The Chin Progressive’s Party (CPP) welcomed Daw Aung San Su Kyi, Chairman of the National League for Democracy (NLD) mentioning ethnicity at the Hluttaw representatives meeting regarding introducing a federal system in Burma.
“Federal is not a frightening word for us. The ethnic groups are also not willing to secede from the Union of Burma. Daw Aung San Su Kyi said that a federal system will be suitable for the country. So, we (CPP) welcomed her move, ” said Pu Zung Hlei Thang, who participated in the meeting.
The meeting was held with Daw Aung San Su Kyi and ethnic groups including the Shan, Arakan, Chin, Pa-O, Phalung Sawa in Nayphidaw, the new capital of Burma on March 6. It discussed the by election to be held next month and ethnic nationalities issues.
“I clearly understand that the federal system which Daw Aung San Su Kyi mentioned includes the essence of self-determination for ethnic groups. The ethnic groups are willing to accept a federal concept as Daw Aung San Su Kyi mentioned. So, we (ethnic groups) welcome Daw Aung San Su Kyi talking about the federal system,” said Pu Thang.
Daw Aung San Su Kyi stated during her trip to Khamti Town of Kachin state on 23 February that the NLD is to contest the by election for establishing a genuine Union of Burma.
Daw Aung San Su Kyi also mentioned in a public meeting during the Khamti trip that the party will contest the by election for establishing a genuine federal Union of Burma and promote the spirit of the union.
“Daw Aung San Su Kyi explained her views on the ethnicity of Burma. So, Burma should not bring into play the word ethnic. We (Burmans) should use the ethnic word in the union of Burma,” said Mr Thang.
The 2008 Burma constitution which has very little legislative power, executive power and justice in the states and divisions level was criticized by the CPP, said Pu Thang.
“The Mizoram state of India parliamentary system can select a state Chief Minister. They also have a state legislative, executive and justice systems. So, we cannot say that states and divisions of Burma are not collectively included in the Union” said Thang.
Pu Thang hoped that next month’s by election, which is preparing 48 constituencies in Burma will not change Burma’s political transition, but if Daw Aung San Su Kyi is included in Burma’s Hluttaw, the country will change. Khonumthung news