Oct 2, 2007 (DVB), The government-backed Union Solidarity and Development Association in Mandalay division forced local residents to sign up to a counter-protest held yesterday in support of the Burmese government, according to a witness who attended the event.

Protestors gathered in the town of Pyin Oo Lwin, where the government Defence Service Academy is located, holding posters and placards.

The protest was organised by USDA to denounce the recent anti-government demonstrations and pledge support for the newly-completed National Convention.

Town residents and government employees were forced to sign up for the protests by USDA members, according to the witness.

Reporting by Naw Say Thaw