Aung San Suu Kyi’s Role in Burma’s Politics in the Future

Aung San Suu Kyi’s Role in Burma’s Politics in the Future Author: Burmese Student Force The importance of Aung San Suu Kyi’s position in the future of Burma’s political transition cannot be ignored.. Her past leadership roles, proven administrative skills and her history of sacrifice for the people demand respect and attention. The reasons why she is an important person and should be involved in politics in the future need to be discussed. Many in Burma trust her because of her proven power to mobilize and lead people. In the 1990 election, the National League for Democracy (NLD), led by Aung San Suu Kyi, won a landslide victory thanks to her organizing skills and the support of the people. Her party beat the Burma Socialist Programme Party in the 1990 general elections. Im 2002, she was released from house arrest and traveled around the country organizing and mobilizing people. While touring the country, she garnered vast support despite the fact she had been under house arrest for over a decade. Clearly, people support her and want to bring about changes. The State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) worried that her political activity would threaten their grip on power. Therefore, on 30 May 2003, she was attacked by the pro-military regime called the United Solidarity and Development Association (USDA) and hundreds of her supporters were killed. She was again placed under house arrest. Burma has eight main ethnic groups. Since gaining independence from the British in 1948, the majority of Burmese have been subjugated in politics and there has been no power sharing to ethnic minorities. As various ethnic groups demanded political rights and equality, a long civil war erupted spanning five decades. In order to solve this deep seated conflict, crucial ethnic issues are must be addressed. The only political system that can guarantee rights and equality for all ethnic groups in Burma is a genuine federal democracy. Aung San Suu Kyi is a prominent leader who has the support of both ethnic groups and democratic leaders; all believe that a national reconciliation within Burma is possible under her leadership. Without her, the process of national reconciliation would likely be impossible. Her father, General Aung San was hero of independence, and had the support of all ethnic groups; this considerable history has a measurable impact on the people’s support for Aung San Suu Kyi. Her support from the international community needs also to be considered. Governments, non-governmental entities and other human rights organizations are all aware of the brutal military regime and therefore recognize her as a symbol of the non-violent struggle for democracy. The SPDC extended her period of house arrest on 25 May. Many reputable individuals from powerful countries, including fifty nine former presidents and prime ministers, signed a petition in support of her release. Ban Ki-moon also urged the SPDC to release Aung San Suu Kyi. Opposition groups in Burma are now holding prayer campaigns in hopes of freeing Aung San Suu Kyi and other political prisoners even in spite of restrictions from the SPDC and the inherent hardships of conducting any sort of political activities in Burma. The international community and Burmese people alike urge for the release of Aung San Suu Kyi. The all believe strongly in her important role in politics. If they did not, no one would call for her freedom. The international community and Burmese people want her to be free because they recognize her values and trust her ability to take on a central role in politics in Burma. Aung San Suu Kyi’s part in Burma’s politics is not only important now, but also in the future. Her place in the future of Burma is crucial, and must not be ignored. Burmese Student Force Galleries Burma 2000 "Rose for Aung San Suu Kyi and Burma" Public Event (19/6/2006) Burmese Refugees in Thailand (2006)← back