Jan 29, 2008 (DVB), Three members of the Burmese Housewives Association, including the group leader, have been charged under the Unlawful Associations Act, according to a family member.

Daw Su Su Kyi, the mother of BHA member Ma Thet Thet Aung, said her daughter had been charged and was due to appear in court soon, along with the group's chairperson Daw San San Tin and Ma Noe Noe, another member.

"My daughter told me when I visited her in Insein prison on 23 January that she and the two other women have been charged with forming an unlawful association," said Daw Su Su Kyi.

The three housewives were arrested on 18 October 2007 in connection with the public protests in September.

Ma Thet Thet Aung’s husband Ko Chit Ko Lin was also arrested at the same time.

Daw Su Su Kyi said she is now taking care of Ma Thet Thet Aung’s three children; two primary school students and a toddler.

Daw Su Su Kyi added that she is concerned about the health of her daughter and Daw San San Tin, who both suffer from medical problems.

"I am really worried about my daughter as she has a heart condition and hypertension," she said.

"Daw San San Tin is not in good health either , she has a tumour on her neck and is due for an operation."

Violation of the Unlawful Associations Act carries a penalty of up to five years' imprisonment.

Reporting by Moe Aye