Thursday, August 4, 2011

Shan State USDP minister resigns in marriage, drug scandal

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Thursday, 04 August 2011 20:06 Tun Tun

New Delhi (Mizzima) – The former Planning and Economics minister in Shan State has been caught up in a drama of alleged adultery and drugs, according to political sources and police.

The ex-minister, Thaung Shwe, who is a Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) MP, was allowed to resign this week on his own volition. He remains a member of Parliament.

The state-run New Light of Myanmar newspaper reported this week that he resigned on his own volition.

Political sources now say his resignation was prompted because of his marriage life and the discovery of illegal drugs at the lodging where his alleged mistress was temporarily staying.

Thaung Shwe is the first minister to resign from the Shan state cabinet in the new government.

Thaung Shwe, who was elected as a member of the Lower House in the Kalaw Township Constituency No. 1, is married to San San Myint, 51, of Taunggyi, said sources close to the case.

The minister was allegedly involved with a 35-year-old woman who is a resident of Kalaw in Shan State, said the source.

On July 12, a parcel was sent to the lodging where the woman was staying in Taunggyi. A short while later, anti-drug police searched the premises and reportedly found 30 kg of raw opium and 87 amphetamine pills. The woman was arrested.

So far, eight people were arrested in connection with the drug case including San San Myint. They have been charged under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act in Taunggyi District Court, according to police.

“They are facing trial in court. San San Myint has been granted bail by the court,” said an officer in Taunggyi Police Station No. 2.

According to one source, San San Myint is living in Thayarkone in Taunggyi and has been placed under a restriction order.

Currently, it is not clear whether Thaung Shwe can survive as an MP and member of the USDP. The Constitution states that members of Parliament must maintain their dignity.

However, one lawyer involved in the case told Mizzima, “After the investigation conducted by the anti-drug police, it has become obvious that it is a plot.” He did not elaborate or provide any other information.

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