CALD Resolution No. 4 S. 2013

CALD Resolution No. 4 S. 2013 

“Our people are just beginning to learn that freedom of thought is possible, but we want to make sure that the right to think freely and to live in accordance with a conscience has to be preserved… We still have to work very hard before the basic law of the land, which is the constitution, will guarantee us the right to live in accordance with our conscience.” – Daw Aung San Suu Kyi

CALD resolution expressing its strongest support for constitutional reforms in Burma as a way of providing institutional solutions to ethnic conflict and of developing an inclusive and more representative electoral system that facilitates genuine democratic changes and sustainable economic development

The Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats (CALD):

Aware that the 2008 military-backed constitution of Burma does not reflect the true interests of the people and is in need of inclusive reforms to address the country’s on-going ethnic conflicts and unfair electoral system and processes;

Noting that Burma, being a highly diverse multi-ethnic society, needs to respond to the escalating conflicts between the government and various ethnic groups, and that strategic and transparent amendments to the constitution may provide a solution to these worsening disputes;

Aware that Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, leader of the Burmese opposition, is barred from contesting the presidency in the 2015 elections due to the consitutional provision stating that Burmese nationals who have a foreign spouse or children are prohibited from running for president or vice president;

Noting that on 25 July 2013, a 109-member parliamentary committee was established to review a set of proposed constitutional amendments;

Mindful that, while there have been efforts to push for constitutional changes, a transparent parliamentary process with more inclusive people participation, as well as an exercise of crucial democratic leadership role by the government, are necessary to push for genuine reforms leading to the 2015 elections;

Hereby:

Urges President Thein Sein and the current government to fast-track the parliamentary constitutional review process and push for inclusive constitutional reforms that allow ethnic reconciliation and institutionalize free and fair elections;

Reiterates the call of the international community pushing for constitutional reforms in Burma to further strengthen democratic gains and sustain economic development;

Believes that genuine democracy can only be achieved when transparent and accountable institutions are in place and when the constitution is a reflection of the genuine consensus and aspirations of the people;

For the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats:

Sam Rainsy                                                   J.R. Nereus Acosta

Chairperson                                                    Secretary General

8 December 2013

Categorised in: Resolutions

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