International Human Rights Day Ceremony Held Under Junta's Microscope

Original Source - DVB's Maung Htoo, Thailand

On December 10, A meeting to mark the International Human Rights Day was held in Kyi' Myin Taing, Yangon, at the home of U Myint Aye's, the leader of the HRDP (Human Rights Defenders and Promoters). The meeting, held from 9:00 until 10:30 am, was attended by about 100 people, the members around the country, diplomats from the United States of America, some public members with interest in Human Rights as well as staff members of Sun Arr Shin (Power Rangers) - the government's public movement control officials.

'There was no arrest or interfering during the ceremony but , there had been warnings of prohibiting a few days earlier so the occasion was held at home instead of a public hall. The general atmosphere of the event was also anxious, worried and tense.' said one HRDP member.

' The four power ranger officials sat through the meeting peacefully, however there were more officials sitting in the 2 parked cars on the road and also other military intelligent officials on the motor bikes who watched and took photos of all the attendants. '

'It is a great shame that this honourable human achievement celebration had to be held in fear and worries. It is just the mirror reflection of our country's sad situation.'

HRDP issued a statement, asking the military government to respect human rights. Messages from Asian Human Rights Organisation and 1988 student generation were also read. Human Rights reports from Rakine, Zegone, Natalin, Yangon, Bogalay and Puthein townships were also presented by each delegate.

For full and original report please click here.