Independence and Political Prisoners
Spirit of Panglong
08 January, 2006
Burma owes a deft of gratitude to the Shans, Kachins and Chins for gaining Independence from the British. At present, The SPDC is trying to belittle the role played by ethnic groups in the struggle for Independence, the most conspicuous of which is by the Saopha of Viengsur (Wuntho) immediately after the last Burmese King Thibaw was deposed.
Sao Sam Htun, the SaoPhalong of Mongpawn, the Martyr who fell alongside Bogyoke Aung San, was another prominent Shan Leader. The first president of an Independent Burma, Sao Shwe Htaike, the Saopha of Yawnghwe and Sao Kya Hseng, the Saopha of Hsopaw were brutally murdered by the Ne Win clique.The Shans considered and respected them as Martyrs.Without the historic Panglong Agreement of 1947, there would not be Union of Burma. Here is the Preamble of 1947 constitution in case we forget.
"The People of Burma, including the Frontier Areas and the Karenni States, determined to establish in strength and unity a Sovereign Independent State. To maintain social order on the basis of the eternal principles of justice, liberty and equality and to guarantee and secure to all citizens: - justice, social, economic and political; Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith, Worship, Vocation, Association and action; Equality, of status, of opportunities and before the law."
The above is a firm commitment to democracy and Human Rights, which the various military juntas deny and refuse to comply with the ethnic groups are groaning under such outrageous behavior. All yearn for the Second Independence, which the Shans has initiated. The SPDC acted like barbarians, thus antagonizing ethnic minorities.
We strongly protest the SPDC's handling of the Shan Leaders under detention on since Feb, 2005. The penalty applied is preposterous. It is an injustice condemned by the international community as well as cultured people everywhere. It is a system imposed by a majority race on minority race.
We would like to request the ICRC to seek an interview with the Shan Leaders to see if there is torture and abuse of power by the various prison guards. We learnt that SNLD Chairman Khun Htun Oo is transferred to Putao prison, Gen Sur Hten (SSA.north) in Hkamti prison, Sai Nyunt Lwin (SNLD secretary) is in Kalemyo prison, Sai Hla Aung (SNLD) and five others to Kyaukhpyu prison. Note that Sao Khun Kyaw is a P.O.W. and should be applied, and we request the ICRC to observe closely if there is torture and abuse of prisoners is allowed including the use of shackles on them.
This is the will of the Shan People
Spirit of Panglong
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