Nai Htaw Mon is the chairperson of Mon State-based New Mon State Party (NMSP). Founded in 1958, the NMSP took up arms and fought against Burma's army until 15 years ago when the group entered a cease-fire agreement with the military regime.
The NMSP participated in the state-sponsored National Convention that focused on drafting a state constitution. However, in the latter part of the 14-year process it only sent observers to the convention after a disagreement with the regime regarding the proceedings of the constitution drafting process.
Like other ethnic armed groups, the NMSP faces pressure from the regime to transform its military wing into a border guard force (BGF).
While meeting on the Burma-Thailand border on Jan. 30, Mon National Day, Nai Htaw Mon discussed the organization's views and positions on the current political situation in Burma with THE IRRAWADDY.
Question: What is NMSP position on the 2010 election?
Answer: We have already said the constitution must be amended before we can think about the election. Otherwise, we won't accept it.
Q: What do you think of the regime's plan to transform your group into a BGF?
A: Our people don't agree with this plan and we have already told the regime we cannot accept it. However, we told the Burmese authorities that they could discuss it with us if they wanted to.
Q: What kind of pressure has the regime put on you in regard to becoming a BGF?
A: They haven't said anything yet. They just stay quiet.
Q: Do you think the regime will exercise similar pressure on you as it did in northern Burma? Do you think the regime will prepare for a military offensive against you?
A: I don't think anything unusual has happened in our area yet. I think the problem in the north might involve other elements. Not much new development has taken place here.
Q: Do you think the regime will actually hold the election?
A: I think the election is an exit strategy for the military so it will be held. I don't think the regime can move forward much longer without having some kind of constitution in place, which is why it is an exit for them. Though I think the regime will hold the election, I cannot say how and when it will happen.
Q: We have seen that the constitution doesn't guarantee ethnic rights. Which part of the constitution do you want to amend?
A: We mainly want to change whatever clauses don't meet democratic standards. In particular, we want to change the fact that 25 percent of parliament seats are reserved for the military and important positions will be controlled by the army. As for ethnic rights, since the constitution wasn't based on democratic principles, even if ethnic nationalities are granted self-autonomy, they won't enjoy many rights. We, the 13 ethnic groups, submitted a proposal to the National Convention but the regime didn't take it into consideration. For these reasons we cannot accept this constitution. If we change it we have to change what I just mentioned.
Q: What do you want to say about the Shan, Wa and Kokang nationalities living in northern Burma?
A: We are in the same situation. I think our goal is self-determination with all ethnic groups living together in genuine federal union. To reach that goal, all ethnic people must unite. If we can keep cooperating and working together in unity for recognition of ethnic rights, we will achieve what we are aiming for.
Q: What kinds of human rights violations does the regime commit most in Mon State?
A: The cease-fire has been in effect in Mon State for about 15 years. Apart from more of the regime's troops deploying in our region, I don't think much has happened. As for human rights abuses, they will go on as long as there is military rule. This is normal.
Q: How many more regime troops have deployed in Mon State?
A: Not so many, but they have stationed themselves in more places.
Q: Does the NMSP army have any plan to fight back?
A: It depends on the political situation. We would love it if the regime wants to solve problems through dialogue, which is what we have been trying for. If the regime wants to use force, however, we will have to resist by any possible means.
Q: I heard you were talking about the US government's policy in your Mon National Day speech. What do you think of the US sanctions against the regime?
A: If the US policy supports dialogue, we will welcome it. If not, we will take another position. I cannot say much about it yet as we haven't finished studying it in detail. In my opinion, if the US exercises pressure that leads the regime towards the dialogue table, we will be in favor of the new policy.
Q: The UN's attempt at mediating to resolve Burma's political impasse has not been successful despite several visits by UN envoys Razali and Gambari. What do you think of this?
A: Well ... the UN can't interfere in a country's internal affairs at any level, which is why its attempts haven't brought any tangible result.
Q: What do you think of Aung San Suu Kyi and the NLD?
A: The NLD won the last election and we welcomed its victory. As for Aung San Suu Kyi, people have accepted her leadership.
Q: Do you trust Suu Kyi and the NLD?
A: We trust them regarding Burmese matters, but as regards ethnic affairs that is another story.
Q: You mean you don't trust Suu Kyi's intentions?
A: It depends on what she does. She is a powerful leader for the people of Burma and the Burmese community. We acknowledge that. But, I cannot say on behalf of all ethnic nationalities that we have the same views toward her as a Burmese. It depends on what she really does. If she gains the acceptance of the ethnic people, she can take a leadership role.
Q: Do you trust Snr-Gen Than Shwe?
A: He is serving his country. If he works for ethnic rights and democracy, people will welcome him. Otherwise, we cannot accept him.
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