As the National League for Democracy kicks off its first national congress, DVB asked a group of NLD members and leaders from national opposition parties what they expected to come from the convention.
Myint Thein, secretary, National League for Democracy-Liberated Area
“Over the past 20 years, the [NLD] was unable to facilitate such a congress and based on our study of the [NLD’s] preparations up to this day for the event, they should be able to do this successfully. Therefore, this congress is very important and we believe that the NLD will be able to deliver results that are relevant to today’s [political] environment.”
Khun Htun Oo, chair, Shan Nationalities League for Democracy
“I don’t see that much change will come under [the 2008] constitution. This is the crux of the matter. Without amending it, we’ll still have to continue “limping” along. I don’t have much hope that the [NLD] will amend it.”
Maung Maung Soe, Congressional Representative, NLD Magwe
“If everyone can be unite and follow in one direction, we will be stronger and should be able to come up with future plans, directions and guidelines during the congress. If we all unite and work together, there is no way we will not succeed. I absolutely believe that we will succeed.”
Pu Gin Kam Lian, General Secretary, Zomi Congress for Democracy
“On November 20, 2010, ethnic organisations and political parties signed an agreement to convene the second Panglong, or the 21st Century Panglong conference that was also [recommended] by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. She was appointed to follow up with the plan. We have our hopes that she will follow up.”
Soe Thein, NLD, former Central Executive Committee member
“That the NLD leadership is not appointed via power centralisation, but are elected unanimously by the membership is very important. We can work more effectively when there is trust among each other. We will be more powerful and stronger. And we shall be able to make more sharp and transparent decisions. We hope that we will reach to that stage.
“After joining the parliament, the NLD has a responsibility to amend the constitution and to bring development to the country while relying on the people’s support. I think the NLD Congress being held on 8, 9 and 10 March signifies a victory.”
