DVB spoke to Nang Kham Moe, a parliamentary candidate from the Shan and Nationalities Democratic Party (SNDP), also known as the White Tiger Party.
She is running for a seat in the Pyithu Hluttaw, or lower house of parliament, in Mong Pan Township, southern Shan State, in the regime scheduled elections beginning on Dec. 28.
Nang Kham Moe was born in the Shan State capital of Taunggyi. She has a background in law, economic law, and business administration. She currently serves as an economic advisor for the SNDP and provides legal support to farmers in Shan State.
The Union Election Commission (UEC) stated that a total of 4,963 parliamentary candidates have registered for the regime elections from 57 political parties—six of which will contest nationally.
DVB: Why are you entering politics and what are your aspirations as a parliamentary candidate?
NKM: My political beliefs come from being born and raised in Shan State. I love my people, our region, and our culture. Shan State has experienced decades of conflict. I want to help establish a genuine federal union where all ethnic groups can coexist peacefully, with equality and self-determination.
Shan State is rich in natural resources, but our people still live in poverty. I oppose the extraction of resources without the consent of locals. Development should improve livelihoods and protect the environment for future generations. I also want to bring youth perspectives and new ideas into politics, especially to improve education and healthcare.
Gender equality is essential in policymaking. Women experience the impact of conflict deeply, and their voices must be included in peacebuilding. Competing in this election is part of my effort to build a peaceful and equal federal union for all ethnic people in Myanmar.
DVB: Why did you choose to become a member of the White Tiger Party?
NKM: Because the White Tiger Party is the only Shan ethnic party in Shan State.
DVB: The regime elections have been rejected as a “sham” by resistance forces and many citizens. Why are you competing in this election?
NKM: There are always supporters and opponents of elections. This is the nature of democracy. We are participating for the sake of our ethnic group and our region. I believe the elections are an exit from the current crisis for the people.
If we follow each person’s preferences, our main objectives and strategies could be lost. We are participating in the elections for our ethnic group and our region.
In any country moving toward democracy and federalism, elections must be held. If we refuse elections, we may end up opposing the establishment of a federal union.
DVB: Which parties and individuals will you be competing against in Mong Pan Township of Shan State?
NKM: I will contest for a Pyithu Hluttaw seat under the First Past the Post (FPTP) system. There are only two major parties in my constituency, the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) and the White Tiger Party.
From the USDP, Phyo Zaw Soe, the current regime Deputy Minister of Hotels and Tourism of Shan State, will be my opponent.
DVB: What is the attitude of Mong Pan residents toward the regime scheduled elections?
NKM: People see it as a regular event held every five years, so they don’t view it as something special. However, given the current situation, most are in a wait-and-see position.
DVB: Can political parties campaign freely in Mong Pan Township?
NKM: Since this area is relatively peaceful, there are no major difficulties in campaigning. But in northern Shan State and some mainland areas, campaigning remains challenging.
DVB: Do you believe the regime elections will be free and fair?
NKM: Some people like this election, others don’t. Therefore, some think it’s fair, others don’t – that’s natural. What matters is that individuals must be free to make their own decisions.
Each individual has the right to freely decide to vote, and in the upcoming voting period, people must vote according to their own choices. No one should restrict that right.
DVB: What are the main challenges you face as a candidate?
NKM: There are many. The vetting process for candidates this time is much stricter than in the 2010, 2015, and 2020 elections. I am glad to have passed it.
For other candidates, there are still areas where campaigning is limited. Each candidate must decide how to proceed under these conditions.
DVB: If elected, what will be your first priority?
NKM: My priority is to improve education, healthcare, transportation, and trade. Many farmers face losses due to tax burdens and trade restrictions.
I want to expand markets for local products, attract investment, and create opportunities for young people. Addressing trade problems is key to improving livelihoods.
DVB: Is there anything else you would like to add about your election campaign?
NKM: I would like to tell the people that since each person has the right to freely decide and choose, please choose and vote for the party you prefer.
DVB: Thank you.
