Burma has been governed by a military dictatorship for 45 years.  As a consequence of military rule, Burma has become one of the poorest and least developed countries in the world.  The people of Burma have suffered tremendous hardships in the areas of education, health and social welfare.

In 1974, the military junta adopted the ‘Burmese way to Socialism’.  Today they are marching towards the ‘Burmese way to Democracy’, in order to cling on to power and enslave their own citizens.  In doing so, they have patronized the 14 year National Convention, in order to draft a constitution that is opposed to the will of the general public.

Simultaneously, the military arrested Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and others who defend the interests of their people. The military level allegations which lead to long-term imprisonments. However the reality is that these individuals have been working tirelessly for peace, justice, and development in Burma

Since August 21, the current military regime has detained 17 leaders of ‘the 88 Generation Students’ including Ko Min Ko Naing and Ko Ko Gyi.  ‘The 88 Generation Students’ are aligned with the people and are working for a peaceful resolution to the political and economic problems the people of Burma are encountering.  In particular, they are making efforts to change the dictatorial system that is the root cause of impoverishment in the country.

Meanwhile, the 88 Generation Students’ leaders have suffered cruel torture by the regime. The regime has efficiently implicated them through numerous allegations.  We trust the people of Burma and the international community will not tolerate such obvious political aggressions undertaken by the SPDC.

We, ‘the 88 Generation Students’, affirm that we will valiantly face any kind of arrest and torture, and move forward, alongside monks, students, workers, peasants, and the entire nation, to overthrow the military dictatorship in Burma.

‘The 88 Generation Students’