Kawthoolei state flag flying over Kser Nay Lay, highest Peak commanding whole Metawaw Areas.

President Gen. Bo Mya (front) with DAB Central Committee Members. KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 2 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN No. 18

EDITORIAL STEP UP THE STRUGGLE WITH UNITY Due to the general strike of millions led 1. the conjunction of armed resistance by students in September, the BSPP (NUP) and mass movement, government became powerless to maintain 2. the coalition of national liberation law and order. With the hope of reversing movement and the movement for democracy the situation and re-establishing their react­ and ionary rule, however, the BSPP (NUP) lead­ 3. the understanding by foreign powers ers led by U Ne Win himself, secretly formed of the true situation and importance of armed 'Anti-Demonstration Committee' and spent liberation movements of the oppressed peo­ much effort in carrying-out, step by step and ple and nationalities. systematically, their wicked plan. The successive governments prior to Firstly, the BSPP (NUP) hardcore Saw Maung military regime also were in fear thugs inflitrated the demonstrations sowing of these three developments. Accordingly dissension andd engaging in wanton violence they made their utmost effort, employing so as to paint the dis-ciplined and orderly various wicked and brutal means to suppress movement for democracy as an activity of them. Similarly, in the two months period unruly mob without any political objective. since it came to power, Saw Maung military Secondly, Ne win and Sein Lwin ordered government has directed its energy mainly Saw Maung to take over power on Septem­ towards the prevention of these three things ber 18 and impose martial law. Saw Maung from occuring. troops attacked strike bases in ruthless sup­ Because of the coming over of thousands pression of demonstrators, spilling the blood of students and people from all walks of life of thounsands of the innocents. to the reevolutionary areas to take up arms, Thirdly, Saw Maung military govern­ the wicked plan of Saw Maung military gov­ ment issued order banning the participation ernment to create discord between the revolu­ of civil servants in demonstrations and politi­ tionary students and the armed revolutionary cal activities. Then, starting from the last forces, through its wily unscrupulous slanders, week of September up to the present, Saw has been wrecked to a certain extent. How­ Maung troops have combed every area in ever, it is vital for the revolutionary students, towns and cities, arresting, torturing and kill­ people and national liberation organizations ing student and strike leaders in order to break to go on maintaining the revolutionary spirit the back of the movement for democracy. and conciousness high, and to be always alert Fourthly, the military regime resorted to the nefarious tricks employed by the enemy to the deception of dangling the possibility to break up their unity. of democratic election, without seriously During the 40 years rule of successive making democratic changes. Another decep­ anti-democratic government, the students, tion was the declaration of amnesty for student people and revolutionary forces in Burma and civilians who, by the thousands, had gone have been subjected to tests in the areas of underground after September 18. military, politics and unity. They are under­ Then it made fervent efforts to sow dissension going the tests at the present as well. It is of and mistrust between the students and the prime importance for all the revolutionary revolutionary organization. forces in Burma to bear these tests with At this stage, there are three things Saw equanimity, build up internal unity and step Maung military regime and its mentors, Ne up their struggle in order to clinch the final Win and Sein Lwin, fear most. They are .- victory in due time. KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 3

AUTOPSY ON WHAT IS LEFT OF THE BSPP (NUP) REGIME.

Burma has ample space with fertile and the above factors, the economic progress will arable lands for agriculture. There also exist not only be smooth but also will tend to be generous quantities of minerals and precious quick and rapid. gems deposited in the hills and over the plains The second essential point is the ability of the country. During the feudal and the to fully utilize the country's local investments. colonial days the country stood shoulder to The full utilization of the country's capital shoulder in stutus with other eastern countries investments', in accordance with the meaning in aspects of prosperous economic and social of this economic term and phrasing indicates standards. In view of the above factors, a different meaning from private enterprise analyses were conducted and considerations or unrestricted LAISSEZ FARE (Free enter­ and studies are being made over the rapid prise). This system forms only a part and economic progress and its possibilities that not the whole of (full utilization of the coun­ are involved. A general study basically indi­ try's investment) cates that this country possesses a viability The third essential factor is full utiliza­ and a very easy access toward economic tion of foreign investments. Economically growth and general prosperity. It is obvious speaking, foreign investments, foreign mone­ that Burma stands in a good position to tary loans and foreign assistance could not become a country with an affluent society. necessarily be taken as adequacy or sucess. It is apparently therefore quite ambiguous The fates of Latin American countries who and most interesting to find out the true could not repay their loans and rendered in­ reasons why such a promising state, after its solent should be the evidence one should forty years of independence had deteriorated keep in mind. and had economically fallen into the shameful The fourth necessity is stability of level or status of the world's poorest countries. monetary exchange values and the promotion It is fitting and proper now, for researchers of loans and savings within efficient banking who have the welfare of the world's commu­ systems. In the absence of the above, and nities at heart, to make careful analyses with with the instability of the local currency values, powerful microscopes, so to speak, on the the country's economic progress will not be whole situation of Burma under the BSPP an easy matter. The incessant demonetizing (NUP) Regime, in order to obtain all the pre­ of the local currency by the BSPP (NUP) cise and minute details of the true (Cause government in particular, is grossly detri­ and Effect). mental to monetary stability in value, the ef­ The economic progress and its feasibility fectiveness of national investment causing for a country cannot be rightfully determined the general economic functioning to suffer a by only a single cause or factor. There exists notable set back and degradation. involvement of multifarious factors for such The fifth necessary factor lies in the full verdict. The following number of factors use of the country's workforce or labour should be included as yardsticks to calculate power. In advanced and modern states, or measure accurately:- departments of labour utilization and control The first factor necessitates, adequacy are set up. These establishments undertake of arable lands and a fair quantity of mineral to study and obtain datas pertaining to the deposits. There must be enough land to pro­ strength and allocations of labour force. duce food supplies and raw materials for in­ Research works are carried not to fulfill this dustries. For the heavy industries, a fair objective. This undertaking is one of the quantity of mineral oil and other mineral most important endeavours to promote na­ deposits are essential. With the presence of tional economic progress. 4 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN No. 18

The sixth point calls for stable .and The BSPP (NUP) Regime had for 26 lucrative foreign and local markets in proxi­ whole years prolonged and accelerated the mity with a substantial demand for local pro­ civil war. They were seeking gains through duction or goods and produce. If such con­ military exploitation. Their top brass grow ditions do not exist, again, the national econo­ rich at the expense of civil war. Instead of mic progress will be far from expectations. stabilizing the political situation they them­ Point seven is to adopt and practise the selves resort to instigations for the political principle of free trade and to legalize and instability in the country. The loansand aids promote cross-border trading activities. The from foreign lands are being misappropriated black market trade in fact do not help pro­ and squandered away privately by them. The mote the national economy. It is, on the labour force of the country received bad contrary diametrically, the epposite of what managements rendering the efficiency and ought to be and it is but fair and proper for incentive of the workers to diminish and to us to be aware of this fact. be decreased. They are holding a limitless The final essential factor is peace and power monopoly. They are power addicts tranquillity in the land. There stands nothing hopelessly drunken with unqualified authority. as evidence to prove that in a land where Taking an overall view on the problems, there is political unrest, national economy one fact will surely be revealed. To describe still gain growth and progress. This primarily in brief, it is not the lack of expertise in trade is the most basic factor. and economics that causes problematic issues. The extent of progress for national To find a solution in this aspect will be of no economy for any country can be comparatively benefit. The economic disaster must be viewed measured with the seven points mentioned together with the political instability in the above. In the same fashion as countries with land. An endeavour to apply only the remedy economic deterioration should see the men­ for wrecked economy would be likened to tioned causes as future lessons, those who using wrong medicine to certain mortal malady desire to improve their countries' economy that will spell unlimitted prolongation of agony should also see those points in then analyses to the patient. for economic progress. As for the present, under the rallying Upon careful diagnosis of the seven and the leadership of the students, a general misdeeds of the BSPP (NUP) one would cer­ and whole country-wide surge of the masses tainly have no doubt about the treachery and have exploded in protest against the BSPP swindling done by the regime for 26 long (NUP) regime. This upturn has a fire and force years through their Burmese way to Socialism that cannot be extinguished nor blocked. schemes. The concerted struggle by the students and Even on viewing the economic system the masses was neither caused nor led by the of the BSPP (NUP), alone, it would be plainly deteriorating and chaotic conditions of the obvious that they do not employ the right country's economy. It is above and beyond economic policy. Putting together their politi­ the heights of economic problems that the cal misdeeds with the economic errors they struggle is being under taken. This struggle employed, one would see nothing but absolute is a political struggle that is heading towards treachery over the whole affair. Such abuses the ideals of Democracy. This battle is a obviously not only led them to utter failures conflict undertaken by the ethnic races and but it would never be surprising to see that the masses of Burma who since the long span they have dropped down to the dregs of in­ of 40 years had craved for genuine and full solvency. political freedom and justices. KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 5

WILL THOSE WHO IGNITE THE FIRE BE ABLE TO EXTUIGUISH THE FLAMES ?

On the 18th of September 1988 a mili­ soldiers have no more confidence in their tary coup headed by General Saw Maung took mother defence forces and institutions. place. Will those who assume power on pre­ Since 1948 the Burmese army had act­ tence of maintaining peace and order be able ually been corrupt and had changed into to stop the fire they had set up? This is the mercenary troops during the post indepen­ question to be contemplated upon. dence era. Strictly speaking, the Burmese The flames of countrywide armed revo­ army succumbed to corruption and disgrace lution and the heat and the unrest of students commencing from the time General Ne Win and the masses had germinated since the times took charge. Not many were aware of this of the AFPFL. Reaching the present time of fact previously. It was thereby possible in the BSPP (NUP) regime, those two flames 1958, the caretaker government period, and immediately had grown to tremendous forces the 1962 coupd' etat period, that Ne Win due to the cruel and brutal military campaigns could hoodwink, the people and the army and the barbaric tactics that caused bloodbats personnel indicating that the Burmese army in urban areas of the country. The more vio­ belongs to the people and worthy of their lent methods the military regime employs, confidence. However, in consequence of their the bigger the flames will grow. To quell the totalitarian policy in administration and the forces that oppose them the BSPP (NUP) is fascism employed by their military henchmen now making use of its walking stick organi­ as of today in slaunghtering and shooting zation. This effort will never materialize down the unarmed demonstrators, the pre­ according to their plans. It will only lend vious misconceptions relating to their being greater opposition and give more fuel to both patriotic soldiers, the people's benefacter the flames of resistance by ethnic minority who protect the lives and properties of the groups and the masses. It only means put­ people had been completely pulled down and ting the two flames together. discarded by the people. The BSP Party, the BSPP (NUP) gov­ The masses therefore can no longer ernment and the BSPP (NUP) army are not believe in their slogans that imply their being different entities. They have only one iden­ the champion and the saviour of the people. tity. The last chairman of the waning BSPP People cannot take seriouly their loudly de­ (NUP) Dr. Mg Mg contended that absolute clared statements saying that they are helping power corrupts absolutely. As and when the to keep peace, tranquility and the rule of law BSP Party and its government are hopelessly to conduct the fair elections in accordance with corrupt through absolute power, the BSPP true democratic principles. It was at the time (NUP) army cannot be isolated from them when Gen. Ne Win took command of the and remain a paragon of virtue. The BSPP Burmese army during the AFPFL regime (NUP) military arm is as corrupt and unscru­ that the civil war stented. It is also a known pulous as the BSP Party and the BSPP (NUP) historical fact that Ne Win was involved and government. It has been involved in corruption was one of the resposible person who caused since the beginning. No one therefore has the out break of the civil war. There are any confidence toward all the three namely, however a couple of issues to be noted at this the BSP Party the government and the army. juncture of events. Since 1962 after Ne Win During the demonstrations in August and assumed power the civil war had been quali­ September many lower ranked NCOs and tatively as well as quantitatively accelerated soldiers of the army defied the authorities and enlarged. There was similarly also a sud­ and joined the rallies. This is one evidence den jolt of students' and peoples' unrest showing that even the junior officers and the under his regime. Notably from March 1988 6 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN No. 18 onwards, the BSPP Regime and troops caused In the present time for the benefit of blood baths in their attempts to unjustly sup­ all the indigenous races, all the people and press the peoples' civil rights demonstration. masses, and for the welfare of the whole There was a fire of no small size and force country, there are three forces that are essen­ signifying the righteous wrath of the people tial to be completely eliminated. They are the against over bearing tyranny. So severe an BSP Party, the BSPP (NUP) army, and the outcome was never seen in Burma before. government. If these forces of evil and dark­ Such kind of unlawful suppression by the re­ ness are still at large and if they are not liqui­ gime using the armed military might of the dated in good time, the country will suffer and army not only moved to be an utterly impotent will be enshrouded in utter darkness to an way to smother and stop the flames from the indefinite future. Ethnic Minorities revolutionary forces and The battle has now reached the crucial the Students' and the people's wraths but the movement for evaluation and judgement. The hard line action of the BSPP (NUP) regime forces who joined this battle cannot afford had also fanned up and increased the heat to be indecisive and vague. Even a little and flames of existing conflicts. It is like neglect can mean a great danger. Whatever adding fuel to the already flaming inferno. previous ties that existed with the BSPP's For the 26 years span of the unsuccessful (NUP) dark era, must now be completely and work of Ne Win's BSP Party and regime, totally severed. We shall fight and reconquer General Saw Maung now has emerged into our private properties that they once robbed the lime light, springing on to the platform from us and we shall enjoy what we regain of the arena with a drawn sword to represent with the spirit of "SHARE AND SHARE the BSPP (NUP). Saw Mg now staged a mili­ ALIKE" . tary coup and assumed power. Within barely The following points for revival and 7 days time that General Saw Mg slaughtered unity of the united front are as follows:- over one thousand unarmed civilian within The first point is in relation with a firm Rangoons' urban areas alone. In the same unity among, the students urban and rural manner as the blood stained hands of Ne Win people, the clergy, government employees, could do nothing to intimidate the masses the junior and common ranks in the police who rightly opposed him for attainment of service and the defence force, and all the Democracy, Saw Mg also has no power over ethnic minority races of the country. the masses who he had expected to cower under his butchering tactics. Their efforts Secondly, it is necessary that the N.D.F, will never be able to stop the masses in their and all the forces who oppose the BSPP advance for the right cause. (NUP) Regime must be united and have per­ fect understanding among themselves. In this The situation remained extremely com­ way strength and progress must be achieved. plicated even under Dr. Mg Mg's role as a Thirdly it is essential that the armed re­ representative of the BSPP (NUP). Matters volutionary forces have firm consolidation however grew clearer as and when the army with the masses in doing battle. There must who is supposed to be the people's army with be unity in mutual and reciprocal terms. the revolutionary tradition, who should earn Those who took up arms and fight for the the love and respect of the people because oppressed masses and the Ethnic minority involved in butchering the masses committing races had been countered with brutal and violence that caused blood baths blood that cruel methods such as the "Four Cuts Opera­ flowed from the people's bosoms, the slaugh­ tion" schemes, and the students and the ter of the school children and youthful stu­ masses of cities and towns were made to dents. These are but revelations of their real adorn wreathes of flowers to the BSPP (NUP) behaviour pattern and innate barbaric colour. soldiers for their unjust and brutal deeds. KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 7

This must be stopped and put to an end. the BSPP (NUP) regime. There is no way Fourthly, the urban and rural masses other than the above that could free us from who oppose the BSPP (NUP) tyrants must the forces of darkness and the instruments of reinforce and strengthen the armed revolu­ evil i.e. the BSPP regime. tionary forces to add into a bigger might that would vanquish the enemy in this grand battle. Those who started to create the flames All elements of strength within both the armed are now using force of arms to put out the revolutionary groups and civil anti govern­ fire. Within a few days the precious bloods ment organizations must take an all out effort of thousands of students and the civilians for effective instigation to crush the present had been shed. There were blood baths government. through the BSPP's (NUP) wanton shootings. The above 4 points in a nut shell, just Unarmed people were massecred and the mean that all the opposition groups, whether flames grew bigger and bigger and nothing big and small must adopt basically the word could stop it. Those who themselves ignited "FIGHT" as their chief slogan. The other the inferno, the BSPP (NUP) Regime, its slogan should be "BE UNITED". With these government and its troops themselves would two thoughts firmly conceived we shall be be consumed and destroyed by the flames emancipated and freed from the dark era of they had set up.

President Gen. Bo Mya, speaking at DAB meeting 8 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN No. 18

LESSONS OF HISTORY

Historians have been studying the events babies into a muddy pool and left them to die. of the world and extracted lessons from his­ Now in these enlightened modern days treating tory. They said that one lesson is "whom their own students in these inhuman ways, the gods would destroy they made them mad mowing down the innocent school children with power". And it will be seen that that is with their almighty weapons are but another . the truth. The ancient Babylonians, the Ro­ form of savagery of the primitive days. mans, had had their power and once they All these madness of power is but the misused their power, they became mad with herald of the down fall of these modern power, then that was their doom. Once upon savages. History had witnessed the fact and a time they had their magnificient Empires will still unroll the truth of the trend of the and now where are they? They are but ashes ages. And the historian said "the mills of and dust now trodden by humanity. Even God grind slowly but exceeding sure. The than that lesson is not learnt by some powers day will come when the dust and ashes of on earth. You don't need to seek far. Just these power mad people will be trodden un­ within your reach and sight you'll see -the der foot." power-mad people circle of a handful of Another truth revealed in the past is that people. We won't mention names. The world "The race is not to the swift nor the battle to all over see and hear of the atrocities com­ the strong." The world had witnessed the mitted to the indegenous races of Burma, the truth in the second world war.' When Ger­ Karen, Shans, Chins, Kachins, Paohs, Was many surrendered in the 2nd World War there and Lahus and now this latest in human were stacks of armoury left, brand new and cruelties to their own students. Isn't that just unused. Why were these arms unused? It murdering their own children? This is a case was because the power behind them had failed. of giving a snake when your child asks you Thus depending on strength of arms was not of fish, a stone for bread? The almighty a way to victory. On the other hand right power-mad group of people seem never to and truth will outstand and over-rule all in­ have heard United Nations Universal Decla­ human injustices and indecencies and Human ration of Human Rights. History recorded Rights will prevail eventually. the inhuman acts of the savages in the primi­ For ages men have fought for Freedom tive days that they threw their own crying and Right and that Right becomes Might is

Journalists and Cameramens at DAB meeting Press Conference at DAB meeting KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 9

what the pages of History have revealed and The Historian said, "It is darkest before recorded. So ye Champions of Freedom and dawn" and "Look! there are glimmerings of Right- "take heart and hold on". Rudyard the dawn." Kipling said, "If you can force your heart W.T. MO. and nerve and sinew. To serve your turn, P.S. The contributor has been a revolu­ long after they are gone. And so hold on, tionary mother before and is now a chris­ when there's nothing in you Except the will tian Evangelist. which says to them "Hold on!". - Editor -

Kawthoolei Youth Organisation (KYO) Musical and cultural group leaders at Mela.

Tie-ing Hands Ceremony at Mela. 10 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN No. 18

DEMOCRATIC FORCES IN BURMA GATHER SUPPORT LOCALLY BY RICK MURRAY Staff Writer EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP democracy Burmese groups, said the current regime has plenty of weapons but is running About 100 Burmese-Americans from out of money to buy ammunition and other throughout the Philadelphia-southern New essential provisions. Jersey region met here Saturday to begin "They have been spending 70 cents of planing how to support democratic forces in every dollar in Burma on the army," said their oppressed homeland. Nyein. "But without money coming in from "We have to do something right now. foreign countries, the army will begin to feel People are getting shot at random in the the shortages." streets," said Ba Thaung, chairman of the Mi Mi Myint - Hpw, representing the United Front for Democracy and Human committee for the Restoration of Democracy Rights in Burma. in Burma, said it was important for the various Ba Thaung was one of several repre­ Burmese-American organizations to coordinate sentatives of Burmese prodemocracy groups their efforts on behalf of prodemocratic rebels. speaking at the Pearl Garden restaurant here After the meeting, BAFA President before members of the Philadelphia-based Richard Thetgyi said officials in his group had Burma American Friendship Association. not decided what action to take in support of Laybeng Khaw, owner of the restaurant and the rebels. a member of the BAFA, is a native Burmese "We are just trying to come to the con­ who fled oppression in his homeland 17 years clusion of how to get united," he said, refer­ ago. ring to the other Burmese-American groups. Terror escalated in Burma after rioting There are about 35,000 members of the students challenged the central military gov­ National Democratic Front, comprising the ernment in August. students as well as formerly rival but equally The students won the resignation of oppressed ethnic groups in the Burmese bush longtime dictator Ne Win, but Ne Win con­ country according to Edith Mirante, an artist, tinues to hold power through surrogates. researcher and writer who has made repeated Thousands of rebels - including many un­ trips to Burrma. armed civilians have been killed in sporadic About 10,000 Burmese communists also fighting, according to wire services and Bur­ oppose the current government. Mean while, mese- Americansources. the military now has 170,000 troops, accord­ The United States and many other ing to Mirante, who gave a slide presentation countries have cut off diplomatic relations at the association meeting. with the Burmese government, but Burmese- She said corrupt government officials Americans say the U.S. should work with the and some rebels traffic in opium grown amid United Nations in applying still more pressure crops raised by impoverished Burmese peas­ to further weaken the military regime. ants. Officially, the government attempts to "Above all we need help to overthrow curb such traffic by spraying a herbicide that this barbaric regime. We need help from had been used in the manufacture of Agent America. With it, we can go a long way. By Orange. ourselves, we can't do that much," said Myo This aerial spray campaign, underwrit­ Thant, general secretary for the UFDHRB. ten largely by the U.S., contaminated many Dr. Tun Kyan Nyein, a Knoxville, streams and subsistance crops in many rural Tenn., physician and member of several pro- regions, said Mirante. KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 11

BACK UNDER THE SHADOW OF NE WIN

Analysis by Michael Adler of Agence France Presse

BURMA is slowly returning to the same is the first one who talked about democracy. police state and life in the shadow of strong­ It wasn't people in the streets," said one dip­ man Ne Win which prevailed before a dashed lomat, referring to the degree to which any mass protest for democracy, analysts and initiatives must come from the general. diplomats said. After Ne Win resigned amid growing They said that after a September 18 coup protest against his rule, swelling waves of thwarted an unprecedented two months of demonstrations swept away the administration "people's revolution" a central question has of his Burma Socialist Programme Party, returned to haunt Burma - is and real change leaving the secret police in disarray and monks, possible before Ne Win leaves the scene? students and workers running towns, Rangoon "After all that, we're back to the starting based diplomats said. point," said one observer reached in Rangoon "It did collapse (the police network) but by phone. it's coming back with a vengeance," a dip­ "Ne Win and his people are still there lomat said. because over the past 26 years Ne Win has "There is fear that if you don't cooperate groomed these people. There's nobody else. you'll go to prison or be shot. He wants to be number one in everything," "There are summary executions or Bangkok international relations professor threats that if you don't go back to work you Chayachoke Chulasiriwong said. go to prison for five years," he said. "The only change that has happened is "The population has been cowed," said that some people have stood against the the Western diplomat resident in Rangoon. Government. Now everybody is being hunted Diplomats said elections promised by and they are firmly put away," he said. Gen Saw Maung and the emergence of poli­ The normality returning after a govern­ tical parties are more cosmetic than real ment order to end a six-week general strike; changes. and return to work seems a grim reaffirmation "If you're a realist about this, you can­ that real change is impossible unless Ne Win, not expect free democratic elections in a 77, leaves the country or dies. country ruled by one person for 26 years and They added that it is hard for foreigners a military elite which is used to having its to understand the respect, fear and awe with way," the Western diplomat said. which he is viewed by the Burmese, particu­ "They're not going to all of a sudden larly the army, which reveres the bogyoke let people come into democracy. (great leader) ruling the military almost since "But in order to gain, to use the situation independence in 1948. politically, there has to be at least a pretence "The whole irony of this is that Ne Win of a move in that direction," he added. 12 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN No. 18

BURMA Passing in the dark Singapore is accused of supplying military regime with arms

By Bertil Lintner in Bangkok

With Burma's foreign-exchange reserves some rockets, all export of Swedish muni­ down to an all-time low of no more than tions to Burma ceased (REVIEW, 8 Sept.'83). US$10 million and increased rebel activity in Sweden's strict export laws stipulate, among the frontier areas, the supply of imported other things, that it cannot sell war material ammunition, mainly rockets and mortars, has to countries where there is a civil war, or those become a critical problem for the military government violates the UN charter on human regime. But now it is alleged that Singapore rights. has stepped in with arms supplies. But in 1983, FFV made a secret agree The Burmese defence forces are partly ment with Chartered Industries according to dependent on imported raw materials for the which Carl Gustaf rockets could be produced' local production of bullets and light mortars under licence in Singapore. The secret deal as well as the supply of certain heavy arms was approved by the Swedish Government, ammunition which cannot be made locally. on condition that the rockets would not be Washington suspended all its aid on 23 re-exported to other countries without prior September, in the aftermath of Gen. Saw approval from Stockholm. Maung's takeover five days earlier and the However, Svenska Dagbladet claims that subseqent massacre of unarmed demonstrators several shipments of 84-mm rockets have since in the streets of Rangoon. At the same time. been sent from Singapore to Burma without Washington was reported to have stopped a any such approval. Soren Gindal from FFV scheduled delivery of ammunition for the said that chartered Industries had not reported Burmese army's US-made carbines and M-79 any re-export deals. The Swedish attorney- grenade launchers. general is now investigating the allegations The first revelation of Singapore's in­ and, if found guilty, Chartered Industries volvement was made on 14 September by the will most probably lose its licence for local Swedish daily newspaper Svenska Dagbladet. manufacture. The newspaper, quoting Burmese military However, another shipment of Singa­ sources, reported that Singapore Government pore-made munitions to Burma was reported controlled Chartered Industries had violated by Rangoon-based sources, who said that on an agreement with the Swedish arms manu­ 6 October - well after the military takeover facturer Forenade Fabriksverken (FFV) by and the subsequent massacre - heavy boxes, re-exporting to Burma 84-mm Carl Gustalf reportedly marked "Allied Ordnance, Singa­ rockets. pore" were unloaded in Rangoon's port. Allied In 1982, FFV secured permission from Ordnance is a joint venture between Sweden's the Swedish Government to export Carl Gustaf Nobel Industries and Shengli Holdings, an rocket launchers to Burma. The deal was ex­ investment arm of the Singapore Government. posed in the Scandinavian press at the time That night, there was a curious black-out along and after receiving about 500 launchers and Prome Road in Rangoon - leading from the KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 13 port towards the Mingaladon military area Singapore to Burma, though the exact details north of the city - while heavily laden army are not known. Given Burma's lack of foreign trucks rumbled past. exchange, several sources have suggested a barter deal or use of former leader Ne Win's "The supply was substantial,'' one source private funds. said. We believe the boxes contained heavy Burma's total imports from Singapore arms ammunition; rockets and mortars and amounted to S$99.1 million (US$49.5 million) possibly other munitions as well." in 1987 and S$79 million from January-June Bangkok-based Singapore diplomats 1988. Singapore statistics for export to Burma would not confirm or deny the alleged ship­ show a breakdown of S$38.5 million for ments and referred to their country's open machinery and transport in 1987, and, in policy for the export of war material. "We January-June 1988, S$20 million. Military are like France or China," said one diplomat. supplies are not mentioned specifically, but Other diplomatic sources said they were aware sources said they form a substantial part of of shipments of arms and ammunition from the "machinery."

Metawaw cliff, with small route through high rocky tops, (scene of present fighting ) in the back ground.

Some KNLA troops who captured Enemy Tac HQ with enemy flags. 14 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN No. 18

STATEMENT OF THE KAREN NATIONAL UNION (KNU) 8th CENTRAL COMMITTEE MEETING OF THE 9th CONGRESS.

The BSPP (NUP) one - party military 1. Position on Student Movement government, waging a long and relentless ci­ The Karen National Union firmly and vil war, had been resisted by the oppressed fully supports the heroic struggle of the stu­ people and the armed revolutionary forces dents for democracy, under the leadership of with determination and courage. While this All Burma Students Union. With open arms, resistance was in progress, the anti-military the KNU warmly welcomes the fighting stu­ dictatorship movement and the struggle for dents, monks and people from all walks of true democracy, led by the students and par­ life who have come to its areas. The KNU ticipated by monks and the general public, will continue to help them, by all possible broke out in all parts of the country. Due to means, in matters of food, health care and the confluence of the two struggles, the BSPP the struggle for democracy. (NUP) military dictatorship had to face dif­ 2. Position on Organizations Oppossing the ficulties on all sides. Military Government As a consequence, military dictator Ne The KNU firmly and fully supports the Win and some of his cohorts had to resign opposition parties and organizations which from the top posts of the party and govern­ are continuing the struggle for true democra­ ment. U Sein Lwin, the "Butcher" also had cy and basic human rights. It is the convic­ to resign from presidency after 17 days in tion of KNU that unity is essential to continue power. President U Maung Maung, succeeding the struggle. U Sein Lwin, had likewise failed to stabilize 3. "Position on Formation of Interim Gov­ the situation. To save the BSPP (NUP) gov­ ernment ernment from utter destruction, the military Any interim government must be com­ junta led by Gen. Saw Maung staged a coup d' posed of individuals who are accepted by the etat on September 18, 1988. people and who, in any way, have nothing to do with the National Unity Party which, in The military government, which is the essence, is the re-labelled BSPP, (NUP) KNU same old BSPP (NUP) military dictatorship supports the formation of such and an in­ in a different form stepped up the suppression terim government, because democratic rights of democratic rights of the people. Under the and freedom can emerge only under such a pretext of restoring law and order, it ruthlessly government. massacred thousands of innocent civilians, 4. Position on Election and issued orders after orders, curtailing basic It is advisable to support and contest human rights. House to house searches are in an election held under the supervision of made in order to execute or arrest and im­ an interim government composed of indivi­ prison the students, monks and civilians who duals accepted by the people. A fair and had participated in the demonstrations. democratic election can never be possible under the military government which has To deliberate upon the current objective blatantly trampled under-foot the democratic conditions of Burma, and to lay down guide­ and human rights. Any election held under lines and future action plans, the Eighth the military government will never ursher in meeting of the Ninth Congress of KNU was a democratic society or a democratic form of held from September 6 to 12. The following government, as it would benefit only the Na­ positions and decisions were unanimously tional Unity Party, the re-labelled BSPP. adopted. (NUP) KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 15

5. Acquirement of Foreign Aid military government, to suspend their assis­ Due to inhuman and ruthless suppression tances. by Saw Maung military government, thousands 6. Suspension of Diplomatic Relations with of students, monks and civilians have arrived the Military Government in KNU areas for refuge. The KNU has been The KNU will go on urging various gov­ doing everything possible in its capacity to ernment, to break off diplomatic relations provide them with food, medical care, clothing with Saw Maung military government which and other basic necessities. has been blatantly violating democratic and For the continuation of the unfinished human rights of the people by slaughter of struggle of the students, monks and general unarmed civilians, torture and imprisonment, population, the KNU will go on sending appeal since it came to power. to:- 7. Position on Anti-Military Government (a) The government and non-govern­ Movement ment organizations in the world to extend The KNU declares its firm conviction moral and material support to the activist that a more effective antimilitary government students, monks and the people in Burma movement can be launched by forming a who are fighting for democracy. The KNU broad alliance of all parties, organizations highly appreciates and puts on record the and prominent individuals opposing Saw suspension of aid given to Burma government Maung military government into "Burrma by other countries. Anti-military Dictatorship Alliance" for the (b) Foreign governments and organiza­ coordination of the struggles for true demo­ tions, which are still giving assistances to the cracy, national equality, unity and peace.

October 12, 1988 Central Standing Committee Karen National Union.

ABC TV. interview Gen. Tamlabaw, Chairman at ABSDF meeting at Wanka. 16 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN No. 18 POSITION OF THE NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT CONCERNING THE STUDENTS WHO HAVE ARRIVED IN THE REVOLUTIONARY AREAS. The NDF wants to make known its a free-standing organization, being able to position to the students, monks, and civilians speak for itself and act on its own volition. who fled to the revolutionary areas after the 4. The NDF feels that it is of utmost impor­ military takeover by Gen. Saw Maung as tance that the students be united under one follows: banner and one leadership and not be frag­ 1. Because of the harsh, inhuman suppression mented into numerous student organizations. by the soldiers of Gen. Saw Maung, the stu­ In order to improve unity, the NDF sees the dents, monks, and civilians from the cities need for the students to establish a central have had to seek refuge in. NDF-held sanc­ executive council to represent all the students tuaries. The NDF cordially accepts and re­ throughout Burma. Only then will the stu­ ­­ives those seeking refuge. The NDF is dents in the various revolutionary strongholds committed to help take care of these people be able to coordinate their efforts in the to the extent that they are able to do so. struggle for democracy. The NDF is com­ 2. The NDF support and accepts those stu- mitted to assisting in every way to help realize dents who have left the cities because they can the goal of student unity and mutual under­ no longer seek their demands peacefully due standing. to the killing and brutal suppression carried 5. After the students have established an ex­ out against them by the military dictatorship ecutive council, then the NDF will join hands and because they are resolved to continue the with the students in the fight against the mil­ fight for democracy, being prepared to meet itary dictatorship. Likewise we call on the the enemy with the weapons of his choice : other opposition parties and prodemocratic by knife, by spear, or by gun. At the same forces to join hands with the students (like time the NDF gives its full support to those the NDF) whole heartedly in the struggle who are continuing the struggle for demo­ against the military dictatorship. cracy in the cities. The NDF strongly believes 6. The NDF recognizes that since the students, that in order to overthrow the military dicta­ monks, and civilians left their towns and vil­ torship it is important for those in armed lages with nothing but what they were wearring struggle to unite political means. and hand on themselves, they are suffering 3. The NDF has no desire to manipulate, ex­ very much. We call on all the citizens of Bur­ ploit, or take advantage of those students, mese expatriates and sympathetic foreign relief monks, and civilians who have sought refuge organizations and friends to provide urgent and assistance from the NDF. We consider humanitarian assistance to the students as soon them as fellow comrades-in-arms who have as possible. been brought together by fate for the same 7. The NDF calls and welcomes all prodemo­ struggle. The NDF objects to any outside cratic revolutionary groups, persons in favor organization attempting to organize the stu­ of democracy, students, civilians and monks dents for their own selfish purposes or to in- to all join hands and march together in the terject their own agenda. The NDF wants to struggle and campaign to overthrow the mili­ encourage the students to be independent as tary dictatorship in Burma. ALL THE OPPOSITION FORCES MUST BE UNIFIED ! EVERYONE EVERYWHERE MUST UNANIMOUSLY OPPOSE THE MILITARY DICTATORSHIP! REAL DEMOCRACY MUST BE ESTABLISHED I October20,1988 Presidium The National Democratic Front (NDF) Burma. KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 17

ALL BURMA STUDENT'S DEMOCRATIC FRONT CENTRAL COMMITTEE BASED IN THE KAREN NATIONAL UNION (KNU) AREA DECLARATION 1/88

1. We are members of "All Burma Students' other revolutionary areas throughout the Democratic Front" (ABSDF) who have fought country, it is of utmost importance to regroup and are still fighting against the evil forces of and to unite them under the banner of A.B. Ne Win - Saw Maung's military dictatorship. S.D.F. Thirty student representatives from Reign of terror and barbarous brutality has the five main camps (namely, Saw Hta, Sal­ prevailed throughout the country for over ween, Mae Salit, Thay Baw Bo and Min Tha twenty-six years. Such military dictatorship Mee) have convence a conference at Thay is the manifestation of oppression and ex­ Baw Bo under the guidance of the Central ploitation of the most cunning and treacherous Committee of Karen National Union and manner. We, the students, together with the unanimously elected a central committee of people of the Union of Burma, have opened the following fifteen members. a new page in the history of Burma by doing 1. Tin Soe 8. Yee Tin spontaneous strikes and demonstrations 2. San Lin 9. Aung Hein peacefully throughout the country. 3. Thein Thike 10. Ko Ko Oo 2. However, there emerged more mass killings 4. Nu Nu Aye 11. Wan Hoke and bloodshed all over the country owing to 5. Maung Maung Taik 12. Phone Ko the brutalities of these neo-nazis. Their bru­ 6. Myo Thant 13. San Shwe Aung tality surpassed all sorts of evils and shocked 7. Kyaw Lin 14. Aung Khin the whole world. We, therefore, inevitably 15. Tin Lay have to leave for the Karen National Union revolutionary areas. We have no alternative 4. Together with the already existed armed and are compelled to take up arms to liberate revolutionary forces and with all the people our people from the tyrant rule of Ne Win - of Burma, we, students, will raise our students' Saw Maung's junta and to establish a genuine banner aloft and fight Ne Win-Saw Maung's Democratic Federal Union. military regime until these evil forces are 3. Since thousands of students have reached totally wiped out from the soil of our mother to various Karen National Union camps and land.

• The Struggle for genuine Democracy must win. • Ne Win - Saw Maung's Military dictatorial regime must perish. 18 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN No. 18

PRESS RELEASE OF THE DEMOCRATIC ALLIANCE OF BURMA (DAB). Date: November 19, 1988.

A historic meeting called the "General 15. Overseas Burmese Liberation Front Conference of Opposition to the Rangoon (OBLF) Military Regime" sponsored under the auspices 16. Overseas Karen Organization (OKO) of the National Democratic Front (NDF) was 17. People's Liberation Front (PLF) held in the Karen National Union (KNU) 18. Pa-O National Organization (PNO) controlled area at Klerday Camp in Burma, 19. Palaung State Liberation Party (PSLP) from 14 to 18 November 1988. 20. People's Patriotic Party (PPP) The meeting was attended by : - 21. Shan State Progress Party (SSPP) 1. All Burma Students Democratic Front 22. Wa National Organization (WNO) (ABSDF) as well as observers and invited guests. 2. All Burma Muslim Union (ABMU) The conference attended by the above 3. Arakan Liberation Party (ALP) 22 organizations elected the following top 4. Chin National Front (CNF) leaders: For Chairman, Gen. Bo Mya of the 5. Committee for Restoration of Demo­ KNU; for Vice Chairman, Chairman Brang cracy in Burma (CRDB) Seng of the KIO; for 2nd Vice Chairman, 6. General Strike Committee (Rangoon) Chairman Nai Shwe Kyin of the NMSP; for (GSC - Rgn.) 3rd Vice Chairman, Gen. Thwin of the PPP; 7. Kachin Independence Organization and for General Secretary, Chairman U Tin (KIO) Maung Win of the CRDB GHQ. 8. Karenni National Progressive Party The conference discussed the overthrow (KNPP) of the military dictatorship, the restoration 9. Karen National Union (KNU) of democracy, the achievement of peace and 10. Lahu National Organization (LNO) national reconcitiation, and the formation of 11. New Mon State Party (NMSP) a genuine federal republic for Burma. 12. Muslim Liberation Organization of Furthermore, the delegates discussed Burma (MLOB) various issues of national importance covering 13. National United Front of Arakan political, economic, organisational, diplomatic, (NUFA) and military affairs. 14. National Unity Party for Democracy The outcome of the conference was the (NUPD) mergence of an alliance, named the "Demo-

Chairmen and Secretaries at DAB meeting.

The entertaining Karen Done Dance at DAB meeting. KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 19

cratic Alliance of Burma" (DAB), comprised Thus the Democratic Alliance of Burma 10 ethnic members of the NDF, and 12 non- demands the immediate resignation of the NDF members, including students and youth illegal Saw Maung military regime and calls who joined the Democratic forces since the for the establishment of an Interim Govern­ recent popular uprising. Also present were ment whose main function is to hold free and other political parties and organizations re­ fair elections under the observation of the presenting expatriate Burmese communities United Nations, international parliamentarian from around the world. observers and the world media. The Democratic Alliance of Burma calls The Alliance pledges to further exert for unity among all the nationalities in their effective military pressure against the Rangoon common fight against the military dictatorship. military dictatorship. It recognizes the urgent need to consolidate The Alliance advocates free enterprise all the democratic opposition forces inside and expresses its serious intention to join in and outside of Burma. The Democratic regional economic development programs. Alliance of Burma expresses grave concern The Democratic Alliance of Burma de­ for the ongoing systematic and ruthless neu­ clares its foreign policy as one of active neu­ tralization of the dissident Burmese popula­ trality based on the five principles of peaceful tion by the Rangoon military regime. co-existence. The Democratic Alliance of Burma re­ The Alliance urgently appeals to the UN jects the claim of legality by the Saw Maung and all countries of the world, particularly to military dictatorship, and thus resolutely Burma's neighbouring countries for continued questions the sincerity of the latter's pledge non-recognition of the Saw Maung military to hold fair and free elections at an unspecified regime, and for withholding all foreign mili­ future date. The Alliance cautions the Bur­ tary, financial and other economic aid; and mese people and any other political organiza­ to support efforts of the Democratic Alliance tions from taking part in the above political of Burma for the restoration of peace, demo­ farce. It exhorts the Burmese people to totally cracy and national reconciliation in Burma. reject the so-called "election" unless it is con­ The Central Committee ducted under an impartial Interim Government "Democratic Alliance of Burma"

Students at Salween Camp No. 1 Students at Salween Camp No. 2 20 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN No. 18

DECLARATION OF THE DEMOCRATIC ALLIANCE OF BURMA.

We, the Democratic Alliance of Burma, The main objectives of the Democratic profoundly believe that people of Burma Alliance of Burma are defined as : cannot ever be complete and live in harmo­ 1. To overthrow the Rangoon Military nious communities that pratice the principles Regime. of Lokapala and uphold the democratic ideals 2. To establish a democratic form of of liberty, equality, justice and peaceful co­ government. existence among the nationalities, due to the 3. To end the civil war and restore in­ existence of anti-democratic ideals, and those ternal peace. individuals and groups who are its represen­ 4. To bring about national reconciliation tatives in the Union of Burma. and the creation of a genuine federal union. We ardently call upon the students, On March 2, 1962, the pratice of mili­ monks, the entire civilian population, and tary authoritarianism came into existence in the prodemocratic rank and file of the armed Burma. In addition, on September 18, 1988, forces to join with us in this struggle for the the Union of Burma became further enslaved restoration of democracy and national recon­ to an even more brutal and repressive milita­ ciliation. ry dictatorship at the cost of the life and blood We warmly invite those groups who of thousands of innocent civilians including oppose the Rangoon Military Regime and monks and students. those who accept the basic doctrine of the Democratic Alliance of Burma to join us in The Democratic Alliance of Burma was the struggle. formed by the unanimous consent of 22 groups We hereby resolutely declare, that we, consisting of the armed national revolutiona­ the Democratic Alliance of Burma, along with ries, the students and youths of Burma who the rest of the populace in Burma, will fight have a long revolutionary tradition, and the the Rangoon Military Regime employing every patriotic Burmese expatriates living abroad. military, political, and other means available.

20th NOVEMBER 1988 THE CENTRAL COMMITTEE DEMOCRATIC ALLIANCE OF BURMA KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 21

PRESS RELEASE

The democratic Alliance of Burma and General Strike Committee (GSC), repre­ (DAB) held its first executive Committee at a sentatives from various religious organizations liberated area in Burma from November 28 as well as organizations of Burmese expatriates to December 2, 1988. Chaired by General Bo such as the Committee for the Restoration of Mya, the head of the new Alliance, the Execu­ Democracy in Burma (CRDB). tive Committee out lined and delineated strate­ The Executive Committee reiterated its gies for the four branches of activity, viz. firm conviction that a free and fair election Military, Foreign Affairs, Finance and Orga­ is impossible under Saw Maung's military nization and Information. The Military Com­ dictatorship and that the people must boycott mittee comes under the supervision of Chair­ the farce. It is disappointed and saddened at man General Bo Mya; Foreign Affairs, under the disintegration of one or any opposition First Vice Chairman Brang Seng; Finance, party and urged for national unity. In this, under Second Vice Chairman Nai Shwe Kyin; special - appeal is made to the members of and Organization and Information under the Armed Forces to stand on the side of the Third Vice Chairman General Thwin. people by joining the ranks of the opposition Recognizing the fragile and oft frag­ and actively participating with DAB in restor­ mented opposition within the country, the ing freedom in Burma. committee sought to further strengthen DAB's It is confident that the people will not political base by welcoming as its 23rd Mem­ remain idle in the face of the continuing re­ ber - the All Burma Young Monks' Union, pression by the Saw Maung regime. Should thus, making DAB the largest single Political the unity and cohesion of the other democratic Alliance in Burma currently opposing the forces fail to meet the hopes and aspirations military dictatorship of Saw Maung. of the oppressed masses, the Democratic Participating in various capacities were Alliance of Burma (DAB) will find it expedient representatives from all indigenous nationali­ to act on their behalf with appropriate initia­ ties, Burmans, students leaders from the All tives and / or options including formation Burma Students Democratic Front (ABSDF), of a Provisional Government.

December 2, 1988 CENTRAL COMMITTEE DEMOCRATIC ALLIANCE OF BURMA (DAB) 22 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN No. 18

STATEMENT BY THE FOREIGN MINISTER, STEN ANDERSON, ON THE SITUATION IN BURMA.

Foreign office PRESS RELEASE Press Detachment

Burma is currently going through serious social order must be allowed to develop under political upheaval which is causing great hard­ peaceful and unbloody conditions. Thus, it ship to the Burmese people. The Swedish is with indignation that the Swedish Govern­ Government supports those forces who want ment witnesses how the military, by force of to bring freedom and democracy to Burma. arms, is trying to crush the efforts for demo­ The necessary transition to a new and free cracy.

1988-09-19

Dinner at DAB meeting Students at trainings KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 23

FROM THE OFFICE OF Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan New York

STATEMENT OF SENATOR DANIEL PATRICK MOYNIHAN TO RALLY FOR DEMOCRACY IN BURMA.

Thank you for your warm invitation to mese who have been protesting for democracy participate in this rally calling for the resto­ in Rangoon, and in Mandalay, and in Moul­ ration of democracy in Burma. Although I mein, and in Victoria Point can restore legiti­ cannot attend in person, I do not want to leave mate governmental authority to Burma. Until you without the words of encouragement and Burmans and Kachins, Shans and Karens sit praise you so richly deserve for making the down together in peace to resolve a civil war world pay attention to Burma. older even than Ne Win's dictatorship. Yesterday, the State Department an­ Since the Senate unanimously passed nounced it would suspend US aid. It expressed S.R. 464, my resolution condemning the displeasure with the new military government. government of Burma, the situation in that Of course, Burma does not have a new gov­ country has only worsened. The Burmese ernment, but merely a new general. But that people have continued to protest the tyrrany is of no consequence. I applaud the State of their government. The government, if it Department's decision. can still be called a government, is now led by a new military president, Saw Maung. We The United States must continue to be do not know how many innocent Burmese clear in its support for the restoration of have died since his appointment but we know freedom in Burma. With luck, the Burmese the violence has been brutal and unforgivable. Socialist Program Party will have the dubious honor of being the world's first socialist gov­ Two weeks ago today, I called for a ernment thrown out of power by its own suspension of US aid to Burma. I said that people. we should withhold all funds from the Gov­ Chay zoo tin ba day and aung myin ba ernment of Burma until a new democratic ze. (Burmese) government replaces the regime clinging to Thank you (wish you) all success. (Eng­ power in Rangoon. Until the courageus Bur­ lish translation) 24 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN No. 18

SPEECH BY U.S. CONGRESSMAN JIMLEACH, AT FREEDOM FOR BURMA DEMONSTRATION WASHINGTON D.C., SEPTEMBER 23, 1988.

Thenk you very much. Frankly, every that their society is being operated centrally body in Congress is so extraordinarily im­ and collectively in terms of economics, and pressed with what the Burmese people have we've found across this world - not just in so courageously been demonstrating in the the United States. But certainly' with many last months. And I, frankly, am very pleased models in the Far East ~ Taiwan; Japan, today to see that our government has decided Hong Kong, Singapore, as well as increasingly to cut off aid to the government in power - the Peoples' Republic of China - that centrally which by no means betokens a lack of sup­ operated economics don't work. Burma sym­ port for the Burmese people. It simply indi­ bolizes that. But thoroughly, as well, it sym­ cates a lack of confidence in the ability of bolizes a country where people do not express the Burmese government to operate, and power in the sense of "from the bottom up" frankly in the legitimacy of the Burmese instead we're seeing power demonstrated government itself. When we look at our "from the top down." And for that reason, Declaration of Independence, we formed a many of us believe, and are thoroughly com­ government that was based upon the princi­ mitted to urging the people of Burma to con­ ple of consent of the governed, and it's our tinue their dimonstrations. It's our assump­ theory of legitimacy that no government is tion from the outside, looking at the Bur­ legitimate without that consent. mese situation, the continuation of Ne Win's And the Burmese people are demon­ power is a "no win" proposition for the peo­ strating several things. One, they're saying ple of Burma. KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 25

SPEECH BY EDITH T. MIRANTE, DIRECTOR OF PROJECT MAJE, AT FREEDOM FOR BURMA DEMONSTRATION IN NEW YORK CITY, SEPTEMBER 25, 1988.

For a few years now, I have been try­ the chemical called 2,4-D, an ingredient of ing to alert people here in the United States Agent Orange, were provided to the Burma to the horrible Southeast Asian tragedy of Army supposedly for Opium eradication. The Burma, the human rights situation in Burma, military dictatorship used this chemical in a the political situation in Burma. I've been campaign of terror against tribal civilians doing this because I myself have spent some caught helplessly in the victim zone of the time in Burma's cities and in Burma's jun­ frontiers where the Army tried to fight in­ gles of the frontier regions, and the remote surgent forces. This program- went on for mountains. And everywhere the people said three years during which, meanwhile narco­ to me, ''We are suffering, why doesn't the tics production soared to over 1,000 tons per outside world help us? We are suffering, year, with the corrupt participation of the doesn't the outside world care about us?" dictatorship. And I would reply, "Well, it's just that the I used to tell people over there, when outside world doesn't know. It's not that they I'd sit with them in their bamboo houses, don't care, they just don't know." When I "Burma is like a nice looking piece of fruit - would return to the U.S. from over there, it like a perfect orange - to the outside world. was like these lines from a song by the Irish But then if you peel the orange, perhaps in­ rock band U2: "And it's true we are immune, side it's rotten. And perhaps even though it when fact is fiction and TV reality, and today looks perfect outside, may be there is a big the millions cry, we eat and drink while to­ worm inside." And that worm was Ne Win. morrow they die." Now that fruit has been peeled open. To make matters worse, the dictator­ Ripped open, through the courage of the ur­ ship of Burma was receiving aid and support ban revolution in Burma. The outside world from the United States. The aid program has knows, and the outside world believes, be­ been a total perversion in which aircraft and cause they've seen it on television every night

Escaped enemy porters at Mae Ta Waw. 26 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN

Now the world knows that Burma has been longer victim zones; a new Burma where in­ tortured and plundered by this man, Ne Win, stead of sending refugees to Bangladesh, who has the thieving corruption of Marcos, Burma can send surplus rice to Bangladesh; the evil terror tactics of Duvalier, the double- a new Burma where children are not killed, dealing narcotics trafficking of Noriega, and villages are not burned, dissidents are not the murderous thirst for blood of Pol Pot. tortured. Burma deserves to become this And he has been in power for longer than great country as befits its great people. most of them combined. And he is aided by We in the United States now know, so such henchmen as Sein Lwin (also known as we must care. It's like a miner trapped inside Dracula) and Saw Maung (also known as a mine in a cave-in, calling for help. If you Rasputin). don't know that he's down there, trapped in­ Now U.S. aid is cut off and U.S. diplo­ side the mine, and you walk past, that's OK. mats are leaving Rangoon. These are good But if you hear him down there calling "Help moves, but I hope this is not a replay of The me! Help me!", you have to do something Killing Fields, where once the U.S. flag is about it, you're morally obligated. Now the folded up and the helicopters are boarded, world has heard Burma's calls for help. we ignore what follows afterwards. The I have three words for the United States American people must care enough to help and UN on that subject. The three words those who want to build a new Burma. A are : "Just say no." No to the torture, no to new Burma where the frontier zones are no the killing, just say no to Ne Win.

NDF President Saw Maw Reh, speaking at DAB meeting. KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 27

NEWS OF THE STUDENTS.

After the taking of Power by Saw making all out efforts in helping them in Maung and his military clique, and the ruth­ matters of shelter, food clothing, medical less killings of thousands of students and cares to the best of their abilities. Camps are other dissidents within one single week, many set up for them after which necessary mili­ students dissidents have come over to the tary trainnings are given. The students select armed revolutionary areas all over Burma. their own camp commanders and their own Although called "Students", there are large group leaders to look' after and settle their number of monks, teachers, lawyers, doctors, own affairs. civil and military personnels workers, peasants, Coming from different places through and other social and economic classes and out the whole Burma, with differences in stratas of civilian populace are all included. race, class, religious beliefs, social back­ All these people accepted the leadership of grounds and political views, there had been the students as vanguard of their revolution. some clashes of opinions in trying to achieve their aim. There are two distinct groups The ultimate aim of the students is to among them. A small faction of them want continue on with their struggle against the to form a political party as vanguard of the military jaunta and overthrow them by armed revolution, but the over whelming majority revolution, after receiving military trainings want to maintain their original student iden­ and necessary aid. tity. The convening of students meetings All the armed revolutionary forces, and conference have now settled the issues warmly welcome these new arrivals, and are amicably.

KNU Bulletin Editor, speaking to students Students and masses at Salween Camp. at Salween Camp. 28 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN

List of students in Revolutionary Area Reasons for the return home of some students. The following is the list of students who arrive in the respective Revolutionary There have been reports of some stu­ Areas, up to Oct. 20, 1988. dents who return to their "homes" in the (List provided by NDF) enemy area, giving various false informa­ tions. The following are some important rea­ 1. KNU (Karen) Area sons for such returning students. Thay Baw Bo 2,400 (1) Enemy agents. There have been some Metarit 1,000 enemy agents along with - the students coming Meleta 450 to the revolutionary areas. Their aim is to Saw Hta 275 collect informations, and create discord among Metamiki 800 the students. Realising this, the students themselves managed to arrest some agents of New arrivals 2,000 the enemy, and the students themselves take 2. NMSP (Mon) area 1,800 necessary action on them with the approval 3. KIO (Kachin) area 1,300 of the respective re-volutionary leaders. The 4. PNO (Pao) area 500 remaining enemy agents fled back, giving all 5. KNPP (Karenni) area 221 sorts of false informations. New arrival 326 (2) Opportunist Elements. Some students 6. PSLP (Palaung) area 100 come along with others, with no intention to 7. SSPP (Shan) area 150 "Serve" but to get high positions and become leaders. When they were not elected to be Total 11,322 leaders, they were not satisfied with others

ABDSF Executive Committee Members (KNU Area) KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 29 and losing hope, they at last returned to the (4) Un - ruly Elements. Some people, by enemy, giving all sorts of information to save nature want to do their own will. They do their face and their lives. not accept team work, and care for no dis­ cipline. When discipline is enforced in the (3) Soft-hearted. Revolution is not a child camp, they create a lot of troubles and at last play, and not a bed of roses. find their way home. Some students when they meet with The students with firm determination hardships, (sickness, poor food, hard work, and undaunted courage are ready to sacrifice they cannot endure them and thus they atlast everything for the achivement of their ideals - return home, giving all sorts of informations freedom, democracy, peace and progress for so that they may not get severe punishment.) "To die fighting is better than to live a slave."

Students at Military Training. 30 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN

STUDENT LEADERS.

The Representatives of Students from ly elected as Central Executive Committee all Revolutionary Areas and Abroad meet at Members of the ABSDF. (All Burma Stu­ Kawmoorah Camp in Kawthoolei from 1-11- dents Democratic Front). 88 to 5-11-88. The following are unanimous­

1. Ko Tun Aung Gyaw — President 2. Ko Win Moe — Vice President 3. Ko Than Win — Gen. Secretary 4. Ko Aung Naing — Joint Gen. Secretary (1) 5. Ko Ko Oo. — Joint Gen. Secretary (2) 6. Ko Sai Myo Win Tun — Secy. Foreign Committee 7. Ko Tun Oo. — Secy. Organization and Propaganda Committee 8. Ko Ko Lay — Secy. Information and Public Relation Committee 9. Ko Kyi Moe — Secy. Supply Committee 10. Ko Mg. Mg. Thein — Secy. Business Scrutiny Committee 11. Ko Kyaw Lin — Secy. Discipline Control Committee 12. Dr. Tha Tha Oo. — Secy. Health and Social Affairs Committee 13. Ko Kyaw Htin — Secy. Finance Committee.

ABC TV. interviewing leaders of ABSDF at Wanka. KNU BULLETIN No. 18 DECEMBER 1988 31

THE BATTLE OF METAWAW. Metawaw, opposite the Thai Ban Tah 75 and No. 76 Infantry Bns, defending Meta­ Song Yang, on the Moei river, in the past, waw, and occupied the trading centre, inclu­ was just a small border ferry point, with ding the highest peak which commands the almost no human habitation. In 1974, the whole area of rocky cliffs and other hill tops KNU has set up a custom point there, and it in the wests. has rapidly grown up to a thriving trading Two enemy divisions, namely. No. 44 centre with school, hospital, Christian church, Division, comprising No. 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7 Buddhist monastry, and Muslim Mosque, Light Infantry Battalions and No. 66 Divi­ until January, 1984, when the Burmese Army sion, comprising No. 75, 76, 78, 80, 81 and attacked and occupied it. 82 Inf. Bns, a total of (12) Battalions, are Geographically, Metawaw is just a nar­ mobilised by the enemy in its efforts to re­ row strip of land, approximately 400 yards capture Metawaw. long and 100 yards wide, bounded on the east KNLA deploys some GHQ troops for by the Moei river which serves as border bet­ defending Metawaw, and some troops for ween Thailand and Burma, and the remaining harassing the enemy at its rear-line, and cut­ (3) sides south, west and north, by high steep, ting its supply line, using guerilla and mine rocky chiffs, with only one small narrow pass war-fare tactics. on the western side. Fierce fighting continue almost daily till Metawaw owes its importance to its now, the enemy making most of the attacks. strategic position in that although all the The following is an in complete list of casual­ routes from the Moei river to Burma proper, ties of both the enemy and KNLA for a have to cross the difficult Dawna Range period of over (2) months from 26/9/88 which runs parallel to the Moei river, the to 30/11/88. route from Metawaw to Burma proper goes Enemy Casualities KNLA Casualities through a small low winding pass, with no ridge or hill, and thus it is the easiest route - Killed 312 - Killed 49 from Thailand to Burma. Metawaw also - Wounded 1,048 - Wounded 156 serves as gateway to the KNU Headquarters - Deserted 482 from the southern side. Total 205 For (4) years the Burmese army occupied - Arrested 5 Metawaw and the KNLA military operation - Surrender 1 to retake it started on the 26th of September, 1848 1988. A small combined force of KNLA at­ Note, The above casuality list is care­ tacked and occupied Bu Baw Kyo hill top fully compiled out of various informations (Ak Gyaw Gon) after (10) minutes fighting. received from KNLA front line, from es­ All the enemies fled and the KNLA captured caped enemy porters, from captured and the Burmese army post Commander Capt. surrendered enemy personnels, from captured Sai Ohn Gyaw, with a quantity of arms and enemy documents, and from villagers and military stores. On the next day, the KNLA, masses who have personally witnessed the encouraged by its success the previous days, events and facts. attacked Maw Ko Lay, another strategic hill It has been learned that the enemy Co­ Lock and occupied it with little resistance lumn Commanders of battle often complained, from the enemy. The enemy made a counter murmured and admitted that althrough their attack on the next day (28-9-88) but was re­ troops (Burmese army) are superior in man pulsed with heavy casualities on their side. and armaments strength, they are inferior to Fierce fighting continued daily and on the KNLA in matters of MORALE and mili­ 8.10.88, the KNLA over ran the enemy No. tary TACTICS. 32 DECEMBER 1988 KNU BULLETIN

Most of the attacking enemy troops are casualities of his troops daily, was much dis­ young ones, with little training and experience tressed and downcast. He therefore con­ and are low in morale, because of sickness, tacted the KNLA commanders at the front hard life and their high casualties. Drunkeness line for meeting and discussion (on truce) to raise their morale while attacking, makes and he was prepared to face any action upon good and vulnerable targets for the KNLA. this move. He was immediately arrested and sent back by his higher authority. The lastest informations received is 7, Details of military situations and Battle that the most senior enemy officer conduc­ Reports of KNLA and NDF troops will appear ting this gruel battle, having seen the high in our next issues.

SOME STUDENT GROUPS IN KNU AREA

Mae Salit Camp (Leaders) Mae Salit Camp (Hlaingbwe group)

Mae Salit Camp (Pa-an — Shwegun group) Salween Camp