Gen Than Shwe Too Busy To Run The Country, Due To Family Business Responsibilities

15 January 2008
Original Source : Nicknayman (and a photo)

It is hardly surprising that senior general Than Shwe, so-called head of the State for Burma, can't cope with all the country's troublesome political, economical and humanitarian affairs. He is far too busy, looking after his family running their many businesses across the region!

The photo shows, Tun Naing Shwe, the eldest son of Than Shwe. Although he owns many businesses, he is known as the poorest in the family. He sadly owns only 12 mansions, as well as the J Doughnuts and My Milk restaurant chains. He also jointly owns 35% share of contracts with an import/export company, run by ethnic Chinese group, born in Burma.

The countless businesses he owns in the country includes Dim Sum shops, trading of imported goods from Thailand, Queen Orange Juice Concentrates, Dream Jelly and J-J Night Clubs, and Thai restaurants with Karaoke. It is reported that he also owns businesses in Thailand, China and Indonesia.

His business partner is Joseph Khin Maung Thein, son of U Aung Thein and they jointly own the J & J Company. Joseph supervises his businesses in Thailand, while his sister Carol manages the businesses in China, as a cosy family arrangement.

There has been an appeal to every responsible and self-respecting citizen to boycott all these businesses which have been taken over and run by robbers of the military junta, their families and their crowds of sycophant followers.

Insein Prison News

16 January 2008
Original Source : Nicknayman

On 14 January, De Nyein Linn and U Kyaw San were charged under section 505 b. There are no dates for the trial yet.

On 15 January, Ko Min Zay Yar, Ko Aung Thu, Ko Than Myint, Ko Myint Han, Ko Aung Than Myint, Ko Tin Win, Ko Aung Kyaw Kyaw, Ko Aung Naig and Ko Ko were all moved from the special unit to the main building. The reason for this move was unknown.

On 16 January, Maung Si Thu Maung (21), Maung Ye' Myat Hein (17), Maung Ye' Min Oo (22), Ko Kyi Hpyu and U Thein Swe were due to appear before Bahan magistrate court, charged under section 505 b.

U Win Tin Hospitalised

16 January 2008
Original Report by Htet Aung Kyaw, DVB

Rumours of the famous political prisoner U Win Tin being hospitalised, are spreading among the families of fellow prisoners, it is reported.

He was admitted to the hospital, not long after Ko Hla Myo Naung, 8888 Generation Student Leader, who has been suffering from the damaged eyes, was sent there, according to the families. However, U Maung Maung Kin, who regularly visits U Win Tin, denied knowing anything about the news. He insisted that U Win Tin was not in bad health, when he last visited him in prison, on Saturday.

U Win Tin just asked for more medicines as precribed by a leading senoir doctor but except for the tingling sensation around his stomach, where an operation has yet to be done, he was generally in good health, according to U Maung Maung Kin.

"He told me he was alright and there was nothing wrong with him, quite cheerfully."

However, U Maung Maung Khin promised to make inquiries after the concerned shown at the news of the hospitalisation of U Win Tin, as it emerged only yesterday.

U Win Tin, 78, known as master or teacher among his associates, is a well-respected and famous journalist, and also a leading figure of the National League for Democracy Party. He was arrested in 1989 by military intelligence and has been serving nearly 20 years in prison, sometime in a prison dog kennel. Lately, his health has deteriorated and he was admitted to hospital often.

He famously refused frequent offers by the military junta - his freedom in exchange for a signed promise to give up all political activities.

He commented on the meeting held between Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and the junta liaison minister :

"The good news is that the communication minister was in the meeting with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. The bad news is that nobody knows what they are talking about, not even the agenda ! "

To sign the petition for the release of Saya U Win Tin, please click here.

Authorities Intervene in Taunggok's Protest, USDA and Swan Arr Shin Militia Ready

17 January 2008
Original Report by Naw Say Paw, DVB, Thailand

An estimated crowd of 200 people gathered this morning to launch a protest but the 'authorities' intervened and dispersed the crowd.

"The crowd in town centre market place was about 70 people, while another crowd was gathered in front of the hospital, altogether about 200 strong," said a participant.

It is assumed that the information of the planned protest was leaked. "As we were gathering, the security forces appeared and intimidated us. We dispersed but small crowds were still lingering around. We then gathered in front of the hospital, where the Chair of the township PDC told us not to start trouble and create work for them, in a threatening manner."

"All forms of transport to town was blocked, including the jetty so that they can stop the people from surrounding area joining the protests. The town centre market is also closed and the shop keepers were forced to leave. All the schools have been also closed and the children sent home"

A resident described the atmosphere as very tense. "An estimated 5000 security forces are now in place. They have taken position at every road junction. Ambush patrols are also standing by. USDA and Swan Arr Shin Militia are all over town as well. They are equipped with cameras, batons and going around town on motorbikes, taking photos of everyone they see, saying the bastards would be dragged away when needed."

However, it is widely predicted that the moment the security steps down, the protest will start. "From the bottom of our hearts, we cannot accept that our peaceful conduct merits such terrible intimidation or prevented by any 'authorities'. If we are forced to disperse this time, then we will just have to plan for the next time, until we succeed."

Taunggok Protests, Roads and Schools Closed

17 January 2008 Press Release
Original Report by Naw Say Paw

This morning, police forces dispersed the gathering of around 200 people to launch a protest, in Taunggok, Arakan (Rakhine), it is reported.

At 7:00 am, a crowd of about 70 people gathered in front of the town centre market place, for a walking protest, to demonstrate the daily suffering and troubles, faced by ordinary civilians, according to one participant.

News of the planned demonstration, however was leaked and authorities managed to intervene the marching before it started and dispersed the crowd.

To stop the people from the surrounding area joining the protest, all the transportation system to town has been blocked, including the jetties. All the schools and markets were also being closed.

Taunggok, famous for its political activities, since last September, still has their leading political members being detained.

The authorities suspected the involvement of the town's National League for Democracy Party in today's protests and the deputy chair U Than Pe' was taken away for a 30 mins long interrogation at 11 :00 pm, last night.

The atmosphere in town is still very tense this afternoon and there are predictions that the protests will start as soon as the security forces are being reduced.

AAPP Highlights SPDC's Responsibility

15 January 2008
Original report by Moe Aye, DVB

The comments from U Bo Kyi, Joint General Secretary, AAPP (Assistance Association of Political Prisoners) were reported as below:

The ill-treatment and torture received by all political prisoners are the sole responsibility of the SPDC government, especially Than Shwe, current head of state. If someone loses their eyesight, it is an irreplacable loss for him, for life. It is also a severe loss for his family.

The other important fact is that these 8888 Generation Students Groups, including Ko Hla Myo Naung, are not terrorists. They are working very hard to transform the country using the most peaceful methods.

If people such as these are to be treated in such a way, that these are not just personal losses, but a growing national loss for all the people of the nation.

We have collected a lot of information about the torture and abuse of the political prisoners, and are extremely concerned about Ko Kyaw Soe and Ko Win Maw's hospitalisation, due to the violent abusive to which they have been subjected in prison.

Another important fact is that Than Shwe's SPDC government is subjecting the torture and abuse to the political prisoners, not because they want or need information, but simply to intimidate the bulk of the population.

In violently and deliberately abusing all of our brave political representatives, the obsessive and paranoid junta, mistakenly believe their revenge will be a deterrent.

Appeal For the International Red Cross To Treat Political Prisoners

15 January 2008
Original report by Moe Aye, DVB

"All the political prisoners have been only trying to express their desire for National Reconciliation peacefully and therefore should be released immediately. Although the military government says it is trying for National Reconciliation, no effort has been shown towards making peace among the parties," said Ko Soe Tun from 8888 Generation Students Group.

"It is an extremely sad business for everyone. For instance, Ko Min Ko Naing is suffering from toothache but he hasn't received proper treatment for that. He couldn't even speak properly when he sister came to see him in the prison." He then urged the government to allow ICRC, the International Committee of the Red Cross to make an emergency visit to the prisons.

"We earnestly appeal for the government to allow political prisoners to recieve emergency health treatments and other humanitarian needs, provided by ICRC."

Tortured Musician Sent To Prison Hospital, 8888 Hla Myo Naung Loses Eyesight

15 January 2008
Original report by Moe Aye, DVB

Ko Win Maw

Guitarist Ko Win Maw from Shwe Thanzin Band, a detainee in Insein prison was sent to a prison hospital ungently after the torture sessions, conducted by MSA (Military Security Affairs) got out of hand, it is reported.

He was arrested on 27 November by the police special branch and since last Saturday , was handed over to the MSA for interrogation, during which he was subjected to torture methods including dripping water on the head and drowning. When Ko Win Maw became too ill as a result of the abuse, he was sent to the prison hospital, with suspected collapsed lungs.

However, the treatment for him cannot start yet as the hospital staff have to await permission from the Minister of Home-Affairs.

Ko Kyaw Soe, who went through the abusive interrogation sessions alongside Ko Win Maw, is also fighting for his life in the same hospital.

Ko Hla Myo Naung

One of 8888 Generation Student leaders, Ko Hla Myo Naung, another Insein prison detainee, is losing his eyesight, according to his family and friends.

He was arrested on the way to a clinic for his eye operation on 10 October, last year. Although his eye operation was allowed to go ahead the next day, he was sent to Insein prison immediately afterwards and since then has not received any more treatment to his eyes. Now, after 3 months, his other eye has also deteriorated and he is losing sight.

Htin Kyaw To Sue Junta Over New Charges

Jan 16, 2008 (DVB)
Reporting by Aye Nai

High-profile activist Htin Kyaw has said he will sue the government for breach of promise after they decided to prosecute him for a solo demonstration he staged in March 2007.


Htin Kyaw is already facing charges for his role in demonstrations over commodity prices, for which he has been detained since August last year.

He was originally charged under section 505(b) of the penal code for causing public alarm, but an unlawful assembly charge has since been added.

Htin Kyaw attended a court hearing at Pabedan township court on 9 January, and is due to appear before the court again on 23 January.

His lawyer was not allowed to see him before the 9 January hearing, and was denied access to the courtroom in an earlier hearing.

In addition to these charges, Htin Kyaw is now being prosecuted for staging a solo demonstration in Kamaryut township on 22 March after authorities refused to allow him to become a monk.

He is due to attend a separate hearing on these charges on 25 January at Kamaryut township court.

But Htin Kyaw told his wife, Ma Than Than Maw, that he will sue the government for reneging on their promise not to prosecute him for his March protest.

Htin Kyaw was arrested during his solo protest but was released the following day and said that authorities told him they would not press charges.

�He told me that he is going to sue the government for breaking the promise given to him by the nation�s leaders,� said Ma Than Than Maw.

She added that Htin Kyaw had informed the Kamaryut township judge, police chief, court staff and special police officials of his intention.

Ten Civilians Killed As Burma Army Increases Presence In Karen State

Wed, 2008-01-16 05:26
London, 16 January, (Asiantribune.com): Over 90 Burmese Army battalions, comprising between 11,000 and 14,000 troops, are operating in Karen State, potentially poised for another major offensive.

At least 10 villagers have been killed in the same State in the last two months as the Burma Army continues to launch attacks against civilians. Hundreds have fled attacks, thousands remain in hiding and living conditions are so extreme as many are unable to return to their villages and farms.

According to reports from the Free Burma Rangers, the Army has been consolidating its presence in the regions it took control of during the 2006-2007 offensive, by expanding its network of camps and roads. These new road developments will supply all the army camps in the area. However, it has made travel very difficult for villagers, Internally Displaced People (IDPs) and those providing aid. Since the beginning of 2006, over 54 new army camps have been built. The troop presence amounts to a 50 per cent increase since the height of the offensive in 2006.

The Burmese Army has been shelling villages and IDP sites in Karen State and killing civilians whilst on their patrols. Toungoo District remains the most vulnerable region in northern Karen State. In this district alone, it is estimated that there are now around 7,000 people in hiding from the regular attacks launched on villages and IDP populations. The Burmese Army is constructing two new roads in Toungoo District to link their camps and now have over 27 battalions in the district. Villagers face forced labor on a daily basis, being made to act as road-clearers, minesweepers and porters.

Christian Solidarity Worldwide’s Advocacy Director, Tina Lambert, said: “The world was shocked by the killings of demonstrators in the cities of Burma in September 2007. However, the ongoing horrific attacks against the ethnic groups of Burma are less well known despite the fact that they have taken place for almost 60 years. We condemn the onslaught of the Burmese Army against its innocent civilians and urge the international community to assist ethnic groups like the Karen people through direct aid and diplomatic action.”- Asian Tribune -

ILO Case In Pago Over Junta's Trickery

15 January 2008
Original report by Ye May Aung, DVB
Translation by Nay Chi U

Followers of the junta have been forcing ordinary civilians to clear barren land for farming and were then plotting to jail them; they are to be reported to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), according to a lawyer in Pago (also known as Pegu).

After farmers from Bau Ni, Dike U were being forced to clear some wild land of the surrounding area, three of them - Daw Tin Mar Mar, a midwife, U San Shwe and U Soe Maung were sued for trespassing (under section 447). They were subsequently found guilty and jailed for 3 months on 28 December, by Dike U magistrate court. It is understood that the land they were working are owned by the nephew of the junta leader General Than Shwe.

All the lands, owned by the three victims, as well as 150 acres of lands owned by 10 other Bau Ni residents, were seized by a company called Myat Min.

It all started in 2006, when the District Authority chairman Major Maung Maung Kywe and the township chairman U Myint Sein and the team arrived to Bau Ni, Dike U to order the villagers to clear the waste land along side the Rangoon - Mandalay motorway.

The villagers were asked to attend the meeting held in a primary school, where the authorities told them, "Instead of chopping wood and making charcoal, you are better off clearing the waste lands to start farming. Just make sure you reach the target of the project - producing 30,000,000 tins of rice - then we promise that you will own the land", according to U Myint Aye, the defendants lawyer.

When the villagers cast doubts over the ownership, they were primised that "The person who farms it,owns the land". However, just after a year, in 2007, there were claims that the land they have been farming was owned by Phyo La Wai, the nephew of Daw Kyaing Kyaing, who happened to be the wife of general Than Shwe, and the farmers were ordered to move out. When the order was refused, all were taken to court.

During the hearing, the local 'authorities', the so-called Peace and Development Council secretary U Aye Wai, and also members of the land registry department flatly denied their involvement in urging the villagers to clear the land to farm. The company, who claimed ownership of the now-fertile land of about 150 acres, which had been cleared and treated by the farmers from Bau Ni, is now known as Zayar Phyo Company.

"It is issumed that they wanted the fertile land, free of charge, so forced the farmers to do the clearing, using their sweat and blood, before kicking them out. By using and dropping the big names like Daw Kyaing Kyaing and general Than Shwe, they tried to squash the involvement of the forced labour, ordered by the local authorities."

It was only Daw Tin Mar Mar, U San Shwe and U Soe Maung, that were taken to court while the other 10 farmers, who also refused to move out of the land were not. "Only the 3 leading figures were targetted. The idea is to jail them first and the rest will be easy to deal with. But now about 300 farmers from the area are all going to Dike U, to offices and courts as they are all unhappy about the whole case."

The complaint letters have been prepared for sending off to ILO and junta leader General Than Shwe within days. Documentary evidence and records were prepared by family members of the victims.

Taung Dwingyi NLD Leaders Taken Away Without Explanation

15 January 2008
Original reporty by Ye May Aung, DVB
Translation by Nay Chi U

It is reported that U Maung Soe and U Par Lay, leading members of the National League for Democracy Party, Taung Dwingyi, Magwe' were being taken from their homes, by an unknown group believed to be from the military junta, without explanation.

U Par Lay,who is a secretary of the Party Promotional Committee, Taung Dwingyi NLD, was at home in Chaung Net Village, when he was arrested at 1:00 pm on Sunday 13 January.

At 4:00 pm, on the same day, U Maung Soe, the Deputy Chair of Taung Dwingyi NLD was also taken from his home,in Taung Pyin, Taung Dwingyi.

They were taken away in a van, which had a star sign on the number plate. The 6 unknown people who took the NLD Members away, were accompanied by members of the local police.

Both gentlemen were being hand cuffed (with hands behind them) and blind-folded, in front of the family members, before being driven away.

The family members asked the unknown group to identify themselves, explain the reasons for the abduction and also where the NLD Members are being taken to. The lack of any answer has left the families extremely worried and concerned for the safety of the two gentlemen.

Junta Incapable of Managing The Power Supply

12 January 2008
Original report by Thet Naing, DVB
Translation by Nay Chi U

Ordinary civilians who live in the towns of Magwe' Division such as Pakkoku and Ye' Sagyo are suffering because the power supplies have been cut from 6 hours a day to just one night every 3 days, it is reported.

Business owners, who can't afford to buy a generator, have had their businesses come to a halt. Consequently, labourers who depend on their daily income are in deep trouble and the local factories which produce daily goods are struggling to survive.

"Snack shops need their batter mixed daily so they just have to close the shop on the days that they can't get the electricity. Small factories producing scented candles, thanaka (Burmese natural make up, made from trees)etc., all suffer too as they rely on the regular reliable power supply."

Some manufacturers who can afford generators also found that business is not profitable as the fuel prices have gone up so steeply.

"With normal power supply, our products can be sold for K 500/- each but with generator power we have to charge K1000/- for the same goods at least. We have employed workers but they are just having non-working days most of the time. Since we have a hire contract, we still have to pay them their daily fees, and we are losing a lot," said one employer.

Every other area in Burma has similar problems as the power supply 'services' have been gradually going from bad to worse, and now virtually non-existent, since the military government took over the country in 1962. The leading generals changed - from Nay Win to Khin Nyunt to now Than Shwe. Names of the ruling bodies changed - from Socialist Government to SLORC to now SPDC. However none, after all these years, has ever been able to muster the competence, to manage to supply the country with the sufficient electric power.

Young Martyr Ko Ko Win

Original source : Nicknayman blog (and a photo)

Since 1962, there have been countless Democracy Freedom Fighters, who have been brutally killed by the ruthless military junta. One of those young martyrs, who selflessly and willingly gave their lives for the freedom of their beloved country was Ko Ko Win.

The eldest son of U Htay Oo and Daw Win Win Myint, who lived in 376 Marga Road, 12th Quarter, South Okkala, Ko Ko Win protested in September's Golden Colour Revolution. On 27 September, at the foot of Shwe Dagon Pagoda, he was beaten by soldiers and riot police. His head, back and chest were hit with steel batons. He was being treated at first in local clinics, but was sent to Thingun Gyun Hospital on 24 October, as his condition was worsening. He died on 3nd November, as a result of the head injuries he sustained during the murderous attack.

Burma, an independent country, but in name only, will be the scene of much more fightings until Democratic Freedom is achieved and inevitably, many more of its most precious stars will fall.

By Nwe Aye
(Translated by Nay Chi U)

Child Martyr Maung Thet Piane Soe

Original Source : Nicknayman Blog (and a photo)

During the September Golden Colour Revolution, a young person called Maung Thet Piane Soe aka Kalama Gyi decided to join other protesters on the road, demonstrating for lower commodity prices, the release of political prisoners (including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi), National Reconciliation and an apology from the military government to the monks in Pakkoku.

On 27 September, the tenth day of the public protests, Maung Thet Piane Soe could be seen actively marching in the front line, wearing a T shirt which read ,'Free Aung San Suu Kyi', heading towards Tar Mwe', from Sule' Pagoda.

As the protesters approaching Tar Mwe High School No. 3, they were attacked by armed troops, wearing Division 66 badges, which brutally and violently attacked the peaceful civilian protesters. Maung Thet Piane Soe, who was marching at the front was shot in the head and killed instantly.

The soldiers kicked his body into the drain after taken his possessions including a school bag and some cash.

Maung Thet Piane Soe, who lived in 20, Min Nanda Road, Bo Tun Zan, Daw Pone was also a National League for Democracy Youth Member. The youngest of U Myint Win and Daw Aye Pyone's three sons, he went to school at High School No 1 in Daw Pone. However, at Year 9, he had to take a gap year from his study, due to the high tuition fees which the family could no longer afford.

He was also actively involved in Daw Pone Youths Working Group's Re-organization, starting from May, 2007 and known for his reliability as well as his helpful and supportive manners.

Maung Thet Piane Soe was 15 year and 4 months old when he was shot and murdered by the junta's soldiers.

By Noon Set
(Translated by Nay Chi U)

NLD Youth Member's Trial

10 January 2008
Original report by Aye Aye Mon, DVB 2008
Translation by Nay Chi U

Thingun Gyun's National League for Democracy Party youth member Ko Mya Than Htike, who was arrested in connection with September protests, appeared before court yesterday, it was reported.

The youngster, who has been detained in Insein prison was originally charged under section 5 (J). However, yesterday, his charges were changed to section 505 B : offences against the state or public's tranquility and section 147:for gathering more than 5 people.

Ko Mya Than Htike was shot while protesting near Sule' Pagoda on 27 September, last year and was treated for a week in Rangoons' General Hospital but sent to Insein prison, before his wound was healed.

Rakhine NLD Secretarys' Appeal Rejected

10 January 2008
Original report by Naw Say Paw, DVB
Translation by Nay Chi U

U Khin Hla, Secretary of the National League for Democracy Party, Rakhine, who is serving 4 years in Than Dwe prison, has had his appeal rejected by Than Dwe' District magistrate's court today, it is reported.

U Khin Hla was arrested on 28 November, put on trial, prosecuted and sentenced to 4 years and 3 months imprisonment on the same day. It is understood that the opportunity-seeking local 'authorities' took advantage of a family dispute to seize him, although the family is now reconciled.

About 7000 locals have already added their signatures to a petition calling for the release of U Khin Hla and also Deputy Secretary Ko Min Aung.

Three monks from Sittwe have been in prison and three others have been detained for interrogation. Ko Ye' Min Oo, a university student from Gwa and three other men have been also detained.

NLD member U Ye' Thein from Boo Thee Daung has been arrested and sent to a psychiatric hospital.

U Than Hlaing, joint secretary of NLD Party, Rakhine said," At this crucial time, all selfishness and pride should be set aside and we should all be concentrating on holding meaningful discussions, for the current and long-term benefit of the country's development and future. It is vitally important that all the political prisoners are released immediately, otherwise the notion of meaningful discussions will be like writing on the surface of water. It would be a farce and not believable, and if meaningful discussions are not going to happen, I am afraid the unnecessary deaths and suffering will continue, like in a vicious circle."

Military Junta On Arresting Spree

10 January 2008
Original report by Htet Aung Kyaw, DVB


The latest victim of the military junta's arresting spree was U Thet Wai, Chairman, National League for Democracy Party, San Chaung and it is not known where he has been kept, according to the NLD Communication Team.

The veteran political prisoner U Thet Wai, in his 50s, was supporting the 'soloist' U Ohn Than at his trial at Kyauk Ta Daa magistrate's court, when he was arrested yesterday, after he was seen arguing with a police official at about 1:00 pm, the eye witness reported.

"The Deputy Sergeant arrived and Hla Tun (the other official) and he, grabbed U Thet Wai's arms from each side and dragged him into one of the offices. After about half an hour questioning, the police car arrived and took him to Kyauk Ta Daa police station, where they kept him until 10 January".

When the family members of U Thet Wai went to ask about him at the police station, they were given no information, according to U Nyan Win from NLD communication team.

U Thet Wai was the 6th NLD member to be arrested since the New Year and with other activists included, 11 people have been arrested within the first 9 days of 2008.

NLD members Ko Kyaw Kyaw, Ko Kyaw Zin Win and two others, from Daw' Pone and Miss Htet Htet Aung from South Dagon were all arrested within the first week.

Five other people, who have been arrested are known as Ko Ko Maung and Ko Min Han from Mingaladon, a monk and two students.

Despite pledging to make 2008 a year of reconciliation, the junta evidently intend to carry on with their arresting spree.

"Altogether 102 members have been arrested, and are facing trial while being detained or imprisoned. The reason for the arrests is not known. The figures are very distressing. This is the time we should all concentrate on dialogue and National Reconciliation and the situation is appalingly bad if the authorities continue with these arrests and fail to release the politicians, including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi," said U Nyan Win.

(Please note that Ko Tun Tun Naing, NLD member from Insein has also been arrested and detained in Insein prison since 3 January. )

Ko Htin Kyaw's Trial Held In Insein Prison, While His Lawyer Was Kept Outside

9 January 2008
Original report by Aye Nai, DVB


Commodity price protest leader Ko Htin Kyaw's trial was held in Insein prison today. His lawyer was however denied access, it is reported.

Senior Attorney U Aung Thein, who was handed general power from Ko Htin Kyaw, arrived at the prison by mid-day and reported of his presence to the authorities but was neither allowed to see his client nor informed of any details of the case.

"We were told that permission for our entry was not given yet, so we kept on waiting outside the prison. We waited there from 12:00 to 02:45, before we came back. Although I have obtained the general power for him, I wasn't permitted to see my client. I wasn't allowed to see the judge either. I don't even know what time the hearing was held," he said.

Usually, the court hearing for cases which are related to politics are held at township magistrate courts. However, there is evidence that many trials have been held inside the prisons, with the visiting judge and without remand.

U Aung Thein said, "It is already a great loss for the defendant if he does not get the case properly heard in a magistrate court and with his representatives by his side. If that was the intention, then we can't do much about it."

Ko Htin Kyaw was arrested on 24 August and was being held in Insein prison while facing prosecution for 'creating a riot'. During his custody, he staged a hunger strike for 30 days, demanding the release of all political prisoners.

Youths' Charges Reduced To Just One

10 January 2008
Original report by Naw Say Paw, DVB

Four youths, including a university student who were facing 7 charges against them, are now only to be charged under one section : 505 B, it is reported.

Three young men, Ko Si Thu Maung, Ko Ye' Min Oo and Ko Kyi Phyu and a teenage University student Maung Ye' Myat Hein, who have been all detained in Insein prison were facing 7 different charges. However, on 2nd January, U Aye Maung, a judge, who came to see them in prison, explained that they will be charged under section 505 B only and the trial will be held at Bahan magistate court , on 16th of this month, according to Ye' Myat Hein's father U Khin Maung Cho, who visited him.

"When I asked for permission for the boys to see the lawyer, I was told that it is a matter to be dealt with under the Department of Prisons Management. When I went to the Department of Prisons Management, I was told that they will be allowed to see the lawyer on the day of the trial", said U Khin Maung Cho.

He talked of the relief the families felt, when they learnt about the reduction of the charges but there are still some worries about the exams that the students have missed.

"My son was the first year student so he missed exams for 3 subjects, which he needs to resit. We are hoping that he can resit them at the end of January. It is every parent's wish that their kids continue with their education. We are all hoping that all students who have been arrested and detained, like De Nyein Linn, should be allowed to resit their exams", he added.

Ye' Myat Hein, 17 was arrested last October and was subject to torture during the interrogation, while in detention.

According to visitors of Insein prison, Ko Aung Naing of 8888 generation student and all the monks, who are being held there, are to be charged under 'emergency project' ,Section of Act 5 (J)

Missing NLD Member Found At Last, In Prison!'

9 January 2008
Original reporty by Naw Say Paw, DVB

Ko Tun Tun Naing, who left home for work on 3 January and missing since, was found, at last, as a prisoner in Insein prison.

A Member of National League for Democracy Party, Ko Tun Tun Naing, who works as a taxi driver, was arrested on 3 January and since kept in special unit No 2 in Insein prison, his wife Ma Aye Aye Thet learnt from others who visited the prison.

When she went to report a missing person, the officials from the police station took all his personal documents including photos and census. When she went back there again today, she was told, "No information yet. We are still making iquiries. If you heard anything, let us know too,' by the police.

She only found out about her husband's custody when she was told by relatives of fellow prisoners who visited the prison. "You hope that you would be at least informed of your husband's arrest. However,it looks like I have to go and report about his arrest to the police station, quite the other way around", she said.

Ko Tun Tun Naing earns his living as a taxi driver to look after his young family, with an eighteen month old son. The family is now struggling to survive, in his absence.

"I am a full time mother as our child is only 18 months old. We depend entirely on my husband's daily income. I am struggling to cope with all this and selling things by the main road so that my son and I can eat," said Ma Aye Aye Thet, who was also worried about her husband's asthma.

"All he had was what he put on, on that day. He has asthma and he is not very strong to survive in prison condition. All I know is that he is innocent but I am very worried".

"Attack NLD Members With Human Faeces", Military Junta Told Staff

8 January 2008
Original report by Khin Hnin Htet, DVB

The military junta (the 'authorities') did everything to stop members of the National League for Democracy attending the Independence Day celebration in Ye Nan Chaung, including throwing human faeces at them and also shooting pellets, using catapults.

Six members of Pwint Phyu NLD, led by Dr Aung Moe Nyo were detained on 2 January as they were preparing to travel to Ye Nan Chaung, where the celebrations were to be held at NLD chairman U Khin Win's house. They were held at the town's police station for interrogation, conducted by U Aung Ngwe Kyi, the official. During the interrogation, the instructions given to the police officials by PDC (Peace and Development Council) chairman U Hla Htay on the telephone were overheard by Dr Aung Moe Nyo.

He Said, "I heard him saying, 'Keep questioning the bastards', ' Keep giving them pressure', 'Don't release them until 9 am on Independence Day,' 'Let them go if they are heading to the jetty but take all the oars away from the boats', 'Keep all the keys from the motorboats'."

He explained that it was an excessive effort by authorities to stop the members attending the ceremony and there were even instructions to be thuggish, if the members were determined to travel on despite being too late for the celebration.

"I heard every word including , 'If they carry on, ambushed them with pellets using catapults', ' Throw plastic bags full of faeces at them", added Dr Aung Moe Nyo.

The group was arrested at midnight as they were stopping overnight in Nyaung Pin Zauk village, on the way to Ye Nan Chaung and being detained for 2 nights in Pwint Hpyu police station. During the interrogation, they were asked about their planned route to Ye Nan Chaung as well as their opinion on the Seven Road Map planning, laid and guided by military government.

After answering all the questions, they were asked to sign in the interrogation form. However, the members refused to sign anything, following the strict instructions directed by the Central NLD Party. Instead, they wrote a letter, saying their statements were the genuine answers of the questions being asked to them.

Dr Aung Moe Nyo criticized authorities' action, saying ,"To throw faeces at someone who is going to give respect to the National Independence Day ceremony and shoot pellets is the most inhumane action. It was the most thuggish behaviour. No one in their right mind would even think of doing such things."

"It is most disappointing to see 'authorities' who are supposed to be working on peace and development of the nation, behaving and acting more like thugs and criminals,"

"It is also a tragedy for the country and very worrying for its future. The public, who heard the news couldn't believe how low the authorities behaviour would go", said the Doctor, who is also the MP of Pwint Hpyu. "There was no respect to the country's infrastructure, no respect or honour towaeds each other and no shame. It is an extremely sad situation", he added.

To stop the members crossing the river to Ye Nan Chaung, Pwint Hpyu authorities closed the jetty all day on 3 January, which caused other travellers to suffer and boatmen and oarsmen lost their day's income, he explained.

Rights Members Jailed For Talking To Media And Supporting Monks

8 January 2008
Original report by Naw Say Paw, DVB

The appeals against a 2 year sentence for each of the three Human Rights Defender and Promoters network members , including a monk, have been rejected, it is reported.

A Shin Pan Tita aka U Myint Aye, Ko Thet Oo and Ko Zaw Tun were all arrested before 17 September last year, during which time, A Shin Pan Tita was forcefully derobed and beaten.

On 7 November, all three men were charged under section 505b and sentenced to 2 years imprisonment by U Maung Maung, a judge of Prome district magistrate court. Yesterday, their appeal against the decision was rejected, according to U Myint Aye, leader of HRDP network.

"If you look at the judgement, it seems that you are jailed because you talk to the media to report the events, you are jailed because you support the monks' parading and radiating love to everyone. By doing that you have to stay 2 years in prison, This is to stop people talking to media, which means there is no freedom of speech. A violation of basic human rights", said U Mying Aye.

In June, 2007, Ko Myint Naing and Ko Kyaw Lwin both members of Hinthada HRDP network and their supporters, 4 villagers from Oat Pone were all found guilty and sentenced to periods of from 4 to 8 years imprisonment.

Ko Kyaw Soe from Taunggyi and Ko Aung Zaw Oo from Hinthada HRDP networks were arrested and detained in connection with the September protests.

Biased Local Authorities Bully Ordinary Citizens

8 January 2008
Original report by Naw Say Paw, DVB

Ko Win Ko, an ordinary citizen from Taung Talote Village, East Dagon New Town, Rangoon, who was beaten and punched unjustly by Chairman of the local PDC (the so-called Peace and Development Council)is now being held in Insein Prison, facing criminal charges,it is reported.

It all started as Ko Win Ko went to see the farmer Ko Aye Min Soe, who owed K 40,000.00 of farm labour fees to his brother Ko Myint Tun on 31 December. The two men went on to argue about the fees before Ko Win Ko was being punched by U Aye Myint, PDC chairman, who happened to be Ko Aye Min Soe's brother. Daw Aye Sein, chairman's wife also slapped Ko Win Ko's face, according to a family member.

Later, U Aye Myint reported the event to the local police office and on the night of 1 January, Ko Win Ko and his father U Chit Khine were arrested by a team of police officials, led by Deputy Sergeant Thet Zaw Oo.

On the same night the police force also went to the house of Ko Hla Ko, brother of Ko Win Ko, to arrest him as well. When the police couldn't find Ko Hla Ko in the house, one of them went to the bedroom to beat Ma Thida, wife of Ko Hla Ko, who was in bed , with a truncheon. It was understood that Ma Thida was ill at the time. The arrest and search were all conducted by the police force, in the absence of the local authorities (PDC) and also without a warrant, it was reported.

Ko Win Ko and U Chit Khine were sent to Insein prison on 3 January and are due to appear before East Dagon New Town magistrate court on 11 January.

When the town's PDC office and police office were contacted , both refused to answer any question, concerning the case.

Arrests Across The Country, Around Independence Day

7 January 2008
Original report by Naw Say Paw, DVB

Many members of the National League for Democracy Party across the country, have been arrested and detained just before 4 January, the Independence Day, it is reported. Areas, NLD member's name and position, dates of arrest, detention and release are listed as follows:

Shwe Bo, U Than Nyunt (Chairperson) + 4 members , 3 January to 5 January

Ye'Nan Chaung, U Khin Win (Chair), and U Than Aung (promotional team member) , 3 January, until 4 January, pm

Pwint Hpu, MP Dr Aung Moe Nyo + 5 members, 2 January until 4 January, pm

Rangoon, at least 10 (members + other activitists), on several occasions, still being detained.

"All the arrests were thought to be the authorities' desperate effort to stop the NLD members from celebrating the National Independence Day," remarked U Nyan Win of NLD communication team.

Forced Labour Will Be Reported To I L O

7 December 2008
Original report by Naw Say Paw, DVB

The campaign has started today among the citizens of Taunggote, Rakhine, to collect signatures for the petition, informing the International Labour Organisation (I L O) of the 'guard duty' they have been forced to do by authorities, it is reported.

Soon after the September protests, antigovernment activists have been tirelessly campaigning, with propoganda distribution and graffiti writing on the roads, and since the beginning of December, people from all four areas of the town have been forced to do the guard duty to prevent further 'criminal activities' of this kind.

Households who can't send a member to do 'guard duty' are charged a huge penalty payment of about K 10,000 so some families who can't afford the fine, have to send female family members to carry out this 'duty'. The unhappiness has been building up among the citizens who work during the day, but now can't afford time to rest at night either. Tiredness and unhappiness have fused into anger when they are also being threatened with imprisonment, should there be any anti-government protest evidence in spite of their guard duty. This has provoked them into starting the campaign.

Earlier, Thousands of citizens of Taunggote also signed a petition for the release of U Khin Hla, Secretary, NLD Party , Rakhine and Ko Min Aung, Treasurer, to become the first town in Burma to commence a petition campaign in 2008.

Any alleged victim of forced labour has full freedom to submit complaints to the ILO Liaison Officer in Rangoon.

at Tel: +951-227837, 227057 Fax: +951-224327 or E-mail: registry.ilomm@undp.org

ILO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RO-Bangkok)
P.O. Box 2-349,
Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Tel: +662.288.2482
Fax: +662.288.3062
E-mail: apwebeditor@ilo.org

Public Movement Organising Committee's Open Letter

4 January 2008 (the Independence Day)

To His Excellency Senior General Than Shwe and Leaders of SPDC

This letter is written with the intention wholly and entirely in respect and appreciation of the freedom and dignity of every individual and the desire for the present and long-term well-being of the national economy and the love and respect of the nation.

It has been 60 years since our country gained Independence after many decades as a colony. However, far from enjoying the benefit of freedom and independence, people of this proud nation are suffering from civil wars and many other continuous problems such as lack of human rights and freedom, equality and justice under the law. Most of the people and their families are unable to avoid the curse of poverty at some point in their daily lives and all the difficulties and troubles which follow from that.

Moreover, the country and its citizens are deeply ashamed of the headaches and problems which our nation is causing in both the regional and international context.

Our ethnically united nation is facing and struggling to deal with political, humanitarian and economics issues. To avoid or find solutions to these problems and to recontruct a peaceful, humble and developed nation and society, it is most important to first achieve the united solidarity of the nation.

To negotiate meaningful discussion concerning our national affairs, there is no other way except for the discussion between SPDC leaders, democracy groups led by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, and all other ethnic leaders in a manner that is free, open, friendly, affectionate and equal to jointly find solutions to the country's problems.

Being a day early or late to start the meaningful discussions will have a huge impact on the benefits to the country. Therefore, we are determined to express the desire to constructively unite and join hands for the convening of immediate and genuinely meaningfull discussions.

It is vitally important for the fate of our nation that you, and I, and all of us, learn from the wounds of the past , draw the curtains for the final time, without any anger, hatred or revenge, look forward to the future in the eyes of tolerance love and affection.

Other than that, if we carry on as we are, riding on the parallel hard-line tracks , with our backs to each other, there will be no medicine to cure our crippling humanitarian and economic national ills. There is also no doubt that as a consequence of that, the public which is desperate and drowning in the sea of troubles and sufferings will lead to public revolution and create scenes of blood and tears.

Therefore, we hereby seriously and respectfully request and urge the leaders of SPDC to act for obvious and visible change towards improvement, meaning the unconditional release of every political prisoners from today 4 January (the Independence Day) while 12 February (the Union Day) being the final date for the release and the immediate start of genuine meaningful discussion, without delay.

Public Movement Organising Committee

1 All Burma Monks Alliance (ABMA)

2 United Groups of Ethnic Youths

3 All Burma Federation of Students Union

4 8888 Generation Students

5 Peace loving Muslim Organization

6 Generation Wave (New Blood Youth Organization)

7 Lawyers Union

8 Poets Union

9 New Generation Journalists Union

10 Public Activities Development Committee (Mandalay)

11 Public Activities Development Committee (Rangoon)

12 Writers and Artists Group

(To read the original letter published in DVB site please click here)

Deteriorating Health of Imprisoned Shan Leaders

6 January 2008
Original reporty by Maung Too, DVB

The family of Sai Hla Aung, Shan Leader, who is serving the long term imprisonment in Kyauk Hpu prison, Rakhine, has applied his transfer to Rangoon , in order to get the hospital treatment for him, it is reported.

Sai Hla Aung, who is diabetic, is said to have been very weak and tired according to Sai Laik, spokeperson, Shan National League for Democracy Party.

"The family has applied for his transfer to Rangoon (Insein) prison and then to be permitted to have treatment in Rangoon General Hospital. The application has been sent to the Minister of Home Affairs, Director General of Prison Department and the prison authorities about 15 days ago but so far they haven't received any reply or an acknowedgement as yet," he added.

Sai Hla Aung and 7 other Shan Leaders were arrested in early 2003 and subsequently charged with offences for 'asking for rights for Shan nationals' and rebelling against the national conference, and were imprisoned from 70 to 100 years. Sai Hla Aung is serving his 79 years.

"Kun Tun Oo, chairman, Shan National League for the Democracy Party , who has been imprisoned in Puta O, Kachin State, also has deteriorating health," continued Sai Laik. "The temperature is reaching -2'C in Puta O. He is also suffering from gall bladder problems."

It is reported that Sai Nyi Moe, who is suffering from haemorrhoids in Pakkoku prison has still not been given permission for treatment.

Shan National League for Democracy Party won the second biggest vote in the 1990 General Election, held by military government. The spokeperson continued to urge the government to release all political prisoners including Shans and to start meaningful political discussion.

"As the military rulers of the country, the government must engage in meaningful discussions concerning political reform which the public has been desperately seeking. Start being constructive, if you really love the country and its people, that is,' said U Sai Laik.

"These demands are made not because we want to hold political power for ourselves but we have true desire for the population of the entire nation to contribute to, and share in the well-being of the national economy. "

The 8 Shan Leaders, who are serving long-term prison sentences are;

Kun Tun Oo, Chairaman, Shan National League for Democracy Party, in Puta O prison
Sai Nyunt Lwin, General Secretary, Shan NLD Party, in Kalay prison
General Say Htin in Kum Tee prison
Sai Hla Aung in Kuauk Hpu prison
Sai Tun Nyo in Boothee Taung prison
Sai Myo Win Tun in Myin Chan prison and
Sai Nyi Moe in Pakkoku prison.

Sai Myint Than in Than Dwe' prison however, succombed to combined effects of neglect and hard conditions, passed away in 2006.

Ever since these Shan Leaders have been arrested in 2003, international organisations and the United Nations have been demanding their release.

NLD Urges SPDC To Start Genuine Discussions

January 4, 2008
Original report by Maung Too, DVB

On the 60th Anniversary of Burma's Independence Day, the National League for Democracy (NLD) Party has urged the SPDC military government to release Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and U Tin Oo and to start genuine discussions on the political future of the nation immediately.

The announcement was released at the Independence Day celebration, held at the headquarters of NLD Party, Shwe Gon Dine, Rangoon, at noon today. U Aung Shwe, chairman of the NLD Party gave a speech at the ceremony while U Hla Pe' read the announcement.

The event was attended by about 700 people, including the country's high-profile politicians, foreign diplomats and students. A booklet, the "Biography of General Aung San, The Architech of The Independence" and the NLD Youth's Newsletters, were distributed.

The ceremony ended at 3:00 pm.

Petition Starts In Rakhine

5 January 2008
Original report by Aye Nai, DVB

Thousands of people signed the petition in Rakhine State, Western Burma, the first of the mass movements for 2008.

About 7000 people signed in the petition for the release of U Khin Hla, secretary, NLD Party , Rakhine and Ko Min Aung, treasurer, which is to be sent to authorities, it is reported.

Both gentlemen were arrested and imprisoned for reporting the prevalence of forced labour and forced recruitment of child soldiers. This is in direct contravention of the Supplementary Understanding reached on 26 February 2007 between the ILO (International Labour Organisation) and the junta.

Ko Moe Naing Soe, an NLD Party promotional team member, said, ' Signatures from all over the state have been collected and we have had about 7000, altogether. The petition will be sent off to senior general Than Shwe, in a few days' time.'

U Khin Hla is serving 4 years sentence and Ko Min Aung 2 years in Than Dwe' prison.

There have been some other petitions in Rangoon and other areas.

To read the agreement of the 26 February 2007 ,a Supplementary Understanding between the ILO and Myanmar government, please click here.

The Junta Carries Out New Year Arrests

5 January 2008
Original report by Maung Too, DVB

More than 10 pro-democracy activists, including a monk, have been arrested by the military junta since New Years Day, in Rangoon alone, it is reported.

NLD (Youth) members Miss Htet Htet Aung from South Dagon, Ko Kyaw Kyaw and Ko Kyaw Zin Win from Dawbone were all arrested yesterday according to U Nyan Win, member, information team, National League for Democracy Party.

On 3rd January, a monk and 4 poeple were arrested at 'Sate Taing Kya' Teashop in Lewis Road. On separate occasion, Ko Ko Maung and Ko Min Han were also arrested. Both men were former political prisoners of 8888 generation, according to the leader Ko Soe Tun.

The house, where Kyaw Ko Ko, leader, ABSFU ( All Burmese Federation of Student Unions Committee was staying was surrounded and searched but he escaped. Details of the arrests were not known.

Some NLD members of Ye' Nan Chaung, who were arrested and detained during the Independence Day celebration period have been all released.

The military junta has been carrying out these arrests despite the requests and appeals from International organisations including the United Nations.

Cool Guys From Taunggote

4 January 2008
Original report : Naw Say Paw, DVB

Ko Se Thu and Ko Moe Naing Soe, both from Taunggote managed to keep their cool while being questioned about their distribution of leaflets.

The two young gentlemen were taken to the local authority office while they were distributing leaflets, containing information of the government's agreement with the ILO (International Labour Organisation) in February 2006 , concerning the abolition of Forced Labour.

As the young men came out of the Taunggote central market, after distributing the leaflets, Hla Tun a police official and his team, who were waiting outside, took them to SPDC office in town for questioning.

The constable asked,' What kind of leaflets are they, Ko Se Thu ? '.

Ko Se Thu replied,' 'Why don't you read it yourself, if you want to know', as he pushed the leaflet to the officer, before going out to buy some bettle nuts.

When he came out of the betel nut shop he was asked,'Ko Se Thu, SPDC needs you to attend at the SPDC office for some discussions', to which Ko Se Thu replied, 'I am quite busy. It's not the most convenient time for me so I'll refuse this opportunity', and walked on.

However, by the gate of the central market, they once again came face to face with the awaiting police officials, including Ko Hla Htwe, who took them to the town's SPDC office, where they were questioned separately.

Ko Se Thu said, 'They asked me why I was distributing the leaflets ', and I replied,' I don't want to be forced to do something that I don't agree with, and also I don't want anyone to be in that position. Some people are ignorant of their rights (to refuse forced labour), so that's why I was making sure that they know.' They were dismissed after about an hour of questioning.

He insisted that the agreement that the government signed with the ILO in February 2006 is a legal document so there is no need for questions about the distribution of the leaflets.

In the past, U Aye Myint, a lawyer from Pago and Miss Su Su Nwe from Kor Hmu, Rangoon had been arrested and jailed for reporting information to ILO.

To read the agreement on 26 February 2007 of a Supplementary Understanding between the ILO and Burma (Myanmar) please click here.

Eight More Arrested

4 January 2008
Original report : DVB

Miss Htet Htet Aung from South Dagon and Ko Kyaw Kyaw Linn from Dawbone, both members of the National League for Democracy (Youth) Party were arrested this morning, it is reported. They were taken away for questioning and the families are still waiting for their return.

Similarly, Ko Ko Maung from Mingala Don and Ko Min Han from North Okkalapa were arrested on 2nd January.

Three other people and a monk were also arrested on 3nd January, it is reported.

Burma : No Freedom On Independence Day Or Any Other Day

4 January 2008

Today, out of respect for the thousands of unlawfully arrested political prisoners, peaceful demonstrations were held at the National League for Democracy (NLD) Party, HQ, Rangoon. Marching to celebrate Burma's Independence Day , people were wearing blue prisoners' outfits. To see the photos and also to read the latest news on the horrific conditions of political prisoners in Insein prison, please visit these sites :

http://drlunswe.blogspot.com/2008/01/blog-post_892.html
http://baydah.blogspot.com/
http://ko-htike.blogspot.com/

'Authorities' Try To Stop Independence Day Celebrations

3 January 2008
Original report by Naw Say Paw and Maung Too, DVB

The chairman of National League for Democracy Party, Ye' Nan Chaung and one of his colleagues were advised not to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of Independence Day by the chief police official of Magwe', it is reported.

The NLD party of Ye' Nan Chaung had been organising programmes for the celebration, including the offering of meals to 5 monks. Although applications and notices were sent off since 27 December, the party members were only told yesterday, not to hold the celebration and not to get together to form a crowd.

U Khin Win, the chair of Ye' Nan Chaung NLD and U Than Aung , party promotional member, who yesterday were taken away for questioning , are still being detained. In the absence of their leaders, the rest of the members were determined to carry on with the planned celebration.

'It doesn't look like they (the leaders) will be released soon. We have left warm clothes and blankets for them. Nevertheless, the rest of us will continue with our plans', said one party member.

In another area of Magwe' Division, other NLD members were also planning to celebrate Independence Day. It is reported that the movements and activities of Aung Lan NLD Party, were watched closely by groups of USDA and Swan Arr Shin members, who were camping outside the Party's communication office.

NLD party members across Mandalay Division including Mandalay city, Maik Te La District and Thar Si were all preparing and organising to celebrate Independence Day, it is reported.

No effort to interfere with the preparations for the celebrations at the Headquarters of National League for Democracy, Rangoon were reported. U Nyan Win of the Party's Central Information Department commented that it was an insult to the meaning of 'independence' if the freedom to celebrate the country's Independence Day was not accepted by 'authorities'.

'Independence Day is a very special and precious day for everyone in the country. Prohibiting or restricting celebrations for this special day would mean that we are not grateful to our Martyrs who fought for our freedom at that time for us,' he said.

Diamonds Wedding Video 'Criminals' Release Hopes

2 January 2008
Original report by Naw Say Paw, DVB

The wife of Ko Tin Htay, who was serving a 2 year jail term, because he dared to watch video recording of the wedding of senior general Than Shwe's daughter, known in Burma as
'Diamonds Decorated Wedding' (there are 24 of them), is hoping that her husband could be in the list of pardoned release of prisoners on 4 January, the Independence Day.

'A lot of people are now travelling all over the country, to wait at the gates of prisons where their loved ones are held, in the hope that they might be released. My husband committed no crime. Two years jail for just watching the video is unbelievable. Our family has lost so much, just for that, so I am hoping that he will be released as soon as possible', said Ma Lwin Lwin Mar, Ko Tin Htay's wife.

Ko Tin Htay was charged under section 505b on 'incitement to commit offences against the public tranquility'.
Ko Than Tun, who was also involved with Ko Tin Htay, was also charged and is serving a 4 1/2 year prison sentence.

It is reported that hopes and expections are high amongst families and relations of detainees, who have committed no crime and have been imprisoned unreasonably.

Similar hopes are with Ma Pyone Pyone Aye, whose husband political prisoner Ko Thet Oo, is serving 26 years imprisonment. All others in the same case have now been released.

Last year, on Independence Day's 59th anniversary, when the government pardoned nearly 3000 prisoners, over 20 political prisoners were among them. This year, as well as the families of long-term serving political prisoners, the families of detainees being arrested in relation to August and September protests, are also hoping for their loved ones' release.

U Tate Naing, the secretary of AAPP Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (Burma) , based on the border, has noted that the present government is regarded as more repressive than the previous Khin Nyunt government, so it would be better not to raise expectations too much.

'In previous years, only a small percentage of political prisoners were released, compared with the numbers of other convicts. Those political prisoners who were released were near the end of their terms', U Tate Naing added. He also explained that when over 9000 prisoners were released in 2004, with the admission that they were arrested wrongly by Khin Nyunt led Military Intelligence, there were only 80 political prisoners among them.

'We are not pinning hopes on the release of a lot of political prisoners'.

Who Is U Win Tin?

U Win Tin, one of political mentors of Nobel Peace Prize winner Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, continues to serve his 20 years prison sentence. He is regularly offered freedom in exchange for a signed promise to give up all political activities. But Saya (Teacher) as his friends call him, has always refuse to cut such a deal and break his ties with National League for Democracy, which was cheated out of its landslide victory at the 1990 general elections.

He was convicted of 'subversion' and 'anti-government propaganda'. In 1996, he was held for 5 months in a dog-kennel at Rangoon's Insein prison. He has since had two heart attacks and lost most of his teeth. Now 75,he has been shuttling back and forth between his cell and the spartan prisoners' wing of Rangoon hospital for the past few years. To view the original source and to sign the petition for the release of Saya U Win Tin, please click here.

Six More NLD Members Arrested

3 January 2008
Original report by Naw Say Paw, DVB

Member of Parliament and 5 of his colleagues, all of them, members of National League for Democracy Party were arrested and detained last night, it is reported.

Dr Aung Moe Nyo, MP, Pwint Hpu, Magwe, Ko Htay Myint, U Than Tun, U Ko Oo and a teacher U Sein Win (all from Nyaung Pin Sat Village) and Ko Nay Myo Kyaw from Saku were preparing to travel to attend the 60th Anniversary of Burma's Independence Day celebration at the home of U Khin Win, Chairman, NLD Party, Ye' Nan Chaung, when they were arrested.

The members were rounded up at midnight in Nyaung Pin Sat by a 20 strong police contingent led by the area official and are being held in Pwint Hpu police station. When he learnt about the arrest in the morning, the brother of Dr Aung Moe Nyo went to the police station where the NLD members have been detained, where he was told that the arrests were made in order to stop the group attending the Independence Day ceremony.

'I was told that there were concerns about 4th January and also about the gathering of the crowds. It was an order from the 'superiors'. They (the police) were acting, according to the order, to temporarily detain the NLD members', said the brother.

There were also reports that U Kin Win, the Chairman, Ye'Nan Chaung NLD Party and a few others who were organising the Independence Day's 60th anniversary celebration, were taken away by authorities for questioning.

News : Ladies In Prison

3 January 2008
Original report by Maung Too, DVB

Ma Su Su Nwe, who was arrested while sticking posters in front of Mya Yeit Nyo Hotel, Rangoon and Ma Lay Lay Mon, the 8888 generation student were both put in solitary confinement in Insein prison where they have been detained, it is learnt.

Both ladies, who are suffering from heart disease, are in poor health according to internal information. Sister of Ma Su Su Nwe said, 'We have learnt that the girls have been in isolation, and are given only one meal a day. None of the parcels (personal packages sent to prisoners by family) have been received.'

Lay Lay Mon was due to appear before court but she was not taken out from her isolation cell. ( Ko Bo Bo Win Hlaing, who was arrested together with Ma Su Su Nwe on 14 Novermber, has also been denied a family visit.)

Ma Khin Sanda Win, a student from Daw Pone, who was arrested on 12 October is also in bad health. She has been placed in the same cell with women, who have been charged with offences related to prostitution.

'Ma Khin Sanda Win's situation is not very good. She suffers from headaches probably as a result of a head indury sustained in a car accident. She has had an X-ray test only.' said an anonymous informant.

Ma Mee Mee, Ma Nobel Aye, Ma Sanda Min aka Shwii all of who are 8888 generation students,
Daw Khin Aye and Daw Myint Thein, both NLD members and
Daw Khin Mar Cho of Burmese Housewives Union are all still remanded in custody.

Out of about 1800 political prisoners, who have been detained in prisons throughout the country, there are over 100 ladies, according to AAPP records.

U Gambira's Photo

To view a photo of Ashin U Gambira, who acted out of compassion and humility and a great love for his fellow man, in a manner true to the fundamental calling of the Buddhist Sangha, please visit this blog http://ashinmettacara-eng.blogspot.com.

Four NLD Members Being Remanded Repeatedly

3 January 2008
Original report by Aye Nai, DVB

The 4 members of National League for Democracy Party, Magwe' State, who are being detained in Thayet prison, appeared before court today. However, their cases were adjourned and they were remanded in custody again, for the 6th time, according to friends of families.

U Myint Oo - the secretary, Magwe' NLD,
U Thar Cho - member, Ye Nan Chaung NLD,
U Htay Win - a private tutor, Nat Mauk, and
Ko Htun Htun Nyein - member, NLD Youth, Chauk were all arrested during the September protests and were accused of committing several 'serious' offences such as 'defaming the government', 'frightening the public' and 'following the parading mass'.

Yesterday, they appeared before court, which was being held in a recreation room in Thayet prison but the case was adjourned due to the non-appearance of the prosecution witnesses, it is learnt.

Hle' Dan 5's Charges Have Been Changed

2nd January 2008
Original report by Aye Nai, DVB

Charges against protesters Ko Than Zaw Myint, Ko San Win, Ko Thant Zin Myo , Ko Kyaw Soe Win, and one unnamed protester, known as Hle' Dan 5 had been changed, on the day they were due to appear before court, it is reported.

They were all arrested by Union Solidarity and Development Association and Swan Arr Shin members, who used extreme violence on 28 August at Hle' Dan junction, Kamar Yut, Rangoon. Their 'crime' was to join a protest against the increase in fuel prices, and were subsequently charged under sections 505 (b) and 147 of the penal code.

Section 505 (b) outlaws incitement to offences against the public tranquility and carries a maximum two-year prison sentence, while section 147 covers rioting and also mandates up to two years imprisonment.

However, on 31 December, the day the five were due to appear before court, they were visited by a judge in their prison cells, and told that the charges against them have now been changed. Instead of section 147, they are now charged under section 143: for acting and participating in an illegal organisation. The trial will be on 14 January.

Ko Than Zaw Myint, who was being punched and beaten during the arrest, has sustained an eye injury. His father, U Tin Yu said he will file charges against USDA and Swan Arr Shin members for unlawfully arresting his son and also sending a letter of complaint about the incident to junta leader senior general Than Shwe.

Maggots Feeding On The Rotten Junta

2 January, 2008
Original source : Ko Htike's blog
Burmese people in Singapore who support cruel Burmese Junta

Since 1962, people in Burma have been divided into pro-military junta group and pro-democracy group or opposition. Until the Golden Colour Revolution in September, it was acceptable that there were some citizens who did not favour either of the political groups while they would just mind their own business and live in harmony with each side.

However, the September Revolution has changed everything. It has been a make or break time. Black or White, Right or Wrong, East or West, Left or Right ? The time has come for everyone who is connected to Burma, to make a clear choice. Which side do you belong to? Pro-Junta or Pro-Democracy?

The world has witnessed the military junta's most shameless insult on over thousand years of the country's religion and culture, the brutal crackdown on the peaceful and much-respected monks. News of arrests, torture and killing of peaceful protesters overwhelmed the international media agencies. Only very young children and people in a coma would have missed these sad and unpleasant reports.

It has since become every citizen's duty and obligation to decide on their loyalties and stand up for which side they belong to, especially the exile Burmese, who enjoy freedom of speech and actions, who live in other successfully developed democratic countries. The question is 'Are you a self-interested selfish pro-junta sycophant, joining with the military criminals and convicts , and become rich by robbing your own country?' OR ' Are you loyal to your own countrymen, the country's great religion and the millions of suffering poor ?'

Every Burmese resident in Singapore, had been notified of the pro-junta's Independence Day celebration in the Mandarin Hotel on 2 January. Exiled pro-democracy and anti-junta bloggers had put out appeals to boycott the event and most people from Burma managed to avoid it. However, the evidence of these photos proves that there are many thick-skinned shameless and selfish people who expose themselves as most disloyal to their own country and their own race and people, and in favour of the mass murderers, military junta, robbers of the country's resources . These disloyal maggots, who are feeding on the putrescent junta are all recorded in these photos. Their dishonourable names will be published soon.

Protesters End Hunger Strike

2 January, 2008
Original News by Aye Nai, DVB

Ko Htin Kyaw, the fuel protest leader and 2 others, who were staging a hunger strike while in custody in Insein prison, demanding the release of all political prisoners including monks, have called off their demonstration, it is reported.

All three; Ko Htin Kyaw, Ko Myo Thant (member of HRDP net work) and Ko Zin Lin Aung ( a university student) have resumed eating solid food again, according to Ma Thi Thi Soe, sister of Ko Myo Thant, who visited him in the prison last Monday.

Ko Htin kyaw staged hunger strike from 30 November until 31 December 2007 while Ko Myo Thant started his on 10 December and ended on 25 December. Ko Zin Lin Aung, who also started his hunger strike on 10 Decemeber was forced to end it earlier than his colleagues due to the deterioration of his health, it is learnt.

Ko Myo Thant, who lost 21 lb in body weight during his hunger strike, told his sister that he is now ready and is courageous enough to face anything under the protection of the laws and legislations. His ultimate hope and expectation is that fair justice will now be done in accordance with full intregrity, legality and rectitude. He faces charges under section 505b on 'incitement to commit offences against the public tranquility', and if found guilty will be given a maximum sentence of two years imprisonment.

All three hunger strikers had asked for the release of all political prisoner but there has been no report of any negotiation or arbitration from the authorities.

It is now over 2 weeks since Ko Htin Kyaw was last seen by member of his family. Their request to see him was refused at the prison today. Instead, they were allowed to leave a package for him.

The telephones in Insein prison are working and being answered, however when asked about the health of the 3 hunger strikers, the respondent stated that the caller had the wrong number, before the line was cut off.

Journalists Telephones Switched Off (But "We" Didn't Do It!)

2 January 2008
Original report : DVB

Journalists, who reported the September's Golden Colour Revolution protests, have had their telephones switched off by the "authorities". Fixed line and mobile phones of some journalists, who work for international media firms such as NHK, GG and Reuters, as well as some employees of foreign embassies, have been switched off by the Ministry of Communications, it is reported.

When the telephone subscribers, who have paid full service fees, made enquiries at Myanmar Communication Cooperative about the censorship, they were told that it has been an order from their superiors (presumably the "authorities?"). Subsequent enquiries were made at Ministry of Communications, Post & Telegraph, Ministry of Information and Ministry of Home Affairs, and all three refused to take responsibility, just saying 'It wasn't us' ("authorities again?").

Former Military Intelligence which has the new name of Military Security Group also denied knowing anything about it, saying, 'This order is not one of our operations.'

When all the possible sources of information have run out, the owners of the telephones, who have paid over
K 1,000,000 for the service are just left empty handed , without explanation of what had happened to their telephone services.

Workers Suffer As Factories Close Down

1 January 2008
Original report by Naw Say Paw, DVB, Thailand

About 1000 employees from New Wave shoe factory, Hlaing Tharyar Industrial Estate, Rangoon are now suffering because the factory is closed. After sacking 200 workers for demonstrating in September as they protested for being denied workers' rights, the owner of the factory closed it down in late October.

According to one employee, the reason for the closure is the unavailability of supplies. It has also been learnt that worker are not getting the proper partial payment during the period of closure.

She said,' We still get a small payment but it is not even half of our normal salary. Our basic salary is about K 35,000which with the overtime can rise to about K50,000 a month. At present we only get K12,000 which is not enough to live on. If we know for sure that the closure is permanent, then we can start looking for a new job, and claim compensation to which we would be entitled. But so far however, we have not been given any further information and are only provided with this small wage each month, which is not enough to support a family.'

Until now, there has been no intervention by the Ministery of Labour or any other workers organisations concerning the legal closure of the factory and the distribution of compensation amongst its employees. When New Wave factory was contacted for further information, an official explained that the closure is nothing to do with the September protests but there is not only a genuine lack of raw material supplies, but also a lack of demand for the products.

When the Ministery of Labour was contacted, there was no official available to respond to the enquiry. It is reported that there are some other factories in Hlaing Thar Yar Industrial Estate, which have also shut down due to the shortage of raw material supplies.

More often than not, pro-government media and newspapers blame the closures of factories on trade and economic sanctions imposed by the USA and the West, even though there are many other alternative suppliers who will do business with the government. More importantly there is no mention of how, as a country's Government, they propose to achieve a solution to these difficulties and assist the impoverished and powerless workers to endure the consequent unemployment.

Statement Issued By The All Burma Monks Alliance

Date 01-01-08
1369 Na Daw La Sote 8th , Tuesday

We, the monks, members of the Buddhist Order, being mindful of sympathy and pity for the public and the donors, who were struggling to survive the deep trouble of poverty, decided to overturn the offering bowls, and paraded and marched peacefully. This was done in order to let the ruling government know about the public's suffering and basic struggle to survive.

However, the government, instead of taking responsiblility and resolving the issues and problems of the people and the country, hired criminals and convicts to conduct the brutal crackdown on the peaceful protesters including the monks, as the world has witnessed. Moreover, the government has;

1) tried to separate the monks from the people, either with bribery or threat

2) made accusations that the monks who staged the protests were decoys,

3) been beating, arresting and chasing away monks during the invasion of the monastaries while wearing military boots and also closing down the monastaries,

4) forced derobing, beating, questioning, torturing and incarceration of the monks

5) restricted or prevented the movment and travel of monks

6)been forbidding abbots from giving sermons at public religious ceremonies and,

7)been forcing people to make donations, in order to defeat the monks' boycott.


The government must stop committing the above crimes and instead;

a) take the responsibility for their economic faliures, the poverty of the country and the public's suffering in the current humanitarian crisis created by them,

b)immediately release without condition all the detained monks, including U Gambira, students and youths, ethnic leaders, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and all other political prisoners

c) start to solve the country's problems, issues and crises through discussion, negotiation and meetings, in a civilised way.

We demand the government known as the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC), take immediate action to react to all the issues listed above.

To civilians and donors we would appeal to you not to be disappointed or give up too easily from this long-term struggle. Control your anger and hatred, avoid any violent behaviour and try to love each other. This way, we will be able to create and build our own future and fate peacefully and in solidarity.

To the monks we urge you to continue with our unfinished boycott and increase your activity while bearing in mind the development of the country and religion. Be united, be active and be vigilant.

For the benefit of both secular and sacred worlds we issued this announcement.

The All Burma Monks Alliance

'Do It Yourself' Without Violence, ABMA Urges People Of Burma

1 January 2008
Original report by Aye Nai, DVB

'We must be responsible for our own fate, while avoiding all violence', the All Burma Monks Alliance (ABMA) urged the people of Burma. In their announcement, issued today, the monks are also urged to continue with the boycott and also to be active and vigilant.

U Okkatta, the spokesperson of the Alliance, also beseeched everyone to join in the activities led by the ABMA in order to end the country's humanitarian sufferings.

'Please do not feel distressed. You must control your anger which can lead the tendency towards violence but let us concentrate on building our own future, in solidarity. With our joint forces of the public and monks together, we can resolve all our problems and troubles. We vow to continue with the boycott until every monk (and political prisoner) is released. Please try not to hate anyone and believe in love and affection, which is the only true winner.'

33 Days Of Hunger Strike And Still No Family Visit

1 January, 2008
Original report by Maung Htoo, DVB

It is now 33 days since Ko Htin Kyaw started the hunger strike protest in Insein prison and despite the application from his family to be allowed to see him, the authorities are still refusing to act in any form of communication.

The leader of the commodity price protests, Ko Htin Kyaw was allowed to receive food and medicines sent by the family but information on his health cannot be obtained from the authorities, according to a colleague.

On 27 December, the family and colleagues of Ko Htin Kyaw sent applications to gain permission to see him, to several State authorities, including Senior General Than Shwe, as concerns for his health status reached a new height.

He was arrested on 25 August, while staging protests for instigating high prices, including fuel. On 30 November, during his detention in Insein prison, he began staging his hunger strike, asking for the release of all the policital prisoners.

Burma : Human Rights Information

1 Jaunary 2008
Original report : DVB

Information on human rights violations in Burma can now be reported to the United Nations Human Rights Commission, in a statement issued by 8888 generation students.

Every record of a photograph, medical record, , court order, etc, concerning the human rights violation committed by any organisation including the SPDC government can now be emailed to hrhittaing@gmail.com and there is an appeal to all friends to distribute this email address and forms to everyone.

All the victims and witnesses can report to this adress, which will accept every type of information with the highest security measure, for the safety of the informant, and which will be kept strictly confidential. The 8888 Generation Student Untion will then transmit all the reports to UNHRC.

There is also a stark warning that the formation of 'Human Rights Commission' by the military government has intention to gain political advantage rather than the genuine concern for the country's human rights conditions.

'We have strong evidence of the government's Human Rights Commission doing tricks to violate the human rights.'

'We will achieve our goal of gaining genuine human rights, if we all work in solidarity'

'TO CONTACT HITTAING FOR YOUR RIGHTS' (hrhittaing@gmail.com)

COMPLAINT FORM FOR HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES

(For your security, this form will be confidential and will be submitted in secrecy)

NAME (Optional) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _

Father's Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Date Of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

NRC Number _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _

Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _

OCCUPATION _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _

MARRIED / SINGLE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

NUMBER OF CHILDREN _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

ARE YOU THE VICTIM ? _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

OR DID YOU WITNESS THE ABUSE ? _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

DO YOU HAVE MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE CASE ? _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
(PHOTO, MEDICAL RECORDS, COURT ORDER AND OTHER INFORMATION)


HOW MANY VICTIMS ARE THERE? _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

CAN WE CONTACT YOU FOR MORE INFORMATION? _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

BRIEF HISTORY OF THE CASE (TIME, PLACE, PERPETRATORS (MILITARY POLICE, OTHERS AND MILITARY OR POLICE UNITS) , WHAT HAPPENED ? _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _

Burma: Person Of the Year 2007 Is U Gambira

Tuesday, 1 January 2008, 9:57 am
Press Release: Terry Evans
Burma: Person of the Year 2007 is U Gambira the Imprisoned Monk Leader

The influential Burmese website THE BURMA DIGEST yesterday announced the results of it's poll for Person of the Year 2007 in Burma. U Gambira, who led Burma's Saffron Revolution in 2007 got highest number of votes; and accordingly was named as "The Person of the Year 2007 in Burma".

U Gambira, the 29-year old leader of the All-Burma Monks' Alliance that spearheaded nationwide protests in Burma in September, became a fugitive following the deadly Sept. 26-27 crackdown on protesters in Burma. He made important announcements to the world outside Burma about the alliance's aims and in a climate of fear and arrests of pro-democracy activists, became one of the new leaders of Burma's freedom movement.

U Gambira led the life of a monk until summer 2007, dedicating his life to religious study and working compassionately for the benefit of all people. Following the SPDC/USDA/SAS attacks on monks in Pakkoku, U Gambira became involved with what we now call the 'Saffron Revolution'. His actions and those of his fellow monks brought the world's attention to the protests in Burma, and gave enormous impetus to the pro-democracy movement inside Burma and with the activist movements around the world. The SPDC saw him and the rest of the protest organisers (and participatants) as their enemy; He was targeted by the SPDC and went into hiding, his family taken hostage until he gave himself up.

U Gambira now languishes in a grim prison cell, and like other protesters beaten and tortured by sadistic SPDC minions. He is reported to be incarcerated at Insein prison and it seems likely that he will be charged with treason and given what amounts to a life sentence behind bars. It was these risks that U Gambira took on himself just a few months ago; he knew the risk, but acted on his conscience and his belief - a belief that non-violent protest and the power of prayer against guns and tanks will eventually win the freedom that the people of Burma so desperately need.

U Gambira acted not for personal gain, or to better himself, or out of any wish for political power; he acted out of compassion and humility and a great love for his fellow man, in a manner true to the fundamental calling of the Buddhist Sangha.

The Burma Digest poll results can be viewed @ www.burmadigest.info

ENDS

Burma : Three Months Of Quiet Repression & Arrests

Tuesday, 1 January 2008, 10:55 pm
Press Release: Reporters Sans Frontieres

Burma: Three months of quiet repression, arrests, censorship and propaganda

The military government has constantly hounded Burma's journalists during the three months that have gone by since 27 September 2007, the day that Japanese video reporter Kenji Nagai was murdered by a soldier in Rangoon, report RSF and the Burma Media Association.

The police and army continue to hunt for journalists and activists who photographed and filmed the crackdown on the pro-democracy demonstrations. At least nine have had to flee to Thailand. The privately-owned media have resumed publishing but the Censorship Board has stepped up its control.

"The impression that things are back to normal is false," the two organisations said. "The security services are still looking for the underground journalists who let the world know about the violence against monks and pro-democracy activists. We call for an end to the intimidation of the press and for the release of the six journalists currently held. The international community must find a way to get UN special rapporteur Sergio Pinheiro's recommendations implemented."

The UN Human Rights Council adopted a resolution on Burma on 14 December that calls on the government to guarantee the freedom of the independent media. An RSF representative addressed the council, calling for the release of Burma's journalists and an end to the censorship.

Ko Aung Gyi, the former editor of the sports magazine "90 Minutes", is one of the latest journalists to be detained. It is not known why he was arrested in Rangoon. Two other former journalists, Ko Win Maw and Ko Aung Aung, have also been arrested without being charged. At least 15 other journalists have been arrested since September and then released. The six currently in prison include Win Tin, a prominent journalist held since July 1989.

People who have been arrested and then released say the police ask everyone for the names of the "cameramen," meaning the journalists who work clandestinely for foreign news media or Democratic Voice of Burma, an exile radio and TV station based in Oslo. Many photographers and cameramen who contributed to exile media have stopped working altogether for fear of being identified and some have even thrown away their equipment.

The Union Solidarity anda Development Association (USDA), a pro-government militia, continues to be hostile towards journalists. "The Myanmar Nation" photographer Aung Khine Nyunt was beaten by thugs believed to be USDA members while taking photos of a march on 21 October. In all, about 10 journalists were beaten or roughed up during the demonstrations.

At least nine Burmese journalists have fled the country because of the repression, and have sought refuge in Thailand. Most of them left the capital during the first wave of arrests at the end of September.

The Censorship Board has had no qualms about asserting itself. The weekly "News Watch" was banned for a week in mid-November after proposing the publication of photos that displeased the military. The military censors have even forced editors to resign. In early December, the authorities punished the magazine "Action" for failing to withdraw articles censored by the government. A censorship official publicly criticised "Action" for not being "constructive."

The newspaper "Middle Line" also got into trouble. It was suspended after its editor, Oo Swe, complained that some media were getting favourable treatment from the censors, according to the exile magazine and website "Irrawaddy".

To prevent Burmese from seeing reports and pictures of the crackdown in September, the military government has controlled the sale of foreign publications very strictly since mid-October. The magazines "Time" and "Newsweek" and Thai newspapers have not been seen in newsstands for the past few weeks. The Internet has been restored but surveillance has been stepped up in Internet cafés. For fear of reprisals, many Internet café owners have removed the programmes from their computers that allowed users to circumvent the government's filters.

Around 10 journalists suspected of sympathizing with the pro-democracy protests have been banned from being published or interviewed. They include sports reporter Zaw Thet Htwe, cartoonist Au Pi Kyee and writer Pe Myint. The censorship is not limited to political topics. The military government, for example, banned coverage of a new outbreak of bird flu on 20 October, although the outbreak was announced by the government agency responsible for dealing with it.

Anyone who criticises the government can be the target of repression. This is why the authorities banned a video of a show by the comic troupe "Say Young Sone." According to Democratic Voice of Burma, which decided to televise it, the DVD is selling very well on the streets of Rangoon. Similarly, a spokesman for the Zantila Rama monastery was sentenced to two years in prison in December for complaining that military personnel stole money during a search. Democratic Voice of Burma said he was found guilty of defamation. A Burmese rapper was arrested in November for paying tribute to the monks at a concert. And "Irrawaddy" reported in early November that Tin Yu, a resident of a Rangoon suburb, was arrested for "talking to foreign media."

The government media continue to pump out their propaganda, putting all of the activities of the military government's leaders on the front page. The government's TV stations have on several occasions vilified the reporting of the foreign media, such as the BBC, RFA and VOA, accusing them of trying to "destabilise" Burma. The government media have been ordered to praise the return to normality and the country's economic progress. At the end of November, the USDA militia announced the launch of a new daily newspaper to reinforce the public's support for the regime.

Finally, many Rangoon-based journalists have criticised Myat Khaine, the editor of the weekly "Snap Shot", for voluntarily giving the information ministry photos of protesters.

Français: Rapport Capsule: Trois mois de répression silencieuse: censure, propagande et détentions

ENDS