Thursday, May 17, 2012

NLD opening more local branches in Arakan State

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Thursday, 17 May 2012 12:28 Mizzima News

(Mizzima) – The National League for Democracy (NLD) party has been opening village-level offices in Arakan State with an aim to bring rural people into the political process and educate them about democratic principles and rights, said Khin Hla, an NLD regional leader.

An NLD office branch in Bu Shwe Maw village, Taungup Township, Arakan State. Photo: Narinjara

“We have already opened village-level offices in a number of rural villages in Taungup Township,” he said.

The party reopened its main office in Taungup on February 22, 2012.

Office branches have been opened in Sarprun village, Ngaroketaung village, Kyawkai village, Bueshwemaw village, Kularaung village, Panhtawkyun village and Natkan village in Taungup Township.

“Every citizen of a democratic country should know about the essence of democracy and the constitution of their state,” he said. “They should know their rights as well as their responsibilities and obligations as a citizen. They should know the policies of our NLD party as well,” he said.

Khin Hla said they have faced obstacles from some government authorities and leaders who want to keep control over what can happen in the political life of the area.

When the group was preparing to open offices in the Thunchikaing Village Tract in Taungup Township, he said an official “told us that without his permission, no party can carry out any activities in the villages. We have complained to the higher authorities, but no action has been taken against him yet.”

The NLD was well establishment in Taungup Township in southeastern Arakan State during the 1990 elections. The military authorities of the former regime cracked down on the party in the township arresting and imprisoning its leaders and members after the elections. Party chairman Kyaw Khinel; secretary Khin Hla; and treasurer Min Aung were among those arrested and imprisoned; they have since been released.

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