Brave actions of Burmese people must be backed up by the global community

“The brave act of people power on the streets of Burma gives hope for democracy in Burma, but their efforts must be supported by the global community,” Council of Trade Unions president Ross Wilson said today.

“New Zealanders need to stand alongside the people of Burma in their struggle for democracy and human rights, and the New Zealand government must declare in the strongest possible terms its opposition to the repressive regime in Burma.”

“At it’s most recent meeting, the CTU national council called for an end to the regime’s blatant attempt to intimidate and silence those who are engaged in peaceful promotion of democracy and human rights in Burma, and renewed our call for Burma’s military to release all political prisoners, including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.”

“The just imposed military curfew in two main cities is a further sign of the intolerance the military has for the people of Burma.”

“As the UN General Assembly meets this week, we call on all governments to exert pressure on the Burmese junta so we do not see a repeat of the 1988 state violence against democracy campaigners.”

The CTU is encouraging all unions and New Zealanders to support public actions on Burma including the Aotea Square rally in Auckland this Saturday at 2pm, Ross Wilson said.