Friday, March 31, 2017

One year journey to a democratic nation



March 30, 2017
I t has been one year since the National League for Democracy was able to form a civilian government with the slogan “Time for change” and a steadfast support from the people. In accord with democratic customs it is customary to promulgate 100-days and one year reviews of the workings of the elected government.


Only after the publication of the reviews through state owned media can we clearly see the achievements of the current government. Transferring of ruling power is much like taking over the wheel of an old car on a journey. We may need to repair some parts, change some parts or replace some altogether while still keeping a steady pace towards the goal.



There once was a time when Myanmar was quite prestigious among the region but now everyone knows it is lagging behind in respect to other countries. The reason being that fall of political stability led to the decline of the economy as well. That is why the government is prioritizing national reconciliation, ending conflicts, and full realization of human rights so that the economy can be revitalized and there are equal standards for all.

In the road towards equal development it is important that there is no prejudice in the nation and this was quickly addressed in the first few days of the current government. It is the harsh truth that prejudice has been deeply rooted in the nation for decades. There has been support for eradication of prejudice in the government which I believe shows the government listens and fulfills to the people’s needs.

Concerning the situation in Rakhine, accusations and blaming by the international community is directing the economy of the nation with the government making firm and practical responses to the situation which can be likened to a parent caring for their children. The fact that the Tatmadaw and the government collaborated on the various issues in Rakhine as well as in other important matters heralds development of relations between civilians and the military.

In the three pavilions of legislative, executive and judiciary of a democratic nation, legislature has shown concrete results in the country’s economy.

It is widely known that Act 5 (f) can be easily applied in arresting politicians; however the Hluttaw has abolished it. Also successfully amended was the law that required reporting of inhouse guests that caused inconvenience to visitors in town and villages. In the recent Hluttaw, a Citizen Privacy and Security Law was enacted to ensure citizens receive the rights to complain and sue if their aforementioned rights were violated. These are just a few examples of the effective work from the legislative sector.


The abolishing of some laws that could hinder citizens and the amending of laws that could benefit them as well as working on economic changes albeit confessions of slow economic development after lifting of economic sanctions can be said to be undeniable results.

The people should understand that there are many difficulties and challenges as the government has only been in office for one year, while it has been taking responsibility on fulfilling huge expectations of the people who are thirsty for changes, and conducting nation management.

The government was able to advise cutting down Ks 300 billion from the national budget for the benefit of the people and the nation while simultaneously suspending business and projects that have no potential in contributing to the nation’s economy.

The national budget always used to show budget deficit and debt. Only when the national budget is strong can the nation and its economy develop. For this reason, the government has been focusing on collecting tax to get for a stronger financial foundation.

The government formed the new Ministry of Ethnic Affairs as a Union Ministry which has long been required for ethnic unity and development. Education and Health Sector are also important for country which is the basic of the future of the country.

Which is why, the government increased the budget for these two sectors.

13% of state budget will be used and promoting the rural health sector and building of the schools are included.

Such undertakings will raise the country’s socio-economic condition that lagged behind other neighbouring countries.

It is remarkable success to be able to hold the 21 century Panglong Conference that can lead to the securing of peace which people have longed for many years. The government has tried the Union Peace Conference to be all inclusive.

The peace process implemented by the incumbent government is distinct and quite different from that done by the previous governments. Whereas Peace and tranquility is being planted in the country the housing projects are also carried out for the people of every walks of life.

In founding the better future of the country it needs helps from the people. Only the government and Hluttaws alone cannot achieve everything without the relentless participation of the people. Private businessmen are also welcome to take part in the nation building process.

And people should not harbor the attitude that signifies the fact that the government is the sole institution to be accountable for all national duties. It is not a spirit of democracy. People’s strength is vital in building a prosperous country.

A significant political change occurs in Myanmar after experiencing the plight for 50 years.

It turns one year that the NLD party had won the 2015 multi-party general election with landslide victory and formed the government and carried out national duties. Many has been accomplished by the incumbent government, but there may be a lot left to go further to attain absolute satisfactory. The transfer of power from the previous government to the incumbent government was a smooth process and the presence of good potential in the country under the civilian government is a good sign for the people.

People should participate in marching to the target together with the incumbent government keeping the union spirit and to overcome the obstacle and difficulties exercising the democratic practices.

Ref; The Global New Light of Myanmar

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