Burma - National Convention

Burma - National Convention

Question: What is our reaction to reports that Burma has decided to adjourn its Constitutional Convention?

Answer: We note the reports that Burma's ruling junta adjourned its National Convention on March 31. As we have stated previously, absent the participation of the democratic opposition and ethnic minority groups, the National Convention does not reflect the true political aspirations of the Burmese people, nor does it serve as a real forum for the meaningful dialogue that is needed to achieve genuine national reconciliation.

Given these deep flaws, any constitution that emerges from the National Convention when it reconvenes in May, and any subsequent referendum or general election would by extension lack legitimacy, and would not constitute meaningful steps toward the establishment of democracy in Burma.

2005/367 Released on March 31, 2005

Taken Question Office of the Spokesman Washington, DC March 31, 2005 Question Taken at the March 31, 2005 Press Briefing