not talk about something detrimental to non-disintegration of the Union , non-disintegration of national solidarity and perpetuation of sovereignty

3. do not talk about the interest of organizations and persons that are not in the framework of law

4. do not talk about something that is detrimental to national unity, mutual help and respect

5. do not talk ill of any language and religion

6. do not present again any matter that has already been discussed at the meeting.

7. do not accuse and talk ill of a certain delegate subjectively

8. a delegate is to discuss the topics in line with the proposal paper sent in advance and not to discuss the topics that are not included in the paper. If a delegate reads out some topics that are not included in the proposal paper, only the original paper will be put on record.

When the plenary meeting and the group-wise meeting are in progress, the delegates are not allowed to walk out individually or in group and to mock others. It is important for the delegates to follow the regulations for success of the National Convention.

These regulations are prescribed in the interest of the delegates. Some important points in the don’t are as follows:

1. not to distribute documents that are not permitted by the NC Work Committee

2. not to talk about the documents nor publish them outside

3. not to bring arms and ammunition into the hostels and the meeting hall when the meeting is in progress. The rules and regulations are prescribed not for oppression but in the interests of the national races and delegates and for success of the National Convention. It is believed that all the delegates will realize this.

I would like to present the fulfillment regarding management for enabling the delegates to attend the NC with peace of mind, he said.

For the convenience of the delegates, hostels were renovated and facilitated with other necessary requirements for security, convenience and full water and power supply, he said.

He said arrange-ments have been made for the delegates to enjoy meals with daily menu and for vegetarians to enjoy meals in line with religion.

For the health and fitness of the delegates, gymnasium and golf course that cover table tennis, badminton, weightlifting and other facilities for walking and jogging are being provided.

In the meantime, TV, Karaoke, newspapers, journals and book shops, stage show, Anyeint, variety show, movies are also provided for the delegates. Likewise, a hospital complete with specialists, health staff, modern medicines and medical equipment is being opened in the camp. Winthuza shop, GEC shop, optical shop, barber shop and laundry shop are being opened for the delegates. In addition, telephones, faxes, ferries are also facilitated.

Daily allowance of the delegates has been increased from K 200 to K 500 while the meal cost has been increased so that the delegates can enjoy wholesome and healthy foods.

The government has laid down and is implementing the seven-point Road Map for the emergence of a peaceful, modern developed and discipline-flourishing democratic nation. In the process, the National Convention, the first and crucial step of the future policy programme, is being held. Delegates from all walks of life are holding discussions and making suggestions at the meeting.

It is known to all that internal and external destructive elements, who are jealous of the progress of the National Convention, are making attempts for the NC to meet with a failure.

He wished he cannot accept anything harmful to the National Convention, any delegate or individual and as a result, security was tight.

As these rules and regulations on security are badly needed for delegates and national races, they have to be prescribed. They are not an act of oppression, and all the delegates are requested to cooperate for success of the NC, realizing the prescribed rules.

He spoke of the need for the delegates to raise questions at any time. If the delegates have any difficulties regarding accommodation, health, messing and personal affairs, they are requested to inform the responsible officials, who will try their best to render all the necessary assistance.

In conclusion, he called on the delegates to offer suggestions and advice on detailed basic principles in the drawing of State constitution.

Billboard unveiled to hail National Convention

YANGON, 5 Dec — To hail the National Convention being reconvened today, a ceremony to unveil the billboard reading “ Towards a new united and amicable nation” took place in front of Pyidaungsu Hall in Nyaunghnapin Camp, Hmawby Township , where the National Convention is being held this morning. It was attended by Chairman of National Convention Convening Commission Secretary-1 of State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Thein Sein and commission members, chairman of NCC Work Committee Chief Justice U Aung Toe and committee members, chairman of NCC Management Committee Auditor-General Maj-Gen Lun Maung and committee members, and NC delegates.

Chairman of NCC Management Committee Auditor-General Maj-Gen Lun Maung formally unveiled the billboard and the ceremony ended.

It reads “ Towards a new united and amicable nation” also stating “It is very important for everyone of the nation wherever he lives to cultivate and possess strong Union Spirit. Only Union Spirit is the true patriotism all the nationalities will have to uphold and safeguard”

Source (with pictures): http://mission.itu.ch/MISSIONS/Myanmar/n-convention/NC_6Dec05.htm